[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 39, Number 21 (Monday, May 26, 2003)]
[Pages 644-645]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Remarks Announcing the Nomination of Joshua Bolten To Be Director of the 
Office of Management and Budget

May 22, 2003

    The President. Good morning. The Office of Management and Budget is 
one of the most important agencies in our Government. This agency has a 
central responsibility for implementing the full range of this 
administration's agenda, from growing the economy and creating jobs to 
ensuring a strong national defense and a secure homeland. I depend on 
the OMB Director to keep a watchful eye on the taxpayers' money, to 
reform the operations of our Government, to make them better managed, 
more accountable, and driven by results.
    I also depend on the Director to provide honest and thorough 
information on the state of our budget and to offer sound advice as we 
carry out our national priorities. For this essential position, today I 
nominate one of my closest and most trusted advisers, Joshua Bolten.
    For more than 4 years, first in Austin and now in Washington, I have 
counted on Josh for his knowledge, his clear thinking, and his sound 
judgment. From his work in the private sector and practice of law in the 
investment banking world, Josh has a broad perspective on commerce and 
international economy. From his experience in both the executive branch 
and on Capitol Hill, Josh Bolten understands the workings of the Federal 
Government as well as anybody in this city. And most important, from his 
tenure as my Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy, Josh knows the philosophy 
and priorities of my administration.
    Josh Bolten is brilliant. He is tireless. He remains calm in any 
storm. He is a man of complete integrity. No member of my staff has 
served with greater skill or earned greater respect amongst his 
colleagues than Josh Bolten. I'm honored that he's agreed to join my 
Cabinet.

[[Page 645]]

    When confirmed by the Senate, Josh will take over from a superb 
public servant, Mitch Daniels. Mitch has watched over the budget with a 
sharp eye and the common sense of a strong executive. He's insisted on 
good management of the people's money. He's done his job with great 
energy and consistent good humor. I have a feeling that Mitch's days in 
the public service are not over. I want to thank Mitch for serving our 
country so very well.
    And now I'm pleased to introduce my choice as the next Director of 
the Office of Management and Budget, Josh Bolten.

[At this point, Joshua Bolten made brief remarks.]

    The President. Thank you all. Thank you all very much.

Note: The President spoke at 9:58 a.m. in the Oval Office at the White 
House. The transcript released by the Office of the Press Secretary also 
included the remarks of Director-designate Bolten.