Presidential News and Speeches

Pursuant to the authority and conditions contained in section 634(d) of the Department of State, Foreign Operations and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2008 (Div. J, Public Law 110 161), I hereby determine and certify that it is important to the national security interests of the United States to waive the provisions of section 1003 of the Anti Terrorism Act of 1987, Public Law 100 204.

President Bush on Wednesday said, "We spent a lot of time talking about the neighborhood. But before I get to a couple of countries in the neighborhood, I do want to say, one, how much I appreciate your firm stance against extremists and radicals who use the tactics of murder and intimidation to advance their ideologies. Singapore is a very strong ally in the war against the extremists."

President George W. Bush today announced that he has named one individual to serve in his Administration: William B. Wichterman.

The United States is concerned by reports that Egypt's April 8 local council elections were characterized by widespread electoral violations. We have been troubled by the reports of harassment, detainment, and arrests of opposition candidates and campaign workers in the lead up to the elections, as well as the allegations that large numbers of opposition candidates were prevented from registering.

President Bush on Wednesday said, "I'm about to sign a piece of legislation that will help give prisoners across America a second chance for a better life. This bill is going to support the caring men and women who help America's prisoners find renewal and hope."

MRS. BUSH: We are replacing the Scarlet Oak that fell earlier -- actually, I think it was before Christmas, that was planted by Benjamin Harrison, I think in 1898, I believe, is when it was planted. And so now we're replacing it. And we've invited descendants of Benjamin Harrison to come help us plant it. So we see all the family members over here, and three -- two great-great-grandsons, and one great-grandson of Benjamin Harrison who are here with us.

For Over A Year, The President And His Administration Have Reached Out To The House And Senate Leadership To Build A Bipartisan Path For Consideration Of The Agreement:

For 25 years, Drug Abuse Resistance Education (D.A.R.E.) has given school children across America an opportunity to gain the skills they need to avoid involvement in drugs, gangs, and violence. On National D.A.R.E Day, we recognize those individuals who teach America's children how to resist peer pressure and live productive, drug-free, and violence-free lives.

America is blessed to have brave men and women willing to step forward to defend our freedoms and keep us safe. The members of the United States Armed Forces have proudly held fast against determined and ruthless enemies, protected our citizens from harm, and freed millions from oppression. On National Former Prisoner of War Recognition Day, we pay tribute to the courageous and selfless individuals who were taken captive while serving the cause of peace and securing liberty across the globe.

President Bush on Tuesday said, "The Medal of Honor is America's highest decoration for military valor. Over the years, many who have received the medal have given their lives in the action that earned it. The name of Petty Officer Michael Anthony Monsoor will now be among them. In September 2006, Michael laid down his life for his brothers in arms. Today, we remember the life of this faithful Navy SEAL. And on behalf of a grateful nation, we will present Michael Monsoor's family with the Medal of Honor that he earned."

With a view to receiving the advice and consent of the Senate to ratification, I transmit herewith the amendments to the Constitution and Convention of the International Telecommunication Union (Geneva, 1992), as amended by the Plenipotentiary Conference (Kyoto, 1994) and the Plenipotentiary Conference (Marrakesh, 2002), together with the declarations and reservations by the United States, all as contained in the Final Acts of the Plenipotentiary Conference (Antalya, 2006). I transmit also, for the information of the Senate, the report of the Department of State concerning the amendments.

President Bush on Tuesday said, "I just had a fascinating opportunity to discuss Afghanistan with eight governors. I started off the meeting by telling them I was a governor once. And... they were then telling me their stories, their concerns. First of all, they universally thanked the American people for standing with them as this new democracy takes hold."

I am pleased to transmit legislation and supporting documents to implement the United States-Colombia Trade Promotion Agreement (the "Agreement"). The Agreement represents an historic development in our relations with Colombia, which has shown its commitment to advancing democracy, protecting human rights, and promoting economic opportunity. Colombia's importance as a steadfast strategic partner of the United States was recognized by President Clinton's support for an appropriation in 2000 to provide funding for Plan Colombia, and my Administration has continued to stand with Colombia as it confronts violence, terror, and drug traffickers.

President Bush on Monday said, "Winning requires very strong leadership -- that's what it takes. After eight years of welcoming national champs there's always one common denominator, and that is it requires a strong leader to motivate people toward a common goal. And that's exactly what you have in Coach Les Miles. ...I appreciate you understanding that once you're a champ on the field, means you have a responsibility to be a champ off the field, as well."

President George W. Bush today announced his intention to nominate one individual, appoint eighteen individuals, and designate one individual to serve in his Administration.

Nomination sent to the Senate: Peter William Bodde.

President Bush on Monday said, "In a few minutes, I will sign a letter to Congress that will transmit legislation implementing the United States' free trade agreement with Colombia. This agreement will advance America's national security interests in a critical region. It will strengthen a courageous ally in our hemisphere. It will help America's economy and America's workers at a vital time. It deserves bipartisan support from the United States Congress."

President Bush on Monday said, "I just had a fascinating discussion with fellow citizens who happen to be small business owners, people who run small businesses. And I'm talking about a variety of small businesses. We got a meat packer, an apple processor, we've got a grinder, a large equipment manufacturer, education man. We got a lot of folks from different backgrounds and different states, all of whom were talking about the effects of the pro-growth economic package that was passed by the Congress and how that package is causing them to make capital investments that they might not have made in the year 2008."

President Bush Signs Letter To Send The United States-Colombia Free Trade Agreement Implementing Legislation To Congress Agreement Will Advance National Security And Open Markets For U.S. Workers

Laura and I are saddened by the death of our friend, Charlton Heston. Charlton Heston was one of the most successful actors in movie history and a strong advocate for liberty.