    [Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 43, Number 36 (Monday, September 10, 2007)]
    [Page 1163]
    [Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    <R04>
    Statement on Senator John W. Warner's Decision Not To Seek Reelection

    August 31, 2007

        John Warner is one of the most dedicated Senators in American
    history. Five Presidents have relied on his steady judgment, wise
    counsel, and candid advice. With Senator Warner's retirement, the Senate
    will lose one of its most independent and widely respected voices, and
    the Commonwealth of Virginia will lose one of its fiercest advocates.

        John Warner has served our country in many roles throughout his
    distinguished career, always putting the American people's needs first.
    He enlisted in the Navy shortly before his 18th birthday and chose to
    interrupt his law studies to commence a second tour of active military
    duty as an officer in the Marine Corps, volunteering for duty in Korea.
    He went on to practice law, serve as an Assistant U.S. Attorney, and
    serve as Secretary of the Navy before his election to the Senate. Our
    military had no greater friend than Senator Warner during his service as
    chairman of the Senate Committee on Armed Forces.

        I look forward to working with Senator Warner in the coming months
    as we assess the situation in Iraq and pursue policies to keep our
    country safe.

        John Warner is a true statesman. Laura and I wish Senator Warner,
    his wife, Jeanne, and the rest of his family all the best.

    Note: This item was not received in time for publication in the
    appropriate issue.