[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 37, Number 50 (Monday, December 17, 2001)]
[Page 1782]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Statement on Representative Richard K. Armey's Decision Not To Seek 
Reelection

December 12, 2001

    The country, the people of Texas, and the Congress have been well 
served by Congressman Dick Armey. As a fellow Texan, I know his 
effective leadership firsthand.
    When he was a sophomore lawmaker, and a member of the then minority 
party, Dick Armey proved his mettle by authoring and passing a major 
base closure initiative that was signed into law. As majority leader, he 
has skillfully guided legislation through Congress; his dedication to 
reforming Government, lowering taxes, and simplifying the tax system has 
deeply influenced public policy.
    I know Dick's dedication to public service will remain strong, even 
during his retirement. His sense of humor, candor, and leadership will 
be sorely missed in Congress.
    Laura and I extend our thanks to Dick, his wife, Susan, and their 
family, and we wish each of them the best in the future.