    [Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 38, Number 9 (Monday, March 4, 2002)]
    [Pages 287-288]
    [Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    <R04>
    Remarks to the National Governors' Association Dinner

    February 24, 2002

        Ladies and gentlemen, Laura and I would like to welcome you all to
    the White House. It's good to see a lot of our friends, and we're so
    honored you are here.
        Tonight is a special night for us, but it's no more special--but
    especially special for three people. Three birthday people: Governor
    Siegelman, Governor Ryan, and Governor Swift. Happy birthday.
        I also want to welcome members of my Cabinet and my team who are
    here. I've assembled a fabulous team. They bring a lot of experience to
    their jobs. I'm really proud of the Cabinet members who have been
    Governors: Tommy Thompson, John Ashcroft, Tom Ridge, and Christie
    Whitman. They understand firsthand the issues that Governors face every
    day. And my administration is

    [[Page 288]]

    working hard to make sure the Federal Government is more responsive to
    your needs.
        Since we met last, America has been attacked and has been wounded by
    terrorists. We've been inspired by acts of courage and generosity. And
    this Nation has confirmed a deep sense of national purpose. We're
    determined to protect the American people by fighting terror wherever it
    is found. This cause will take years, require the patience of the
    American people, and it will require participation of all levels of
    government.
        And we've made a very good beginning. Our military has routed the
    Taliban, and we're hunting down Al Qaida. We've worked to take
    preventive measures to stop any attack, and we're prepared to respond
    should they come.
        The Governors have taken threats seriously, and you've acted quickly
    to confront them. And our Nation is grateful.
        At every stage of this crisis, I have benefited from your counsel.
    I've been inspired by your leadership. I was touched by my friend George
    Pataki's calm demeanor during the crisis in New York. I know our Nation
    needs to develop a national strategy to protect the homeland, and that's
    why I picked a fellow Governor, a former Governor, and a good friend,
    Tom Ridge, to lead the effort.
        America's Governors have displayed leadership at a time when history
    demanded it. And so it's with deep respect and gratitude that I offer
    this toast to the Governors of the United States.
        God bless.

    Note: The President spoke at 8:10 p.m. in the State Dining Room at the
    White House. In his remarks, he referred to Gov. Don Siegelman of
    Alabama; Gov. George F. Ryan of Illinois; Gov. Jane Swift of
    Massachusetts; and Gov. George E. Pataki of New York. This transcript
    was released by the Office of the Press Secretary on February 25.