Thank you all. Madam Speaker, Vice President Cheney, Members of Congress, distinguished guests, and fellow citizens: Seven years have passed since I first stood before you at this rostrum. In that time, our country has been tested in ways none of us could have imagined. We faced hard decisions about peace and war, rising competition in the world economy, and the health and welfare of our citizens. These issues call for vigorous debate, and I think it's fair to say, we've answered the call. [ ] Yet history will record that amid our differences, we acted with purpose, and together we showed the world the power and resilience of American self-government. All of us were sent to Washington to carry out the people's business. That is the purpose of this body. It is the meaning of our oath. It remains our charge to keep. The actions of the 110th Congress will affect the security and prosperity of our Nation long after this session has ended. In this election year, let us show our fellow Americans that we recognize our responsibilities and are determined to meet them. Let us show them that Republicans and Democrats can compete for votes and cooperate for results at the same time. From expanding opportunity to protecting our country, we've made good progress. Yet we have unfinished business before us, and the American people expect us to get it done. In the work ahead, we must be guided by the philosophy that made our Nation great. As Americans, we believe in the power of individuals to determine their destiny and shape the course of history. We believe that the most reliable guide for our country is the collective wisdom of ordinary citizens. And so in all we do, we must trust in the ability of free peoples to make wise decisions and empower them to improve their lives for their futures. To build a prosperous future, we must trust people with their own money and empower them to grow our economy. As we meet tonight, our economy is undergoing a period of uncertainty. America has added jobs for a record 52 straight months, but jobs are now growing at a slower pace. Wages are up, but so are prices for food and gas. Exports are rising, but the housing market has declined. At kitchen tables across our country, there is a concern about our economic future. In the long run, Americans can be confident about our economic growth. But in the short run, we can all see that that growth is slowing. So last week, my administration reached agreement with Speaker Pelosi and Republican Leader Boehner on a robust growth package that includes tax relief for individuals and families and incentives for business investment. The temptation will be to load up the bill. That would delay it or derail it, and neither option is acceptable. This is a good agreement that will keep our economy growing and our people working, and this Congress must pass it as soon as possible. We have other work to do on taxes. Unless Congress acts, most of the tax relief we've delivered over the past 7 years will be taken away. Some in Washington argue that letting tax relief expire is not a tax increase. Try explaining that to 116 million American taxpayers who would see their taxes rise by an average of $1,800. Others have said they would personally be happy to pay higher taxes. I welcome their enthusiasm. I'm pleased to report that the IRS accepts both checks and money orders. [ ] Most Americans think their taxes are high enough. With all the other pressures on their finances, American families should not have to worry about their Federal Government taking a bigger bite out of their paychecks. There's only one way to eliminate this uncertainty: Make the tax relief permanent. And Members of Congress should know, if any bill raises taxes reaches my desk, I will veto it. Just as we trust Americans with their own money, we need to earn their trust by spending their tax dollars wisely. Next week, I'll send you a budget that terminates or substantially reduces 151 wasteful or bloated programs, totaling more than $18 billion. The budget that I will submit will keep America on track for a surplus in 2012. American families have to balance their budgets; so should their Government. The people's trust in their Government is undermined by congressional earmarks, special interest projects that are often snuck in at the last minute, without discussion or debate. Last year, I asked you to voluntarily cut the number and cost of earmarks in half. I also asked you to stop slipping earmarks into committee reports that never even come to a vote. Unfortunately, neither goal was met. So this time, if you send me an appropriations bill that does not cut the number and cost of earmarks in half, I'll send it back to you with my veto. And tomorrow I will issue an Executive order that directs Federal agencies to ignore any future earmark that is not voted on by Congress. If these items are truly worth funding, Congress should debate them in the open and hold a public vote. Our shared responsibilities extend beyond matters of taxes and spending. On housing, we must trust Americans with the responsibility of homeownership and empower them to weather turbulent times in the housing market. My administration brought together the HOPE NOW Alliance, which is helping many struggling homeowners avoid foreclosure. And Congress can help even more. Tonight I ask you to pass legislation to reform Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, modernize the Federal Housing Administration, and allow State housing agencies to issue tax-free bonds to help homeowners refinance their mortgages. These are difficult times for many American families, and by taking these steps, we can help more of them keep their homes. To build a future of quality health care, we must trust patients and doctors to make medical decisions and empower them with better information and better options. We share a common goal: making health care more affordable and accessible for all Americans. The best way to achieve that goal is by expanding consumer choice, not Government control. So I have proposed ending the bias in the Tax Code against those who do not get their health insurance through their employer. This one reform would put private coverage within reach for millions, and I call on the Congress to pass it this year. Congress must also expand health savings accounts, create association health plans for small businesses, promote health information technology, and confront the epidemic of junk medical lawsuits. With all these steps, we will ensure that decisions about your medical care are made in the privacy of your doctor's office, not in the Halls of Congress. On education, we must trust students to learn, if given the chance, and empower parents to demand results from our schools. In neighborhoods across our country, there are boys and girls with dreams, and a decent education is their only hope of achieving them. Six years ago, we came together to pass the No Child Left Behind Act, and today, no one can deny its results. Last year, fourth and eighth graders achieved the highest math scores on record. Reading scores are on the rise. African American and Hispanic students posted alltime highs. Now we must work together to increase accountability, add flexibilities for States and districts, reduce the number of high school dropouts, provide extra help for struggling schools. Members of Congress, the No Child Left Behind Act is a bipartisan achievement. It is succeeding, and we owe it to America's children, their parents, and their teachers to strengthen this good law. We must also do more to help children when their schools do not measure up. Thanks to the DC Opportunity Scholarships you approved, more than 2,600 of the poorest children in our Nation's Capital have found new hope at a faith-based or other nonpublic school. Sadly, these schools are disappearing at an alarming rate in many of America's inner cities. So I will convene a White House summit aimed at strengthening these lifelines of learning. And to open the doors of these schools to more children, I ask you to support a new $300 million program called Pell Grants for Kids. We have seen how Pell grants help low-income college students realize their full potential. Together, we've expanded the size and reach of these grants. Now let us apply the same spirit to help liberate poor children trapped in failing public schools. On trade, we must trust American workers to compete with anyone in the world and empower them by opening up new markets overseas. Today, our economic growth increasingly depends on our ability to sell American goods and crops and services all over the world. So we're working to break down barriers to trade and investment wherever we can. We're working for a successful Doha round of trade talks, and we must complete a good agreement this year. At the same time, we're pursuing opportunities to open up new markets by passing free trade agreements. I thank the Congress for approving a good agreement with Peru. And now I ask you to approve agreements with Colombia and Panama and South Korea. Many products from these nations now enter America duty free, yet many of our products face steep tariffs in their markets. These agreements will level the playing field. They will give us better access to nearly 100 million customers. They will support good jobs for the finest workers in the world, those whose products say "Made in the U.S.A." These agreements also promote America's strategic interests. The first agreement that will come before you is with Colombia, a friend of America that is confronting violence and terror and fighting drug traffickers. If we fail to pass this agreement, we will embolden the purveyors of false populism in our hemisphere. So we must come together, pass this agreement, and show our neighbors in the region that democracy leads to a better life. Trade brings better jobs and better choices and better prices. Yet for some Americans, trade can mean losing a job, and the Federal Government has a responsibility to help. I ask Congress to reauthorize and reform trade adjustment assistance so we can help these displaced workers learn new skills and find new jobs. To build a future of energy security, we must trust in the creative genius of American researchers and entrepreneurs and empower them to pioneer a new generation of clean energy technology. Our security, our prosperity, and our environment all require reducing our dependence on oil. Last year, I asked you to pass legislation to reduce oil consumption over the next decade, and you responded. Together, we should take the next steps. Let us fund new technologies that can generate coal power while capturing carbon emissions. Let us increase the use of renewable power and emissions-free nuclear power. Let us continue investing in advanced battery technology and renewable fuels to power the cars and trucks of the future. Let us create a new international clean technology fund, which will help developing nations like India and China make a greater use of clean energy sources. And let us complete an international agreement that has the potential to slow, stop, and eventually reverse the growth of greenhouse gases. This agreement will be effective only if it includes commitments by every major economy and gives none a free ride. The United States is committed to strengthening our energy security and confronting global climate change. And the best way to meet these goals is for America to continue leading the way toward the development of cleaner and more energy efficient technology. To keep America competitive into the future, we must trust in the skill of our scientists and engineers and empower them to pursue the breakthroughs of tomorrow. Last year, Congress passed legislation supporting the American Competitiveness Initiative, but never followed through with the funding. This funding is essential to keeping our scientific edge. So I ask Congress to double Federal support for critical basic research in the physical sciences and ensure America remains the most dynamic nation on Earth. On matters of life and science, we must trust in the innovative spirit of medical researchers and empower them to discover new treatments while respecting moral boundaries. In November, we witnessed a landmark achievement when scientists discovered a way to reprogram adult skin cells to act like embryonic stem cells. This breakthrough has the potential to move us beyond the divisive debates of the past by extending the frontiers of medicine without the destruction of human life. So we're expanding funding for this type of ethical medical research. And as we explore promising avenues of research, we must also ensure that all life is treated with the dignity it deserves. And so I call on Congress to pass legislation that bans unethical practices, such as the buying, selling, patenting, or cloning of human life. On matters of justice, we must trust in the wisdom of our Founders and empower judges who understand that the Constitution means what it says. I've submitted judicial nominees who will rule by the letter of the law, not the whim of the gavel. Many of these nominees are being unfairly delayed. They are worthy of confirmation, and the Senate should give each of them a prompt up-or-down vote. In communities across our land, we must trust in the good heart of the American people and empower them to serve their neighbors in need. Over the past 7 years, more of our fellow citizens have discovered that the pursuit of happiness leads to the path of service. Americans have volunteered in record numbers. Charitable donations are higher than ever. Faith-based groups are bringing hope to pockets of despair, with newfound support from the Federal Government. And to help guarantee equal treatment of faith-based organizations when they compete for Federal funds, I ask you to permanently extend charitable choice. Tonight the armies of compassion continue the march to a new day in the Gulf Coast. America honors the strength and resilience of the people of this region. We reaffirm our pledge to help them build stronger and better than before. And tonight I'm pleased to announce that in April, we will host this year's North American Summit of Canada, Mexico, and the United States in the great city of New Orleans. There are two other pressing challenges that I've raised repeatedly before this body and that this body has failed to address: entitlement spending and immigration. Every Member in this Chamber knows that spending on entitlement programs like Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid is growing faster than we can afford. We all know the painful choices ahead if America stays on this path: massive tax increases, sudden and drastic cuts in benefits, or crippling deficits. I've laid out proposals to reform these programs. Now I ask Members of Congress to offer your proposals and come up with a bipartisan solution to save these vital programs for our children and our grandchildren. The other pressing challenge is immigration. America needs to secure our borders, and with your help, my administration is taking steps to do so. We're increasing worksite enforcement, deploying fences and advanced technologies to stop illegal crossings. We've effectively ended the policy of catch-and-release at the border, and by the end of this year, we will have doubled the number of Border Patrol agents. Yet we also need to acknowledge that we will never fully secure our border until we create a lawful way for foreign workers to come here and support our economy. This will take pressure off the border and allow law enforcement to concentrate on those who mean us harm. We must also find a sensible and humane way to deal with people here illegally. Illegal immigration is complicated, but it can be resolved. And it must be resolved in a way that upholds both our laws and our highest ideals. This is the business of our Nation here at home. Yet building a prosperous future for our citizens also depends on confronting enemies abroad and advancing liberty in troubled regions of the world. Our foreign policy is based on a clear premise: We trust that people, when given the chance, will choose a future of freedom and peace. In the last 7 years, we have witnessed stirring moments in the history of liberty. We've seen citizens in Georgia and Ukraine stand up for their right to free and fair elections. We've seen people in Lebanon take to the streets to demand their independence. We've seen Afghans emerge from the tyranny of the Taliban and choose a new President and a new parliament. We've seen jubilant Iraqis holding up ink-stained fingers and celebrating their freedom. These images of liberty have inspired us. In the past 7 years, we've also seen the images that have sobered us. We've watched throngs of mourners in Lebanon and Pakistan carrying the caskets of beloved leaders taken by the assassin's hand. We've seen wedding guests in blood-soaked finery staggering from a hotel in Jordan, Afghans and Iraqis blown up in mosques and markets, and trains in London and Madrid ripped apart by bombs. On a clear September day, we saw thousands of our fellow citizens taken from us in an instant. These horrific images serve as a grim reminder: The advance of liberty is opposed by terrorists and extremists, evil men who despise freedom, despise America, and aim to subject millions to their violent rule. Since 9/11, we have taken the fight to these terrorists and extremists. We will stay on the offense, we will keep up the pressure, and we will deliver justice to our enemies. We are engaged in the defining ideological struggle of the 21st century. The terrorists oppose every principle of humanity and decency that we hold dear. Yet in this war on terror, there is one thing we and our enemies agree on: In the long run, men and women who are free to determine their own destinies will reject terror and refuse to live in tyranny. And that is why the terrorists are fighting to deny this choice to the people in Lebanon, Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and the Palestinian Territories. And that is why, for the security of America and the peace of the world, we are spreading the hope of freedom. In Afghanistan, America, our 25 NATO allies, and 15 partner nations are helping the Afghan people defend their freedom and rebuild their country. Thanks to the courage of these military and civilian personnel, a nation that was once a safe haven for Al Qaida is now a young democracy where boys and girls are going to school, new roads and hospitals are being built, and people are looking to the future with new hope. These successes must continue, so we're adding 3,200 marines to our forces in Afghanistan, where they will fight the terrorists and train the Afghan Army and police. Defeating the Taliban and Al Qaida is critical to our security, and I thank the Congress for supporting America's vital mission in Afghanistan. In Iraq, the terrorists and extremists are fighting to deny a proud people their liberty and fighting to establish safe havens for attacks across the world. One year ago, our enemies were succeeding in their efforts to plunge Iraq into chaos. So we reviewed our strategy and changed course. We launched a surge of American forces into Iraq. We gave our troops a new mission: work with the Iraqi forces to protect the Iraqi people, pursue the enemy in its strongholds, and deny the terrorists sanctuary anywhere in the country. The Iraqi people quickly realized that something dramatic had happened. Those who had worried that America was preparing to abandon them instead saw tens of thousands of American forces flowing into their country. They saw our forces moving into neighborhoods, clearing out the terrorists, and staying behind to ensure the enemy did not return. And they saw our troops, along with Provincial Reconstruction Teams that include Foreign Service officers and other skilled public servants, coming in to ensure that improved security was followed by improvements in daily life. Our military and civilians in Iraq are performing with courage and distinction, and they have the gratitude of our whole Nation. The Iraqis launched a surge of their own. In the fall of 2006, Sunni tribal leaders grew tired of Al Qaida's brutality, started a popular uprising called the Anbar Awakening. Over the past year, similar movements have spread across the country. And today, the grassroots surge includes more than 80,000 Iraqi citizens who are fighting the terrorists. The Government in Baghdad has stepped forward as well, adding more than 100,000 new Iraqi soldiers and police during the past year. While the enemy is still dangerous and more work remains, the American and Iraqi surges have achieved results few of us could have imagined just 1 year ago. When we met last year, many said that containing the violence was impossible. A year later, high-profile terrorist attacks are down, civilian deaths are down, sectarian killings are down. When we met last year, militia extremists—some armed and trained by Iran— were wreaking havoc in large areas of Iraq. A year later, coalition and Iraqi forces have killed or captured hundreds of militia fighters. And Iraqis of all backgrounds increasingly realize that defeating these militia fighters is critical to the future of their country. When we met last year, Al Qaida had sanctuaries in many areas of Iraq, and their leaders had just offered American forces safe passage out of the country. Today, it is Al Qaida that is searching for safe passage. They have been driven from many of the strongholds they once held. And over the past year, we've captured or killed thousands of extremists in Iraq, including hundreds of key Al Qaida leaders and operatives. Last month, Usama bin Laden released a tape in which he railed against Iraqi tribal leaders who have turned on Al Qaida and admitted that coalition forces are growing stronger in Iraq. Ladies and gentlemen, some may deny the surge is working, but among the terrorists there is no doubt. Al Qaida is on the run in Iraq, and this enemy will be defeated. When we met last year, our troop levels in Iraq were on the rise. Today, because of the progress just described, we are implementing a policy of return on success, and the surge forces we sent to Iraq are beginning to come home. This progress is a credit to the valor of our troops and the brilliance of their commanders. This evening I want to speak directly to our men and women on the frontlines. Soldiers and sailors, airmen, marines, and coastguardsmen: In the past year, you have done everything we've asked of you and more. Our Nation is grateful for your courage. We are proud of your accomplishments. And tonight in this hallowed Chamber, with the American people as our witness, we make you a solemn pledge: In the fight ahead, you will have all you need to protect our Nation. And I ask Congress to meet its responsibilities to these brave men and women by fully funding our troops. Our enemies in Iraq have been hit hard. They are not yet defeated, and we can still expect tough fighting ahead. Our objective in the coming year is to sustain and build on the gains we made in 2007 while transitioning to the next phase of our strategy. American troops are shifting from leading operations to partnering with Iraqi forces and, eventually, to a protective overwatch mission. As part of this transition, one Army brigade combat team and one Marine expeditionary unit have already come home and will not be replaced. In the coming months, four additional brigades and two Marine battalions will follow suit. Taken together, this means more than 20,000 of our troops are coming home. Any further drawdown of U.S. troops will be based on conditions in Iraq and the recommendations of our commanders. General Petraeus has warned that too fast a drawdown could result in, quote, "the disintegration of the Iraqi security forces, Al Qaida-Iraq regaining lost ground, and a marked increase in violence." Members of Congress, having come so far and achieved so much, we must not allow this to happen. In the coming year, we will work with Iraqi leaders as they build on the progress they're making toward political reconciliation. At the local level, Sunnis, Shi'a, and Kurds are beginning to come together to reclaim their communities and rebuild their lives. Progress in the Provinces must be matched by progress in Baghdad. We're seeing some encouraging signs. The national Government is sharing oil revenues with the Provinces. The parliament recently passed both a pension law and de-Ba'athification reform. They're now debating a Provincial powers law. The Iraqis still have a distance to travel, but after decades of dictatorship and the pain of sectarian violence, reconciliation is taking place, and the Iraqi people are taking control of their future. The mission in Iraq has been difficult and trying for our Nation, but it is in the vital interest of the United States that we succeed. A free Iraq will deny Al Qaida a safe haven. A free Iraq will show millions across the Middle East that a future of liberty is possible. A free Iraq will be a friend of America, a partner in fighting terror, and a source of stability in a dangerous part of the world. By contrast, a failed Iraq would embolden the extremists, strengthen Iran, and give terrorists a base from which to launch new attacks on our friends, our allies, and our homeland. The enemy has made its intentions clear. At a time when the momentum seemed to favor them, Al Qaida's top commander in Iraq declared that they will not rest until they have attacked us here in Washington. My fellow Americans, we will not rest either. We will not rest until this enemy has been defeated. We must do the difficult work today so that years from now, people will look back and say that this generation rose to the moment, prevailed in a tough fight, and left behind a more hopeful region and a safer America. We're also standing against the forces of extremism in the Holy Land, where we have new cause for hope. Palestinians have elected a President who recognizes that confronting terror is essential to achieving a state where his people can live in dignity and at peace with Israel. Israelis have leaders who recognize that a peaceful, democratic Palestinian state will be a source of lasting security. This month in Ramallah and Jerusalem, I assured leaders from both sides that America will do, and I will do, everything we can to help them achieve a peace agreement that defines a Palestinian state by the end of this year. The time has come for a Holy Land where a democratic Israel and a democratic Palestine live side by side in peace. We're also standing against the forces of extremism embodied by the regime in Tehran. Iran's rulers oppress a good and talented people. And wherever freedom advances in the Middle East, it seems the Iranian regime is there to oppose it. Iran is funding and training militia groups in Iraq, supporting Hizballah terrorists in Lebanon, and backing Hamas efforts to undermine peace in the Holy Land. Tehran is also developing ballistic missiles of increasing range and continues to develop its capability to enrich uranium, which could be used to create a nuclear weapon. Our message to the people of Iran is clear: We have no quarrel with you. We respect your traditions and your history. We look forward to the day when you have your freedom. Our message to the leaders of Iran is also clear: Verifiably suspend your nuclear enrichment so negotiations can begin. And to rejoin the community of nations, come clean about your nuclear intentions and past actions, stop your oppression at home, cease your support for terror abroad. But above all, know this: America will confront those who threaten our troops, we will stand by our allies, and we will defend our vital interests in the Persian Gulf. On the homefront, we will continue to take every lawful and effective measure to protect our country. This is our most solemn duty. We are grateful that there has not been another attack on our soil since 9/11. This is not for the lack of desire or effort on the part of the enemy. In the past 6 years, we've stopped numerous attacks, including a plot to fly a plane into the tallest building in Los Angeles and another to blow up passenger jets bound for America over the Atlantic. Dedicated men and women in our Government toil day and night to stop the terrorists from carrying out their plans. These good citizens are saving American lives, and everyone in this Chamber owes them our thanks. And we owe them something more; we owe them the tools they need to keep our people safe. And one of the most important tools we can give them is the ability to monitor terrorist communications. To protect America, we need to know who the terrorists are talking to, what they are saying, and what they're planning. Last year, Congress passed legislation to help us do that. Unfortunately, Congress set the legislations to expire on February the 1st. That means if you don't act by Friday, our ability to track terrorist threats would be weakened and our citizens will be in greater danger. Congress must ensure the flow of vital intelligence is not disrupted. Congress must pass liability protection for companies believed to have assisted in the efforts to defend America. We've had ample time for debate. The time to act is now. Protecting our Nation from the dangers of a new century requires more than good intelligence and a strong military. It also requires changing the conditions that breed resentment and allow extremists to prey on despair. So America is using its influence to build a freer, more hopeful, and more compassionate world. This is a reflection of our national interests; it is the calling of our conscience. America opposes genocide in Sudan. We support freedom in countries from Cuba and Zimbabwe to Belarus and Burma. America is leading the fight against global poverty with strong education initiatives and humanitarian assistance. We've also changed the way we deliver aid by launching the Millennium Challenge Account. This program strengthens democracy, transparency, and the rule of law in developing nations, and I ask you to fully fund this important initiative. America is leading the fight against global hunger. Today, more than half the world's food aid comes from the United States. And tonight I ask Congress to support an innovative proposal to provide food assistance by purchasing crops directly from farmers in the developing world, so we can build up local agriculture and help break the cycle of famine. America is leading the fight against disease. With your help, we're working to cut by half the number of malaria-related deaths in 15 African nations. And our Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief is treating 1.4 million people. We can bring healing and hope to many more. So I ask you to maintain the principles that have changed behavior and made this program a success. And I call on you to double our initial commitment to fighting HIV/AIDS by approving an additional $30 billion over the next 5 years. America is a force for hope in the world because we are a compassionate people, and some of the most compassionate Americans are those who have stepped forward to protect us. We must keep faith with all who have risked life and limb so that we might live in freedom and peace. Over the past 7 years, we've increased funding for veterans by more than 95 percent. And as we increase funding, we must also reform our veterans system to meet the needs of a new war and a new generation. I call on Congress to enact the reforms recommended by Senator Bob Dole and Secretary Donna Shalala so we can improve the system of care for our wounded warriors and help them build lives of hope and promise and dignity. Our military families also sacrifice for America. They endure sleepless nights and the daily struggle of providing for children while a loved one is serving far from home. We have a responsibility to provide for them. So I ask you to join me in expanding their access to child care, creating new hiring preferences for military spouses across the Federal Government, and allowing our troops to transfer their unused education benefits to their spouses or children. Our military families serve our Nation, they inspire our Nation, and tonight our Nation honors them. The strength—the secret of our strength, the miracle of America, is that our greatness lies not in our Government, but in the spirit and determination of our people. When the Federal Convention met in Philadelphia in 1787, our Nation was bound by the Articles of Confederation, which began with the words, "We the undersigned delegates." When Gouverneur Morris was asked to draft the preamble to our new Constitution, he offered an important revision and opened with words that changed the course of our Nation and the history of the world: "We the people." By trusting the people, our Founders wagered that a great and noble nation could be built on the liberty that resides in the hearts of all men and women. By trusting the people, succeeding generations transformed our fragile, young democracy into the most powerful nation on Earth and a beacon of hope for millions. And so long as we continue to trust the people, our Nation will prosper, our liberty will be secure, and the state of our Union will remain strong. So tonight, with confidence in freedom's power and trust in the people, let us set forth to do their business. God bless America.
Thank you all. Madam Speaker, Vice President Cheney, Members of Congress, distinguished guests, and fellow citizens: Seven years have passed since I first stood before you at this rostrum. In that time, our country has been tested in ways none of us could have imagined. We faced hard decisions about peace and war, rising competition in the world economy, and the health and welfare of our citizens. These issues call for vigorous debate, and I think it is fair to say, we have answered the call. [ ] Yet history will record that amid our differences, we acted with purpose, and together we showed the world the power and resilience of American self-government. All of us were sent to Washington to carry out the people's business. That is the purpose of this body. It is the meaning of our oath. It remains our charge to keep. The actions of the 110th Congress will affect the security and prosperity of our Nation long after this session has ended. In this election year, let us show our fellow Americans that we recognize our responsibilities and are determined to meet them. Let us show them that Republicans and Democrats can compete for votes and cooperate for results at the same time. From expanding opportunity to protecting our country, we have made good progress. Yet we have unfinished business before us, and the American people expect us to get it done. In the work ahead, we must be guided by the philosophy that made our Nation great. As Americans, we believe in the power of individuals to determine their destiny and shape the course of history. We believe that the most reliable guide for our country is the collective wisdom of ordinary citizens. And so in all we do, we must trust in the ability of free peoples to make wise decisions and empower them to improve their lives for their futures. To build a prosperous future, we must trust people with their own money and empower them to grow our economy. As we meet tonight, our economy is undergoing a period of uncertainty. America has added jobs for a record 52 straight months, but jobs are now growing at a slower pace. Wages are up, but so are prices for food and gas. Exports are rising, but the housing market has declined. At kitchen tables across our country, there is a concern about our economic future. In the long run, Americans can be confident about our economic growth. But in the short run, we can all see that that growth is slowing. So last week, my administration reached agreement with Speaker Pelosi and Republican Leader Boehner on a robust growth package that includes tax relief for individuals and families and incentives for business investment. The temptation will be to load up the bill. That would delay it or derail it, and neither option is acceptable. This is a good agreement that will keep our economy growing and our people working, and this Congress must pass it as soon as possible. We have other work to do on taxes. Unless Congress acts, most of the tax relief we have delivered over the past 7 years will be taken away. Some in Washington argue that letting tax relief expire is not a tax increase. Try explaining that to 116 million American taxpayers who would see their taxes rise by an average of $1,800. Others have said they would personally be happy to pay higher taxes. I welcome their enthusiasm. I am pleased to report that the IRS accepts both checks and money orders. [ ] Most Americans think their taxes are high enough. With all the other pressures on their finances, American families should not have to worry about their Federal Government taking a bigger bite out of their paychecks. There is only one way to eliminate this uncertainty: Make the tax relief permanent. And Members of Congress should know, if any bill raises taxes reaches my desk, I will veto it. Just as we trust Americans with their own money, we need to earn their trust by spending their tax dollars wisely. Next week, I will send you a budget that terminates or substantially reduces 151 wasteful or bloated programs, totaling more than $18 billion. The budget that I will submit will keep America on track for a surplus in 2012. American families have to balance their budgets; so should their Government. The people's trust in their Government is undermined by congressional earmarks, special interest projects that are often snuck in at the last minute, without discussion or debate. Last year, I asked you to voluntarily cut the number and cost of earmarks in half. I also asked you to stop slipping earmarks into committee reports that never even come to a vote. Unfortunately, neither goal was met. So this time, if you send me an appropriations bill that does not cut the number and cost of earmarks in half, I will send it back to you with my veto. And tomorrow I will issue an Executive order that directs Federal agencies to ignore any future earmark that is not voted on by Congress. If these items are truly worth funding, Congress should debate them in the open and hold a public vote. Our shared responsibilities extend beyond matters of taxes and spending. On housing, we must trust Americans with the responsibility of homeownership and empower them to weather turbulent times in the housing market. My administration brought together the HOPE NOW Alliance, which is helping many struggling homeowners avoid foreclosure. And Congress can help even more. Tonight I ask you to pass legislation to reform Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, modernize the Federal Housing Administration, and allow State housing agencies to issue tax-free bonds to help homeowners refinance their mortgages. These are difficult times for many American families, and by taking these steps, we can help more of them keep their homes. To build a future of quality health care, we must trust patients and doctors to make medical decisions and empower them with better information and better options. We share a common goal: making health care more affordable and accessible for all Americans. The best way to achieve that goal is by expanding consumer choice, not Government control. So I have proposed ending the bias in the Tax Code against those who do not get their health insurance through their employer. This one reform would put private coverage within reach for millions, and I call on the Congress to pass it this year. Congress must also expand health savings accounts, create association health plans for small businesses, promote health information technology, and confront the epidemic of junk medical lawsuits. With all these steps, we will ensure that decisions about your medical care are made in the privacy of your doctor's office, not in the Halls of Congress. On education, we must trust students to learn, if given the chance, and empower parents to demand results from our schools. In neighborhoods across our country, there are boys and girls with dreams, and a decent education is their only hope of achieving them. Six years ago, we came together to pass the No Child Left Behind Act, and today, no one can deny its results. Last year, fourth and eighth graders achieved the highest math scores on record. Reading scores are on the rise. African American and Hispanic students posted alltime highs. Now we must work together to increase accountability, add flexibilities for States and districts, reduce the number of high school dropouts, provide extra help for struggling schools. Members of Congress, the No Child Left Behind Act is a bipartisan achievement. It is succeeding, and we owe it to America's children, their parents, and their teachers to strengthen this good law. We must also do more to help children when their schools do not measure up. Thanks to the DC Opportunity Scholarships you approved, more than 2,600 of the poorest children in our Nation's Capital have found new hope at a faith-based or other nonpublic school. Sadly, these schools are disappearing at an alarming rate in many of America's inner cities. So I will convene a White House summit aimed at strengthening these lifelines of learning. And to open the doors of these schools to more children, I ask you to support a new $300 million program called Pell Grants for Kids. We have seen how Pell grants help low-income college students realize their full potential. Together, we have expanded the size and reach of these grants. Now let us apply the same spirit to help liberate poor children trapped in failing public schools. On trade, we must trust American workers to compete with anyone in the world and empower them by opening up new markets overseas. Today, our economic growth increasingly depends on our ability to sell American goods and crops and services all over the world. So we are working to break down barriers to trade and investment wherever we can. We are working for a successful Doha round of trade talks, and we must complete a good agreement this year. At the same time, we are pursuing opportunities to open up new markets by passing free trade agreements. I thank the Congress for approving a good agreement with Peru. And now I ask you to approve agreements with Colombia and Panama and South Korea. Many products from these nations now enter America duty free, yet many of our products face steep tariffs in their markets. These agreements will level the playing field. They will give us better access to nearly 100 million customers. They will support good jobs for the finest workers in the world, those whose products say "Made in the YOU.S.A." These agreements also promote America's strategic interests. The first agreement that will come before you is with Colombia, a friend of America that is confronting violence and terror and fighting drug traffickers. If we fail to pass this agreement, we will embolden the purveyors of false populism in our hemisphere. So we must come together, pass this agreement, and show our neighbors in the region that democracy leads to a better life. Trade brings better jobs and better choices and better prices. Yet for some Americans, trade can mean losing a job, and the Federal Government has a responsibility to help. I ask Congress to reauthorize and reform trade adjustment assistance so we can help these displaced workers learn new skills and find new jobs. To build a future of energy security, we must trust in the creative genius of American researchers and entrepreneurs and empower them to pioneer a new generation of clean energy technology. Our security, our prosperity, and our environment all require reducing our dependence on oil. Last year, I asked you to pass legislation to reduce oil consumption over the next decade, and you responded. Together, we should take the next steps. Let us fund new technologies that can generate coal power while capturing carbon emissions. Let us increase the use of renewable power and emissions-free nuclear power. Let us continue investing in advanced battery technology and renewable fuels to power the cars and trucks of the future. Let us create a new international clean technology fund, which will help developing nations like India and China make a greater use of clean energy sources. And let us complete an international agreement that has the potential to slow, stop, and eventually reverse the growth of greenhouse gases. This agreement will be effective only if it includes commitments by every major economy and gives none a free ride. The United States is committed to strengthening our energy security and confronting global climate change. And the best way to meet these goals is for America to continue leading the way toward the development of cleaner and more energy efficient technology. To keep America competitive into the future, we must trust in the skill of our scientists and engineers and empower them to pursue the breakthroughs of tomorrow. Last year, Congress passed legislation supporting the American Competitiveness Initiative, but never followed through with the funding. This funding is essential to keeping our scientific edge. So I ask Congress to double Federal support for critical basic research in the physical sciences and ensure America remains the most dynamic nation on Earth. On matters of life and science, we must trust in the innovative spirit of medical researchers and empower them to discover new treatments while respecting moral boundaries. In November, we witnessed a landmark achievement when scientists discovered a way to reprogram adult skin cells to act like embryonic stem cells. This breakthrough has the potential to move us beyond the divisive debates of the past by extending the frontiers of medicine without the destruction of human life. So we are expanding funding for this type of ethical medical research. And as we explore promising avenues of research, we must also ensure that all life is treated with the dignity it deserves. And so I call on Congress to pass legislation that bans unethical practices, such as the buying, selling, patenting, or cloning of human life. On matters of justice, we must trust in the wisdom of our Founders and empower judges who understand that the Constitution means what it says. I have submitted judicial nominees who will rule by the letter of the law, not the whim of the gavel. Many of these nominees are being unfairly delayed. They are worthy of confirmation, and the Senate should give each of them a prompt up-or-down vote. In communities across our land, we must trust in the good heart of the American people and empower them to serve their neighbors in need. Over the past 7 years, more of our fellow citizens have discovered that the pursuit of happiness leads to the path of service. Americans have volunteered in record numbers. Charitable donations are higher than ever. Faith-based groups are bringing hope to pockets of despair, with newfound support from the Federal Government. And to help guarantee equal treatment of faith-based organizations when they compete for Federal funds, I ask you to permanently extend charitable choice. Tonight the armies of compassion continue the march to a new day in the Gulf Coast. America honors the strength and resilience of the people of this region. We reaffirm our pledge to help them build stronger and better than before. And tonight I am pleased to announce that in April, we will host this year's North American Summit of Canada, Mexico, and the United States in the great city of New Orleans. There are two other pressing challenges that I have raised repeatedly before this body and that this body has failed to address: entitlement spending and immigration. Every Member in this Chamber knows that spending on entitlement programs like Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid is growing faster than we can afford. We all know the painful choices ahead if America stays on this path: massive tax increases, sudden and drastic cuts in benefits, or crippling deficits. I have laid out proposals to reform these programs. Now I ask Members of Congress to offer your proposals and come up with a bipartisan solution to save these vital programs for our children and our grandchildren. The other pressing challenge is immigration. America needs to secure our borders, and with your help, my administration is taking steps to do so. We are increasing worksite enforcement, deploying fences and advanced technologies to stop illegal crossings. We have effectively ended the policy of catch-and-release at the border, and by the end of this year, we will have doubled the number of Border Patrol agents. Yet we also need to acknowledge that we will never fully secure our border until we create a lawful way for foreign workers to come here and support our economy. This will take pressure off the border and allow law enforcement to concentrate on those who mean us harm. We must also find a sensible and humane way to deal with people here illegally. Illegal immigration is complicated, but it can be resolved. And it must be resolved in a way that upholds both our laws and our highest ideals. This is the business of our Nation here at home. Yet building a prosperous future for our citizens also depends on confronting enemies abroad and advancing liberty in troubled regions of the world. Our foreign policy is based on a clear premise: We trust that people, when given the chance, will choose a future of freedom and peace. In the last 7 years, we have witnessed stirring moments in the history of liberty. We have seen citizens in Georgia and Ukraine stand up for their right to free and fair elections. We have seen people in Lebanon take to the streets to demand their independence. We have seen Afghans emerge from the tyranny of the Taliban and choose a new President and a new parliament. We have seen jubilant Iraqis holding up ink-stained fingers and celebrating their freedom. These images of liberty have inspired us. In the past 7 years, we have also seen the images that have sobered us. We have watched throngs of mourners in Lebanon and Pakistan carrying the caskets of beloved leaders taken by the assassin's hand. We have seen wedding guests in blood-soaked finery staggering from a hotel in Jordan, Afghans and Iraqis blown up in mosques and markets, and trains in London and Madrid ripped apart by bombs. On a clear September day, we saw thousands of our fellow citizens taken from us in an instant. These horrific images serve as a grim reminder: The advance of liberty is opposed by terrorists and extremists, evil men who despise freedom, despise America, and aim to subject millions to their violent rule. Since 9/11, we have taken the fight to these terrorists and extremists. We will stay on the offense, we will keep up the pressure, and we will deliver justice to our enemies. We are engaged in the defining ideological struggle of the 21st century. The terrorists oppose every principle of humanity and decency that we hold dear. Yet in this war on terror, there is one thing we and our enemies agree on: In the long run, men and women who are free to determine their own destinies will reject terror and refuse to live in tyranny. And that is why the terrorists are fighting to deny this choice to the people in Lebanon, Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and the Palestinian Territories. And that is why, for the security of America and the peace of the world, we are spreading the hope of freedom. In Afghanistan, America, our 25 NATO allies, and 15 partner nations are helping the Afghan people defend their freedom and rebuild their country. Thanks to the courage of these military and civilian personnel, a nation that was once a safe haven for Al Qaida is now a young democracy where boys and girls are going to school, new roads and hospitals are being built, and people are looking to the future with new hope. These successes must continue, so we are adding 3,200 marines to our forces in Afghanistan, where they will fight the terrorists and train the Afghan Army and police. Defeating the Taliban and Al Qaida is critical to our security, and I thank the Congress for supporting America's vital mission in Afghanistan. In Iraq, the terrorists and extremists are fighting to deny a proud people their liberty and fighting to establish safe havens for attacks across the world. One year ago, our enemies were succeeding in their efforts to plunge Iraq into chaos. So we reviewed our strategy and changed course. We launched a surge of American forces into Iraq. We gave our troops a new mission: work with the Iraqi forces to protect the Iraqi people, pursue the enemy in its strongholds, and deny the terrorists sanctuary anywhere in the country. The Iraqi people quickly realized that something dramatic had happened. Those who had worried that America was preparing to abandon them instead saw tens of thousands of American forces flowing into their country. They saw our forces moving into neighborhoods, clearing out the terrorists, and staying behind to ensure the enemy did not return. And they saw our troops, along with Provincial Reconstruction Teams that include Foreign Service officers and other skilled public servants, coming in to ensure that improved security was followed by improvements in daily life. Our military and civilians in Iraq are performing with courage and distinction, and they have the gratitude of our whole Nation. The Iraqis launched a surge of their own. In the fall of 2006, Sunni tribal leaders grew tired of Al Qaida's brutality, started a popular uprising called the Anbar Awakening. Over the past year, similar movements have spread across the country. And today, the grassroots surge includes more than 80,000 Iraqi citizens who are fighting the terrorists. The Government in Baghdad has stepped forward as well, adding more than 100,000 new Iraqi soldiers and police during the past year. While the enemy is still dangerous and more work remains, the American and Iraqi surges have achieved results few of us could have imagined just 1 year ago. When we met last year, many said that containing the violence was impossible. A year later, high-profile terrorist attacks are down, civilian deaths are down, sectarian killings are down. When we met last year, militia extremists—some armed and trained by Iran— were wreaking havoc in large areas of Iraq. A year later, coalition and Iraqi forces have killed or captured hundreds of militia fighters. And Iraqis of all backgrounds increasingly realize that defeating these militia fighters is critical to the future of their country. When we met last year, Al Qaida had sanctuaries in many areas of Iraq, and their leaders had just offered American forces safe passage out of the country. Today, it is Al Qaida that is searching for safe passage. They have been driven from many of the strongholds they once held. And over the past year, we have captured or killed thousands of extremists in Iraq, including hundreds of key Al Qaida leaders and operatives. Last month, Usama bin Laden released a tape in which he railed against Iraqi tribal leaders who have turned on Al Qaida and admitted that coalition forces are growing stronger in Iraq. Ladies and gentlemen, some may deny the surge is working, but among the terrorists there is no doubt. Al Qaida is on the run in Iraq, and this enemy will be defeated. When we met last year, our troop levels in Iraq were on the rise. Today, because of the progress just described, we are implementing a policy of return on success, and the surge forces we sent to Iraq are beginning to come home. This progress is a credit to the valor of our troops and the brilliance of their commanders. This evening I want to speak directly to our men and women on the frontlines. Soldiers and sailors, airmen, marines, and coastguardsmen: In the past year, you have done everything we have asked of you and more. Our Nation is grateful for your courage. We are proud of your accomplishments. And tonight in this hallowed Chamber, with the American people as our witness, we make you a solemn pledge: In the fight ahead, you will have all you need to protect our Nation. And I ask Congress to meet its responsibilities to these brave men and women by fully funding our troops. Our enemies in Iraq have been hit hard. They are not yet defeated, and we can still expect tough fighting ahead. Our objective in the coming year is to sustain and build on the gains we made in 2007 while transitioning to the next phase of our strategy. American troops are shifting from leading operations to partnering with Iraqi forces and, eventually, to a protective overwatch mission. As part of this transition, one Army brigade combat team and one Marine expeditionary unit have already come home and will not be replaced. In the coming months, four additional brigades and two Marine battalions will follow suit. Taken together, this means more than 20,000 of our troops are coming home. Any further drawdown of YOU.S. troops will be based on conditions in Iraq and the recommendations of our commanders. General Petraeus has warned that too fast a drawdown could result in, quote, "the disintegration of the Iraqi security forces, Al Qaida-Iraq regaining lost ground, and a marked increase in violence." Members of Congress, having come so far and achieved so much, we must not allow this to happen. In the coming year, we will work with Iraqi leaders as they build on the progress they are making toward political reconciliation. At the local level, Sunnis, Shi'a, and Kurds are beginning to come together to reclaim their communities and rebuild their lives. Progress in the Provinces must be matched by progress in Baghdad. We are seeing some encouraging signs. The national Government is sharing oil revenues with the Provinces. The parliament recently passed both a pension law and de-Ba'athification reform. They are now debating a Provincial powers law. The Iraqis still have a distance to travel, but after decades of dictatorship and the pain of sectarian violence, reconciliation is taking place, and the Iraqi people are taking control of their future. The mission in Iraq has been difficult and trying for our Nation, but it is in the vital interest of the United States that we succeed. A free Iraq will deny Al Qaida a safe haven. A free Iraq will show millions across the Middle East that a future of liberty is possible. A free Iraq will be a friend of America, a partner in fighting terror, and a source of stability in a dangerous part of the world. By contrast, a failed Iraq would embolden the extremists, strengthen Iran, and give terrorists a base from which to launch new attacks on our friends, our allies, and our homeland. The enemy has made its intentions clear. At a time when the momentum seemed to favor them, Al Qaida's top commander in Iraq declared that they will not rest until they have attacked us here in Washington. My fellow Americans, we will not rest either. We will not rest until this enemy has been defeated. We must do the difficult work today so that years from now, people will look back and say that this generation rose to the moment, prevailed in a tough fight, and left behind a more hopeful region and a safer America. We are also standing against the forces of extremism in the Holy Land, where we have new because for hope. Palestinians have elected a President who recognizes that confronting terror is essential to achieving a state where his people can live in dignity and at peace with Israel. Israelis have leaders who recognize that a peaceful, democratic Palestinian state will be a source of lasting security. This month in Ramallah and Jerusalem, I assured leaders from both sides that America will do, and I will do, everything we can to help them achieve a peace agreement that defines a Palestinian state by the end of this year. The time has come for a Holy Land where a democratic Israel and a democratic Palestine live side by side in peace. We are also standing against the forces of extremism embodied by the regime in Tehran. Iran's rulers oppress a good and talented people. And wherever freedom advances in the Middle East, it seems the Iranian regime is there to oppose it. Iran is funding and training militia groups in Iraq, supporting Hizballah terrorists in Lebanon, and backing Hamas efforts to undermine peace in the Holy Land. Tehran is also developing ballistic missiles of increasing range and continues to develop its capability to enrich uranium, which could be used to create a nuclear weapon. Our message to the people of Iran is clear: We have no quarrel with you. We respect your traditions and your history. We look forward to the day when you have your freedom. Our message to the leaders of Iran is also clear: Verifiably suspend your nuclear enrichment so negotiations can begin. And to rejoin the community of nations, come clean about your nuclear intentions and past actions, stop your oppression at home, cease your support for terror abroad. But above all, know this: America will confront those who threaten our troops, we will stand by our allies, and we will defend our vital interests in the Persian Gulf. On the homefront, we will continue to take every lawful and effective measure to protect our country. This is our most solemn duty. We are grateful that there has not been another attack on our soil since 9/11. This is not for the lack of desire or effort on the part of the enemy. In the past 6 years, we have stopped numerous attacks, including a plot to fly a plane into the tallest building in Los Angeles and another to blow up passenger jets bound for America over the Atlantic. Dedicated men and women in our Government toil day and night to stop the terrorists from carrying out their plans. These good citizens are saving American lives, and everyone in this Chamber owes them our thanks. And we owe them something more; we owe them the tools they need to keep our people safe. And one of the most important tools we can give them is the ability to monitor terrorist communications. To protect America, we need to know who the terrorists are talking to, what they are saying, and what they are planning. Last year, Congress passed legislation to help us do that. Unfortunately, Congress set the legislations to expire on February the 1st. That means if you do not act by Friday, our ability to track terrorist threats would be weakened and our citizens will be in greater danger. Congress must ensure the flow of vital intelligence is not disrupted. Congress must pass liability protection for companies believed to have assisted in the efforts to defend America. We have had ample time for debate. The time to act is now. Protecting our Nation from the dangers of a new century requires more than good intelligence and a strong military. It also requires changing the conditions that breed resentment and allow extremists to prey on despair. So America is using its influence to build a freer, more hopeful, and more compassionate world. This is a reflection of our national interests; it is the calling of our conscience. America opposes genocide in Sudan. We support freedom in countries from Cuba and Zimbabwe to Belarus and Burma. America is leading the fight against global poverty with strong education initiatives and humanitarian assistance. We have also changed the way we deliver aid by launching the Millennium Challenge Account. This program strengthens democracy, transparency, and the rule of law in developing nations, and I ask you to fully fund this important initiative. America is leading the fight against global hunger. Today, more than half the world's food aid comes from the United States. And tonight I ask Congress to support an innovative proposal to provide food assistance by purchasing crops directly from farmers in the developing world, so we can build up local agriculture and help break the cycle of famine. America is leading the fight against disease. With your help, we are working to cut by half the number of malaria-related deaths in 15 African nations. And our Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief is treating 1.4 million people. We can bring healing and hope to many more. So I ask you to maintain the principles that have changed behavior and made this program a success. And I call on you to double our initial commitment to fighting HIV/AIDS by approving an additional $30 billion over the next 5 years. America is a force for hope in the world because we are a compassionate people, and some of the most compassionate Americans are those who have stepped forward to protect us. We must keep faith with all who have risked life and limb so that we might live in freedom and peace. Over the past 7 years, we have increased funding for veterans by more than 95 percent. And as we increase funding, we must also reform our veterans system to meet the needs of a new war and a new generation. I call on Congress to enact the reforms recommended by Senator Bob Dole and Secretary Donna Shalala so we can improve the system of care for our wounded warriors and help them build lives of hope and promise and dignity. Our military families also sacrifice for America. They endure sleepless nights and the daily struggle of providing for children while a loved one is serving far from home. We have a responsibility to provide for them. So I ask you to join me in expanding their access to child care, creating new hiring preferences for military spouses across the Federal Government, and allowing our troops to transfer their unused education benefits to their spouses or children. Our military families serve our Nation, they inspire our Nation, and tonight our Nation honors them. The strength—the secret of our strength, the miracle of America, is that our greatness lies not in our Government, but in the spirit and determination of our people. When the Federal Convention met in Philadelphia in 1787, our Nation was bound by the Articles of Confederation, which began with the words, "We the undersigned delegates." When Gouverneur Morris was asked to draft the preamble to our new Constitution, he offered an important revision and opened with words that changed the course of our Nation and the history of the world: "We the people." By trusting the people, our Founders wagered that a great and noble nation could be built on the liberty that resides in the hearts of all men and women. By trusting the people, succeeding generations transformed our fragile, young democracy into the most powerful nation on Earth and a beacon of hope for millions. And so long as we continue to trust the people, our Nation will prosper, our liberty will be secure, and the state of our Union will remain strong. So tonight, with confidence in freedom's power and trust in the people, let us set forth to do their business. God bless America.
thank you all madam speaker vice president cheney members of congress distinguished guests and fellow citizens seven years have passed since i first stood before you at this rostrum in that time our country has been tested in ways none of us could have imagined we faced hard decisions about peace and war rising competition in the world economy and the health and welfare of our citizens these issues call for vigorous debate and i think it is fair to say we have answered the call yet history will record that amid our differences we acted with purpose and together we showed the world the power and resilience of american all of us were sent to washington to carry out the people business that is the purpose of this body it is the meaning of our oath it remains our charge to keep the actions of the 110th congress will affect the security and prosperity of our nation long after this session has ended in this election year let us show our fellow americans that we recognize our responsibilities and are determined to meet them let us show them that republicans and democrats can compete for votes and cooperate for results at the same time from expanding opportunity to protecting our country we have made good progress yet we have unfinished business before us and the american people expect us to get it done in the work ahead we must be guided by the philosophy that made our nation great as americans we believe in the power of individuals to determine their destiny and shape the course of history we believe that the most reliable guide for our country is the collective wisdom of ordinary citizens and so in all we do we must trust in the ability of free peoples to make wise decisions and empower them to improve their lives for their futures to build a prosperous future we must trust people with their own money and empower them to grow our economy as we meet tonight our economy is undergoing a period of uncertainty america has added jobs for a record 52 straight months but jobs are now growing at a slower pace wages are up but so are prices for food and gas exports are rising but the housing market has declined at kitchen tables across our country there is a concern about our economic future in the long run americans can be confident about our economic growth but in the short run we can all see that that growth is slowing so last week my administration reached agreement with speaker pelosi and republican leader boehner on a robust growth package that includes tax relief for individuals and families and incentives for business investment the temptation will be to load up the bill that would delay it or derail it and neither option is acceptable this is a good agreement that will keep our economy growing and our people working and this congress must pass it as soon as possible we have other work to do on taxes unless congress acts most of the tax relief we have delivered over the past 7 years will be taken away some in washington argue that letting tax relief expire is not a tax increase try explaining that to 116 million american taxpayers who would see their taxes rise by an average of others have said they would personally be happy to pay higher taxes i welcome their enthusiasm i am pleased to report that the irs accepts both checks and money orders most americans think their taxes are high enough with all the other pressures on their finances american families should not have to worry about their federal government taking a bigger bite out of their paychecks there is only one way to eliminate this uncertainty make the tax relief permanent and members of congress should know if any bill raises taxes reaches my desk i will veto it just as we trust americans with their own money we need to earn their trust by spending their tax dollars wisely next week i will send you a budget that terminates or substantially reduces 151 wasteful or bloated programs totaling more than 18 billion the budget that i will submit will keep america on track for a surplus in 2012 american families have to balance their budgets so should their government the people trust in their government is undermined by congressional earmarks special interest projects that are often snuck in at the last minute without discussion or debate last year i asked you to voluntarily cut the number and cost of earmarks in half i also asked you to stop slipping earmarks into committee reports that never even come to a vote unfortunately neither goal was met so this time if you send me an appropriations bill that does not cut the number and cost of earmarks in half i will send it back to you with my veto and tomorrow i will issue an executive order that directs federal agencies to ignore any future earmark that is not voted on by congress if these items are truly worth funding congress should debate them in the open and hold a public vote our shared responsibilities extend beyond matters of taxes and spending on housing we must trust americans with the responsibility of homeownership and empower them to weather turbulent times in the housing market my administration brought together the hope now alliance which is helping many struggling homeowners avoid foreclosure and congress can help even more tonight i ask you to pass legislation to reform fannie mae and freddie mac modernize the federal housing administration and allow state housing agencies to issue bonds to help homeowners refinance their mortgages these are difficult times for many american families and by taking these steps we can help more of them keep their homes to build a future of quality health care we must trust patients and doctors to make medical decisions and empower them with better information and better options we share a common goal making health care more affordable and accessible for all americans the best way to achieve that goal is by expanding consumer choice not government control so i have proposed ending the bias in the tax code against those who do not get their health insurance through their employer this one reform would put private coverage within reach for millions and i call on the congress to pass it this year congress must also expand health savings accounts create association health plans for small businesses promote health information technology and confront the epidemic of junk medical lawsuits with all these steps we will ensure that decisions about your medical care are made in the privacy of your doctor office not in the halls of congress on education we must trust students to learn if given the chance and empower parents to demand results from our schools in neighborhoods across our country there are boys and girls with dreams and a decent education is their only hope of achieving them six years ago we came together to pass the no child left behind act and today no one can deny its results last year fourth and eighth graders achieved the highest math scores on record reading scores are on the rise african american and hispanic students posted alltime highs now we must work together to increase accountability add flexibilities for states and districts reduce the number of high school dropouts provide extra help for struggling schools members of congress the no child left behind act is a bipartisan achievement it is succeeding and we owe it to america children their parents and their teachers to strengthen this good law we must also do more to help children when their schools do not measure up thanks to the dc opportunity scholarships you approved more than of the poorest children in our nation capital have found new hope at a or other nonpublic school sadly these schools are disappearing at an alarming rate in many of america inner cities so i will convene a white house summit aimed at strengthening these lifelines of learning and to open the doors of these schools to more children i ask you to support a new 300 million program called pell grants for kids we have seen how pell grants help college students realize their full potential together we have expanded the size and reach of these grants now let us apply the same spirit to help liberate poor children trapped in failing public schools on trade we must trust american workers to compete with anyone in the world and empower them by opening up new markets overseas today our economic growth increasingly depends on our ability to sell american goods and crops and services all over the world so we are working to break down barriers to trade and investment wherever we can we are working for a successful doha round of trade talks and we must complete a good agreement this year at the same time we are pursuing opportunities to open up new markets by passing free trade agreements i thank the congress for approving a good agreement with peru and now i ask you to approve agreements with colombia and panama and south korea many products from these nations now enter america duty free yet many of our products face steep tariffs in their markets these agreements will level the playing field they will give us better access to nearly 100 million customers they will support good jobs for the finest workers in the world those whose products say made in the these agreements also promote america strategic interests the first agreement that will come before you is with colombia a friend of america that is confronting violence and terror and fighting drug traffickers if we fail to pass this agreement we will embolden the purveyors of false populism in our hemisphere so we must come together pass this agreement and show our neighbors in the region that democracy leads to a better life trade brings better jobs and better choices and better prices yet for some americans trade can mean losing a job and the federal government has a responsibility to help i ask congress to reauthorize and reform trade adjustment assistance so we can help these displaced workers learn new skills and find new jobs to build a future of energy security we must trust in the creative genius of american researchers and entrepreneurs and empower them to pioneer a new generation of clean energy technology our security our prosperity and our environment all require reducing our dependence on oil last year i asked you to pass legislation to reduce oil consumption over the next decade and you responded together we should take the next steps let us fund new technologies that can generate coal power while capturing carbon emissions let us increase the use of renewable power and nuclear power let us continue investing in advanced battery technology and renewable fuels to power the cars and trucks of the future let us create a new international clean technology fund which will help developing nations like india and china make a greater use of clean energy sources and let us complete an international agreement that has the potential to slow stop and eventually reverse the growth of greenhouse gases this agreement will be effective only if it includes commitments by every major economy and gives none a free ride the united states is committed to strengthening our energy security and confronting global climate change and the best way to meet these goals is for america to continue leading the way toward the development of cleaner and more energy efficient technology to keep america competitive into the future we must trust in the skill of our scientists and engineers and empower them to pursue the breakthroughs of tomorrow last year congress passed legislation supporting the american competitiveness initiative but never followed through with the funding this funding is essential to keeping our scientific edge so i ask congress to double federal support for critical basic research in the physical sciences and ensure america remains the most dynamic nation on earth on matters of life and science we must trust in the innovative spirit of medical researchers and empower them to discover new treatments while respecting moral boundaries in november we witnessed a landmark achievement when scientists discovered a way to reprogram adult skin cells to act like embryonic stem cells this breakthrough has the potential to move us beyond the divisive debates of the past by extending the frontiers of medicine without the destruction of human life so we are expanding funding for this type of ethical medical research and as we explore promising avenues of research we must also ensure that all life is treated with the dignity it deserves and so i call on congress to pass legislation that bans unethical practices such as the buying selling patenting or cloning of human life on matters of justice we must trust in the wisdom of our founders and empower judges who understand that the constitution means what it says i have submitted judicial nominees who will rule by the letter of the law not the whim of the gavel many of these nominees are being unfairly delayed they are worthy of confirmation and the senate should give each of them a prompt vote in communities across our land we must trust in the good heart of the american people and empower them to serve their neighbors in need over the past 7 years more of our fellow citizens have discovered that the pursuit of happiness leads to the path of service americans have volunteered in record numbers charitable donations are higher than ever groups are bringing hope to pockets of despair with newfound support from the federal government and to help guarantee equal treatment of organizations when they compete for federal funds i ask you to permanently extend charitable choice tonight the armies of compassion continue the march to a new day in the gulf coast america honors the strength and resilience of the people of this region we reaffirm our pledge to help them build stronger and better than before and tonight i am pleased to announce that in april we will host this year north american summit of canada mexico and the united states in the great city of new orleans there are two other pressing challenges that i have raised repeatedly before this body and that this body has failed to address entitlement spending and immigration every member in this chamber knows that spending on entitlement programs like social security medicare and medicaid is growing faster than we can afford we all know the painful choices ahead if america stays on this path massive tax increases sudden and drastic cuts in benefits or crippling deficits i have laid out proposals to reform these programs now i ask members of congress to offer your proposals and come up with a bipartisan solution to save these vital programs for our children and our grandchildren the other pressing challenge is immigration america needs to secure our borders and with your help my administration is taking steps to do so we are increasing worksite enforcement deploying fences and advanced technologies to stop illegal crossings we have effectively ended the policy of at the border and by the end of this year we will have doubled the number of border patrol agents yet we also need to acknowledge that we will never fully secure our border until we create a lawful way for foreign workers to come here and support our economy this will take pressure off the border and allow law enforcement to concentrate on those who mean us harm we must also find a sensible and humane way to deal with people here illegally illegal immigration is complicated but it can be resolved and it must be resolved in a way that upholds both our laws and our highest ideals this is the business of our nation here at home yet building a prosperous future for our citizens also depends on confronting enemies abroad and advancing liberty in troubled regions of the world our foreign policy is based on a clear premise we trust that people when given the chance will choose a future of freedom and peace in the last 7 years we have witnessed stirring moments in the history of liberty we have seen citizens in georgia and ukraine stand up for their right to free and fair elections we have seen people in lebanon take to the streets to demand their independence we have seen afghans emerge from the tyranny of the taliban and choose a new president and a new parliament we have seen jubilant iraqis holding up fingers and celebrating their freedom these images of liberty have inspired us in the past 7 years we have also seen the images that have sobered us we have watched throngs of mourners in lebanon and pakistan carrying the caskets of beloved leaders taken by the assassin hand we have seen wedding guests in finery staggering from a hotel in jordan afghans and iraqis blown up in mosques and markets and trains in london and madrid ripped apart by bombs on a clear september day we saw thousands of our fellow citizens taken from us in an instant these horrific images serve as a grim reminder the advance of liberty is opposed by terrorists and extremists evil men who despise freedom despise america and aim to subject millions to their violent rule since we have taken the fight to these terrorists and extremists we will stay on the offense we will keep up the pressure and we will deliver justice to our enemies we are engaged in the defining ideological struggle of the 21st century the terrorists oppose every principle of humanity and decency that we hold dear yet in this war on terror there is one thing we and our enemies agree on in the long run men and women who are free to determine their own destinies will reject terror and refuse to live in tyranny and that is why the terrorists are fighting to deny this choice to the people in lebanon iraq afghanistan pakistan and the palestinian territories and that is why for the security of america and the peace of the world we are spreading the hope of freedom in afghanistan america our 25 nato allies and 15 partner nations are helping the afghan people defend their freedom and rebuild their country thanks to the courage of these military and civilian personnel a nation that was once a safe haven for al qaida is now a young democracy where boys and girls are going to school new roads and hospitals are being built and people are looking to the future with new hope these successes must continue so we are adding marines to our forces in afghanistan where they will fight the terrorists and train the afghan army and police defeating the taliban and al qaida is critical to our security and i thank the congress for supporting america vital mission in afghanistan in iraq the terrorists and extremists are fighting to deny a proud people their liberty and fighting to establish safe havens for attacks across the world one year ago our enemies were succeeding in their efforts to plunge iraq into chaos so we reviewed our strategy and changed course we launched a surge of american forces into iraq we gave our troops a new mission work with the iraqi forces to protect the iraqi people pursue the enemy in its strongholds and deny the terrorists sanctuary anywhere in the country the iraqi people quickly realized that something dramatic had happened those who had worried that america was preparing to abandon them instead saw tens of thousands of american forces flowing into their country they saw our forces moving into neighborhoods clearing out the terrorists and staying behind to ensure the enemy did not return and they saw our troops along with provincial reconstruction teams that include foreign service officers and other skilled public servants coming in to ensure that improved security was followed by improvements in daily life our military and civilians in iraq are performing with courage and distinction and they have the gratitude of our whole nation the iraqis launched a surge of their own in the fall of 2006 sunni tribal leaders grew tired of al qaida brutality started a popular uprising called the anbar awakening over the past year similar movements have spread across the country and today the grassroots surge includes more than iraqi citizens who are fighting the terrorists the government in baghdad has stepped forward as well adding more than new iraqi soldiers and police during the past year while the enemy is still dangerous and more work remains the american and iraqi surges have achieved results few of us could have imagined just 1 year ago when we met last year many said that containing the violence was impossible a year later terrorist attacks are down civilian deaths are down sectarian killings are down when we met last year militia armed and trained by were wreaking havoc in large areas of iraq a year later coalition and iraqi forces have killed or captured hundreds of militia fighters and iraqis of all backgrounds increasingly realize that defeating these militia fighters is critical to the future of their country when we met last year al qaida had sanctuaries in many areas of iraq and their leaders had just offered american forces safe passage out of the country today it is al qaida that is searching for safe passage they have been driven from many of the strongholds they once held and over the past year we have captured or killed thousands of extremists in iraq including hundreds of key al qaida leaders and operatives last month usama bin laden released a tape in which he railed against iraqi tribal leaders who have turned on al qaida and admitted that coalition forces are growing stronger in iraq ladies and gentlemen some may deny the surge is working but among the terrorists there is no doubt al qaida is on the run in iraq and this enemy will be defeated when we met last year our troop levels in iraq were on the rise today because of the progress just described we are implementing a policy of return on success and the surge forces we sent to iraq are beginning to come home this progress is a credit to the valor of our troops and the brilliance of their commanders this evening i want to speak directly to our men and women on the frontlines soldiers and sailors airmen marines and coastguardsmen in the past year you have done everything we have asked of you and more our nation is grateful for your courage we are proud of your accomplishments and tonight in this hallowed chamber with the american people as our witness we make you a solemn pledge in the fight ahead you will have all you need to protect our nation and i ask congress to meet its responsibilities to these brave men and women by fully funding our troops our enemies in iraq have been hit hard they are not yet defeated and we can still expect tough fighting ahead our objective in the coming year is to sustain and build on the gains we made in 2007 while transitioning to the next phase of our strategy american troops are shifting from leading operations to partnering with iraqi forces and eventually to a protective overwatch mission as part of this transition one army brigade combat team and one marine expeditionary unit have already come home and will not be replaced in the coming months four additional brigades and two marine battalions will follow suit taken together this means more than of our troops are coming home any further drawdown of troops will be based on conditions in iraq and the recommendations of our commanders general petraeus has warned that too fast a drawdown could result in quote the disintegration of the iraqi security forces al regaining lost ground and a marked increase in violence members of congress having come so far and achieved so much we must not allow this to happen in the coming year we will work with iraqi leaders as they build on the progress they are making toward political reconciliation at the local level sunnis shi a and kurds are beginning to come together to reclaim their communities and rebuild their lives progress in the provinces must be matched by progress in baghdad we are seeing some encouraging signs the national government is sharing oil revenues with the provinces the parliament recently passed both a pension law and reform they are now debating a provincial powers law the iraqis still have a distance to travel but after decades of dictatorship and the pain of sectarian violence reconciliation is taking place and the iraqi people are taking control of their future the mission in iraq has been difficult and trying for our nation but it is in the vital interest of the united states that we succeed a free iraq will deny al qaida a safe haven a free iraq will show millions across the middle east that a future of liberty is possible a free iraq will be a friend of america a partner in fighting terror and a source of stability in a dangerous part of the world by contrast a failed iraq would embolden the extremists strengthen iran and give terrorists a base from which to launch new attacks on our friends our allies and our homeland the enemy has made its intentions clear at a time when the momentum seemed to favor them al qaida top commander in iraq declared that they will not rest until they have attacked us here in washington my fellow americans we will not rest either we will not rest until this enemy has been defeated we must do the difficult work today so that years from now people will look back and say that this generation rose to the moment prevailed in a tough fight and left behind a more hopeful region and a safer america we are also standing against the forces of extremism in the holy land where we have new because for hope palestinians have elected a president who recognizes that confronting terror is essential to achieving a state where his people can live in dignity and at peace with israel israelis have leaders who recognize that a peaceful democratic palestinian state will be a source of lasting security this month in ramallah and jerusalem i assured leaders from both sides that america will do and i will do everything we can to help them achieve a peace agreement that defines a palestinian state by the end of this year the time has come for a holy land where a democratic israel and a democratic palestine live side by side in peace we are also standing against the forces of extremism embodied by the regime in tehran iran rulers oppress a good and talented people and wherever freedom advances in the middle east it seems the iranian regime is there to oppose it iran is funding and training militia groups in iraq supporting hizballah terrorists in lebanon and backing hamas efforts to undermine peace in the holy land tehran is also developing ballistic missiles of increasing range and continues to develop its capability to enrich uranium which could be used to create a nuclear weapon our message to the people of iran is clear we have no quarrel with you we respect your traditions and your history we look forward to the day when you have your freedom our message to the leaders of iran is also clear verifiably suspend your nuclear enrichment so negotiations can begin and to rejoin the community of nations come clean about your nuclear intentions and past actions stop your oppression at home cease your support for terror abroad but above all know this america will confront those who threaten our troops we will stand by our allies and we will defend our vital interests in the persian gulf on the homefront we will continue to take every lawful and effective measure to protect our country this is our most solemn duty we are grateful that there has not been another attack on our soil since this is not for the lack of desire or effort on the part of the enemy in the past 6 years we have stopped numerous attacks including a plot to fly a plane into the tallest building in los angeles and another to blow up passenger jets bound for america over the atlantic dedicated men and women in our government toil day and night to stop the terrorists from carrying out their plans these good citizens are saving american lives and everyone in this chamber owes them our thanks and we owe them something more we owe them the tools they need to keep our people safe and one of the most important tools we can give them is the ability to monitor terrorist communications to protect america we need to know who the terrorists are talking to what they are saying and what they are planning last year congress passed legislation to help us do that unfortunately congress set the legislations to expire on february the 1st that means if you do not act by friday our ability to track terrorist threats would be weakened and our citizens will be in greater danger congress must ensure the flow of vital intelligence is not disrupted congress must pass liability protection for companies believed to have assisted in the efforts to defend america we have had ample time for debate the time to act is now protecting our nation from the dangers of a new century requires more than good intelligence and a strong military it also requires changing the conditions that breed resentment and allow extremists to prey on despair so america is using its influence to build a freer more hopeful and more compassionate world this is a reflection of our national interests it is the calling of our conscience america opposes genocide in sudan we support freedom in countries from cuba and zimbabwe to belarus and burma america is leading the fight against global poverty with strong education initiatives and humanitarian assistance we have also changed the way we deliver aid by launching the millennium challenge account this program strengthens democracy transparency and the rule of law in developing nations and i ask you to fully fund this important initiative america is leading the fight against global hunger today more than half the world food aid comes from the united states and tonight i ask congress to support an innovative proposal to provide food assistance by purchasing crops directly from farmers in the developing world so we can build up local agriculture and help break the cycle of famine america is leading the fight against disease with your help we are working to cut by half the number of deaths in 15 african nations and our emergency plan for aids relief is treating million people we can bring healing and hope to many more so i ask you to maintain the principles that have changed behavior and made this program a success and i call on you to double our initial commitment to fighting by approving an additional 30 billion over the next 5 years america is a force for hope in the world because we are a compassionate people and some of the most compassionate americans are those who have stepped forward to protect us we must keep faith with all who have risked life and limb so that we might live in freedom and peace over the past 7 years we have increased funding for veterans by more than 95 percent and as we increase funding we must also reform our veterans system to meet the needs of a new war and a new generation i call on congress to enact the reforms recommended by senator bob dole and secretary donna shalala so we can improve the system of care for our wounded warriors and help them build lives of hope and promise and dignity our military families also sacrifice for america they endure sleepless nights and the daily struggle of providing for children while a loved one is serving far from home we have a responsibility to provide for them so i ask you to join me in expanding their access to child care creating new hiring preferences for military spouses across the federal government and allowing our troops to transfer their unused education benefits to their spouses or children our military families serve our nation they inspire our nation and tonight our nation honors them the secret of our strength the miracle of america is that our greatness lies not in our government but in the spirit and determination of our people when the federal convention met in philadelphia in 1787 our nation was bound by the articles of confederation which began with the words we the undersigned delegates when gouverneur morris was asked to draft the preamble to our new constitution he offered an important revision and opened with words that changed the course of our nation and the history of the world we the people by trusting the people our founders wagered that a great and noble nation could be built on the liberty that resides in the hearts of all men and women by trusting the people succeeding generations transformed our fragile young democracy into the most powerful nation on earth and a beacon of hope for millions and so long as we continue to trust the people our nation will prosper our liberty will be secure and the state of our union will remain strong so tonight with confidence in freedom power and trust in the people let us set forth to do their business god bless america
thank madam speaker vice president cheney members congress distinguished guests fellow citizens seven years passed since first stood rostrum time country tested ways none us could imagined faced hard decisions peace war rising competition world economy health welfare citizens issues call vigorous debate think fair say answered call yet history record amid differences acted purpose together showed world power resilience american us sent washington carry people business purpose body meaning oath remains charge keep actions 110th congress affect security prosperity nation long session ended election year let us show fellow americans recognize responsibilities determined meet let us show republicans democrats compete votes cooperate results time expanding opportunity protecting country made good progress yet unfinished business us american people expect us get done work ahead must guided philosophy made nation great americans believe power individuals determine destiny shape course history believe reliable guide country collective wisdom ordinary citizens must trust ability free peoples make wise decisions empower improve lives futures build prosperous future must trust people money empower grow economy meet tonight economy undergoing period uncertainty america added jobs record 52 straight months jobs growing slower pace wages prices food gas exports rising housing market declined kitchen tables across country concern economic future long run americans confident economic growth short run see growth slowing last week administration reached agreement speaker pelosi republican leader boehner robust growth package includes tax relief individuals families incentives business investment temptation load bill would delay derail neither option acceptable good agreement keep economy growing people working congress must pass soon possible work taxes unless congress acts tax relief delivered past 7 years taken away washington argue letting tax relief expire tax increase try explaining 116 million american taxpayers would see taxes rise average others said would personally happy pay higher taxes welcome enthusiasm pleased report irs accepts checks money orders americans think taxes high enough pressures finances american families worry federal government taking bigger bite paychecks one way eliminate uncertainty make tax relief permanent members congress know bill raises taxes reaches desk veto trust americans money need earn trust spending tax dollars wisely next week send budget terminates substantially reduces 151 wasteful bloated programs totaling 18 billion budget submit keep america track surplus 2012 american families balance budgets government people trust government undermined congressional earmarks special interest projects often snuck last minute without discussion debate last year asked voluntarily cut number cost earmarks half also asked stop slipping earmarks committee reports never even come vote unfortunately neither goal met time send appropriations bill cut number cost earmarks half send back veto tomorrow issue executive order directs federal agencies ignore future earmark voted congress items truly worth funding congress debate open hold public vote shared responsibilities extend beyond matters taxes spending housing must trust americans responsibility homeownership empower weather turbulent times housing market administration brought together hope alliance helping many struggling homeowners avoid foreclosure congress help even tonight ask pass legislation reform fannie mae freddie mac modernize federal housing administration allow state housing agencies issue bonds help homeowners refinance mortgages difficult times many american families taking steps help keep homes build future quality health care must trust patients doctors make medical decisions empower better information better options share common goal making health care affordable accessible americans best way achieve goal expanding consumer choice government control proposed ending bias tax code get health insurance employer one reform would put private coverage within reach millions call congress pass year congress must also expand health savings accounts create association health plans small businesses promote health information technology confront epidemic junk medical lawsuits steps ensure decisions medical care made privacy doctor office halls congress education must trust students learn given chance empower parents demand results schools neighborhoods across country boys girls dreams decent education hope achieving six years ago came together pass child left behind act today one deny results last year fourth eighth graders achieved highest math scores record reading scores rise african american hispanic students posted alltime highs must work together increase accountability add flexibilities states districts reduce number high school dropouts provide extra help struggling schools members congress child left behind act bipartisan achievement succeeding owe america children parents teachers strengthen good law must also help children schools measure thanks dc opportunity scholarships approved poorest children nation capital found new hope nonpublic school sadly schools disappearing alarming rate many america inner cities convene white house summit aimed strengthening lifelines learning open doors schools children ask support new 300 million program called pell grants kids seen pell grants help college students realize full potential together expanded size reach grants let us apply spirit help liberate poor children trapped failing public schools trade must trust american workers compete anyone world empower opening new markets overseas today economic growth increasingly depends ability sell american goods crops services world working break barriers trade investment wherever working successful doha round trade talks must complete good agreement year time pursuing opportunities open new markets passing free trade agreements thank congress approving good agreement peru ask approve agreements colombia panama south korea many products nations enter america duty free yet many products face steep tariffs markets agreements level playing field give us better access nearly 100 million customers support good jobs finest workers world whose products say made agreements also promote america strategic interests first agreement come colombia friend america confronting violence terror fighting drug traffickers fail pass agreement embolden purveyors false populism hemisphere must come together pass agreement show neighbors region democracy leads better life trade brings better jobs better choices better prices yet americans trade mean losing job federal government responsibility help ask congress reauthorize reform trade adjustment assistance help displaced workers learn new skills find new jobs build future energy security must trust creative genius american researchers entrepreneurs empower pioneer new generation clean energy technology security prosperity environment require reducing dependence oil last year asked pass legislation reduce oil consumption next decade responded together take next steps let us fund new technologies generate coal power capturing carbon emissions let us increase use renewable power nuclear power let us continue investing advanced battery technology renewable fuels power cars trucks future let us create new international clean technology fund help developing nations like india china make greater use clean energy sources let us complete international agreement potential slow stop eventually reverse growth greenhouse gases agreement effective includes commitments every major economy gives none free ride united states committed strengthening energy security confronting global climate change best way meet goals america continue leading way toward development cleaner energy efficient technology keep america competitive future must trust skill scientists engineers empower pursue breakthroughs tomorrow last year congress passed legislation supporting american competitiveness initiative never followed funding funding essential keeping scientific edge ask congress double federal support critical basic research physical sciences ensure america remains dynamic nation earth matters life science must trust innovative spirit medical researchers empower discover new treatments respecting moral boundaries november witnessed landmark achievement scientists discovered way reprogram adult skin cells act like embryonic stem cells breakthrough potential move us beyond divisive debates past extending frontiers medicine without destruction human life expanding funding type ethical medical research explore promising avenues research must also ensure life treated dignity deserves call congress pass legislation bans unethical practices buying selling patenting cloning human life matters justice must trust wisdom founders empower judges understand constitution means says submitted judicial nominees rule letter law whim gavel many nominees unfairly delayed worthy confirmation senate give prompt vote communities across land must trust good heart american people empower serve neighbors need past 7 years fellow citizens discovered pursuit happiness leads path service americans volunteered record numbers charitable donations higher ever groups bringing hope pockets despair newfound support federal government help guarantee equal treatment organizations compete federal funds ask permanently extend charitable choice tonight armies compassion continue march new day gulf coast america honors strength resilience people region reaffirm pledge help build stronger better tonight pleased announce april host year north american summit canada mexico united states great city new orleans two pressing challenges raised repeatedly body body failed address entitlement spending immigration every member chamber knows spending entitlement programs like social security medicare medicaid growing faster afford know painful choices ahead america stays path massive tax increases sudden drastic cuts benefits crippling deficits laid proposals reform programs ask members congress offer proposals come bipartisan solution save vital programs children grandchildren pressing challenge immigration america needs secure borders help administration taking steps increasing worksite enforcement deploying fences advanced technologies stop illegal crossings effectively ended policy border end year doubled number border patrol agents yet also need acknowledge never fully secure border create lawful way foreign workers come support economy take pressure border allow law enforcement concentrate mean us harm must also find sensible humane way deal people illegally illegal immigration complicated resolved must resolved way upholds laws highest ideals business nation home yet building prosperous future citizens also depends confronting enemies abroad advancing liberty troubled regions world foreign policy based clear premise trust people given chance choose future freedom peace last 7 years witnessed stirring moments history liberty seen citizens georgia ukraine stand right free fair elections seen people lebanon take streets demand independence seen afghans emerge tyranny taliban choose new president new parliament seen jubilant iraqis holding fingers celebrating freedom images liberty inspired us past 7 years also seen images sobered us watched throngs mourners lebanon pakistan carrying caskets beloved leaders taken assassin hand seen wedding guests finery staggering hotel jordan afghans iraqis blown mosques markets trains london madrid ripped apart bombs clear september day saw thousands fellow citizens taken us instant horrific images serve grim reminder advance liberty opposed terrorists extremists evil men despise freedom despise america aim subject millions violent rule since taken fight terrorists extremists stay offense keep pressure deliver justice enemies engaged defining ideological struggle 21st century terrorists oppose every principle humanity decency hold dear yet war terror one thing enemies agree long run men women free determine destinies reject terror refuse live tyranny terrorists fighting deny choice people lebanon iraq afghanistan pakistan palestinian territories security america peace world spreading hope freedom afghanistan america 25 nato allies 15 partner nations helping afghan people defend freedom rebuild country thanks courage military civilian personnel nation safe al qaida young democracy boys girls going school new roads hospitals built people looking future new hope successes must continue adding marines forces afghanistan fight terrorists train afghan army police defeating taliban al qaida critical security thank congress supporting america vital mission afghanistan iraq terrorists extremists fighting deny proud people liberty fighting establish safe havens attacks across world one year ago enemies succeeding efforts plunge iraq chaos reviewed strategy changed course launched surge american forces iraq gave troops new mission work iraqi forces protect iraqi people pursue enemy strongholds deny terrorists sanctuary anywhere country iraqi people quickly realized something dramatic happened worried america preparing abandon instead saw tens thousands american forces flowing country saw forces moving neighborhoods clearing terrorists staying behind ensure enemy return saw troops along provincial reconstruction teams include foreign service officers skilled public servants coming ensure improved security followed improvements daily life military civilians iraq performing courage distinction gratitude whole nation iraqis launched surge fall 2006 sunni tribal leaders grew tired al qaida brutality started popular uprising called anbar awakening past year similar movements spread across country today grassroots surge includes iraqi citizens fighting terrorists government baghdad stepped forward well adding new iraqi soldiers police past year enemy still dangerous work remains american iraqi surges achieved results us could imagined 1 year ago met last year many said containing violence impossible year later terrorist attacks civilian deaths sectarian killings met last year militia armed trained wreaking havoc large areas iraq year later coalition iraqi forces killed captured hundreds militia fighters iraqis backgrounds increasingly realize defeating militia fighters critical future country met last year al qaida sanctuaries many areas iraq leaders offered american forces safe passage country today al qaida searching safe passage driven many strongholds held past year captured killed thousands extremists iraq including hundreds key al qaida leaders operatives last month usama bin laden released tape railed iraqi tribal leaders turned al qaida admitted coalition forces growing stronger iraq ladies gentlemen may deny surge working among terrorists doubt al qaida run iraq enemy defeated met last year troop levels iraq rise today progress described implementing policy return success surge forces sent iraq beginning come home progress credit valor troops brilliance commanders evening want speak directly men women frontlines soldiers sailors airmen marines coastguardsmen past year done everything asked nation grateful courage proud accomplishments tonight hallowed chamber american people witness make solemn pledge fight ahead need protect nation ask congress meet responsibilities brave men women fully funding troops enemies iraq hit hard yet defeated still expect tough fighting ahead objective coming year sustain build gains made 2007 transitioning next phase strategy american troops shifting leading operations partnering iraqi forces eventually protective overwatch mission part transition one army brigade combat team one marine expeditionary unit already come home replaced coming months four additional brigades two marine battalions follow suit taken together means troops coming home drawdown troops based conditions iraq recommendations commanders general petraeus warned fast drawdown could result quote disintegration iraqi security forces al regaining lost ground marked increase violence members congress come far achieved much must allow happen coming year work iraqi leaders build progress making toward political reconciliation local level sunnis shi kurds beginning come together reclaim communities rebuild lives progress provinces must matched progress baghdad seeing encouraging signs national government sharing oil revenues provinces parliament recently passed pension law reform debating provincial powers law iraqis still distance travel decades dictatorship pain sectarian violence reconciliation taking place iraqi people taking control future mission iraq difficult trying nation vital interest united states succeed free iraq deny al qaida safe free iraq show millions across middle east future liberty possible free iraq friend america partner fighting terror source stability dangerous part world contrast failed iraq would embolden extremists strengthen iran give terrorists base launch new attacks friends allies homeland enemy made intentions clear time momentum seemed favor al qaida top commander iraq declared rest attacked us washington fellow americans rest either rest enemy defeated must difficult work today years people look back say generation rose moment prevailed tough fight left behind hopeful region safer america also standing forces extremism holy land new hope palestinians elected president recognizes confronting terror essential achieving state people live dignity peace israel israelis leaders recognize peaceful democratic palestinian state source lasting security month ramallah jerusalem assured leaders sides america everything help achieve peace agreement defines palestinian state end year time come holy land democratic israel democratic palestine live side side peace also standing forces extremism embodied regime tehran iran rulers oppress good talented people wherever freedom advances middle east seems iranian regime oppose iran funding training militia groups iraq supporting hizballah terrorists lebanon backing hamas efforts undermine peace holy land tehran also developing ballistic missiles increasing range continues develop capability enrich uranium could used create nuclear weapon message people iran clear quarrel respect traditions history look forward day freedom message leaders iran also clear verifiably suspend nuclear enrichment negotiations begin rejoin community nations come clean nuclear intentions past actions stop oppression home cease support terror abroad know america confront threaten troops stand allies defend vital interests persian gulf homefront continue take every lawful effective measure protect country solemn duty grateful another attack soil since lack desire effort part enemy past 6 years stopped numerous attacks including plot fly plane tallest building los angeles another blow passenger jets bound america atlantic dedicated men women government toil day night stop terrorists carrying plans good citizens saving american lives everyone chamber owes thanks owe something owe tools need keep people safe one important tools give ability monitor terrorist communications protect america need know terrorists talking saying planning last year congress passed legislation help us unfortunately congress set legislations expire february 1st means act friday ability track terrorist threats would weakened citizens greater danger congress must ensure flow vital intelligence disrupted congress must pass liability protection companies believed assisted efforts defend america ample time debate time act protecting nation dangers new century requires good intelligence strong military also requires changing conditions breed resentment allow extremists prey despair america using influence build freer hopeful compassionate world reflection national interests calling conscience america opposes genocide sudan support freedom countries cuba zimbabwe belarus burma america leading fight global poverty strong education initiatives humanitarian assistance also changed way deliver aid launching millennium challenge account program strengthens democracy transparency rule law developing nations ask fully fund important initiative america leading fight global hunger today half world food aid comes united states tonight ask congress support innovative proposal provide food assistance purchasing crops directly farmers developing world build local agriculture help break cycle famine america leading fight disease help working cut half number deaths 15 african nations emergency plan aids relief treating million people bring healing hope many ask maintain principles changed behavior made program success call double initial commitment fighting approving additional 30 billion next 5 years america force hope world compassionate people compassionate americans stepped forward protect us must keep faith risked life limb might live freedom peace past 7 years increased funding veterans 95 percent increase funding must also reform veterans system meet needs new war new generation call congress enact reforms recommended senator bob dole secretary donna shalala improve system care wounded warriors help build lives hope promise dignity military families also sacrifice america endure sleepless nights daily struggle providing children loved one serving far home responsibility provide ask join expanding access child care creating new hiring preferences military spouses across federal government allowing troops transfer unused education benefits spouses children military families serve nation inspire nation tonight nation honors secret strength miracle america greatness lies government spirit determination people federal convention met philadelphia 1787 nation bound articles confederation began words undersigned delegates gouverneur morris asked draft preamble new constitution offered important revision opened words changed course nation history world people trusting people founders wagered great noble nation could built liberty resides hearts men women trusting people succeeding generations transformed fragile young democracy powerful nation earth beacon hope millions long continue trust people nation prosper liberty secure state union remain strong tonight confidence freedom power trust people let us set forth business god bless america
thank madam speaker vice president cheney member congress distinguished guest fellow citizen seven year pass since first stand rostrum time country test way none u could imagine face hard decision peace war rise competition world economy health welfare citizens issue call vigorous debate think fair say answer call yet history record amid difference act purpose together show world power resilience american u send washington carry people business purpose body mean oath remain charge keep action 110th congress affect security prosperity nation long session end election year let u show fellow american recognize responsibility determine meet let u show republicans democrat compete vote cooperate result time expand opportunity protect country make good progress yet unfinished business u american people expect u get do work ahead must guide philosophy make nation great american believe power individual determine destiny shape course history believe reliable guide country collective wisdom ordinary citizen must trust ability free people make wise decision empower improve life future build prosperous future must trust people money empower grow economy meet tonight economy undergoing period uncertainty america add job record 52 straight month job grow slow pace wage price food gas export rise housing market decline kitchen table across country concern economic future long run american confident economic growth short run see growth slow last week administration reach agreement speaker pelosi republican leader boehner robust growth package include tax relief individual family incentive business investment temptation load bill would delay derail neither option acceptable good agreement keep economy grow people work congress must pass soon possible work tax unless congress act tax relief deliver past 7 year take away washington argue let tax relief expire tax increase try explain 116 million american taxpayer would see tax rise average others say would personally happy pay high tax welcome enthusiasm pleased report irs accept check money order americans think tax high enough pressure finance american family worry federal government take big bite paycheck one way eliminate uncertainty make tax relief permanent member congress know bill raise tax reach desk veto trust americans money need earn trust spending tax dollar wisely next week send budget terminates substantially reduce 151 wasteful bloat program total 18 billion budget submit keep america track surplus 2012 american family balance budget government people trust government undermine congressional earmark special interest project often sneak last minute without discussion debate last year ask voluntarily cut number cost earmark half also ask stop slipping earmark committee report never even come vote unfortunately neither goal meet time send appropriation bill cut number cost earmark half send back veto tomorrow issue executive order direct federal agency ignore future earmark vote congress item truly worth fund congress debate open hold public vote share responsibility extend beyond matter tax spend housing must trust american responsibility homeownership empower weather turbulent time housing market administration bring together hope alliance help many struggle homeowner avoid foreclosure congress help even tonight ask pas legislation reform fannie mae freddie mac modernize federal housing administration allow state housing agency issue bond help homeowner refinance mortgage difficult time many american family take step help keep home build future quality health care must trust patient doctor make medical decision empower good information well option share common goal make health care affordable accessible american best way achieve goal expand consumer choice government control propose end bias tax code get health insurance employer one reform would put private coverage within reach million call congress pas year congress must also expand health saving account create association health plan small business promote health information technology confront epidemic junk medical lawsuit step ensure decision medical care make privacy doctor office halls congress education must trust student learn give chance empower parent demand result school neighborhood across country boy girls dreams decent education hope achieve six year ago come together pas child leave behind act today one deny result last year fourth eighth grader achieve high math score record reading score rise african american hispanic student post alltime high must work together increase accountability add flexibility state district reduce number high school dropout provide extra help struggle school member congress child leave behind act bipartisan achievement succeed owe america child parent teacher strengthen good law must also help child school measure thanks dc opportunity scholarship approve poor child nation capital find new hope nonpublic school sadly school disappear alarm rate many america inner city convene white house summit aim strengthen lifeline learn open door school child ask support new 300 million program call pell grant kid see pell grant help college student realize full potential together expand size reach grant let u apply spirit help liberate poor child trap fail public school trade must trust american worker compete anyone world empower open new market overseas today economic growth increasingly depend ability sell american good crop service world work break barrier trade investment wherever work successful doha round trade talk must complete good agreement year time pursue opportunity open new market pass free trade agreement thank congress approve good agreement peru ask approve agreement colombia panama south korea many product nation enter america duty free yet many product face steep tariff market agreement level play field give u good access nearly 100 million customer support good job fine worker world whose product say make agreement also promote america strategic interest first agreement come colombia friend america confront violence terror fight drug trafficker fail pas agreement embolden purveyor false populism hemisphere must come together pas agreement show neighbor region democracy lead good life trade bring well job well choice good price yet americans trade mean lose job federal government responsibility help ask congress reauthorize reform trade adjustment assistance help displace worker learn new skill find new job build future energy security must trust creative genius american researcher entrepreneurs empower pioneer new generation clean energy technology security prosperity environment require reduce dependence oil last year ask pass legislation reduce oil consumption next decade respond together take next step let u fund new technology generate coal power capture carbon emission let u increase use renewable power nuclear power let u continue invest advanced battery technology renewable fuel power car truck future let u create new international clean technology fund help develop nation like india china make great use clean energy source let u complete international agreement potential slow stop eventually reverse growth greenhouse gas agreement effective include commitment every major economy give none free ride united state commit strengthen energy security confront global climate change best way meet goal america continue lead way toward development cleaner energy efficient technology keep america competitive future must trust skill scientist engineer empower pursue breakthrough tomorrow last year congress pass legislation support american competitiveness initiative never follow fund fund essential keep scientific edge ask congress double federal support critical basic research physical science ensure america remain dynamic nation earth matter life science must trust innovative spirit medical researcher empower discover new treatment respect moral boundary november witness landmark achievement scientist discover way reprogram adult skin cell act like embryonic stem cell breakthrough potential move u beyond divisive debate past extend frontier medicine without destruction human life expand funding type ethical medical research explore promise avenue research must also ensure life treat dignity deserve call congress pas legislation ban unethical practice buy sell patent clone human life matter justice must trust wisdom founder empower judge understand constitution mean say submit judicial nominee rule letter law whim gavel many nominee unfairly delay worthy confirmation senate give prompt vote community across land must trust good heart american people empower serve neighbor need past 7 year fellow citizen discover pursuit happiness lead path service american volunteer record number charitable donation higher ever group bring hope pocket despair newfound support federal government help guarantee equal treatment organization compete federal fund ask permanently extend charitable choice tonight army compassion continue march new day gulf coast america honor strength resilience people region reaffirm pledge help build strong good tonight pleased announce april host year north american summit canada mexico united state great city new orleans two press challenge raise repeatedly body body fail address entitlement spending immigration every member chamber know spend entitlement program like social security medicare medicaid grow faster afford know painful choice ahead america stay path massive tax increase sudden drastic cut benefit cripple deficit lay proposal reform program ask member congress offer proposal come bipartisan solution save vital program child grandchildren press challenge immigration america need secure border help administration take step increase worksite enforcement deploy fence advance technology stop illegal crossing effectively end policy border end year double number border patrol agent yet also need acknowledge never fully secure border create lawful way foreign worker come support economy take pressure border allow law enforcement concentrate mean u harm must also find sensible humane way deal people illegally illegal immigration complicate resolve must resolve way upholds law high ideal business nation home yet build prosperous future citizen also depend confront enemy abroad advance liberty trouble region world foreign policy base clear premise trust people give chance choose future freedom peace last 7 year witness stir moment history liberty see citizen georgia ukraine stand right free fair election see people lebanon take street demand independence see afghan emerge tyranny taliban choose new president new parliament see jubilant iraqis hold finger celebrate freedom image liberty inspired u past 7 year also see image sober u watch throng mourner lebanon pakistan carry casket beloved leader take assassin hand see wed guest finery stagger hotel jordan afghan iraqis blown mosque market train london madrid rip apart bombs clear september day saw thousand fellow citizen take u instant horrific image serve grim reminder advance liberty oppose terrorist extremist evil men despise freedom despise america aim subject million violent rule since take fight terrorists extremist stay offense keep pressure deliver justice enemy engage define ideological struggle 21st century terrorist oppose every principle humanity decency hold dear yet war terror one thing enemy agree long run men woman free determine destiny reject terror refuse live tyranny terrorist fight deny choice people lebanon iraq afghanistan pakistan palestinian territory security america peace world spread hope freedom afghanistan america 25 nato ally 15 partner nation help afghan people defend freedom rebuild country thanks courage military civilian personnel nation safe al qaida young democracy boys girl go school new road hospital build people look future new hope successes must continue add marine force afghanistan fight terrorist train afghan army police defeat taliban al qaida critical security thank congress support america vital mission afghanistan iraq terrorist extremists fight deny proud people liberty fight establish safe haven attack across world one year ago enemy succeed effort plunge iraq chaos review strategy change course launch surge american force iraq give troop new mission work iraqi force protect iraqi people pursue enemy stronghold deny terrorist sanctuary anywhere country iraqi people quickly realize something dramatic happen worried america prepare abandon instead saw ten thousand american force flow country saw force move neighborhood clear terrorist stay behind ensure enemy return saw troop along provincial reconstruction team include foreign service officer skilled public servant come ensure improve security follow improvement daily life military civilian iraq perform courage distinction gratitude whole nation iraqi launch surge fall 2006 sunni tribal leader grow tired al qaida brutality start popular uprising call anbar awaken past year similar movement spread across country today grassroots surge include iraqi citizen fight terrorists government baghdad step forward well add new iraqi soldier police past year enemy still dangerous work remain american iraqi surge achieve result u could imagine 1 year ago meet last year many say contain violence impossible year later terrorist attack civilian death sectarian killing meet last year militia arm trained wreak havoc large area iraq year later coalition iraqi force kill capture hundred militia fighter iraqis background increasingly realize defeat militia fighter critical future country meet last year al qaida sanctuary many area iraq leader offer american force safe passage country today al qaida search safe passage driven many stronghold hold past year capture kill thousand extremist iraq include hundred key al qaida leader operative last month usama bin laden release tape rail iraqi tribal leader turn al qaida admit coalition force grow strong iraq lady gentleman may deny surge work among terrorist doubt al qaida run iraq enemy defeat meet last year troop level iraq rise today progress describe implementing policy return success surge force send iraq begin come home progress credit valor troop brilliance commander even want speak directly men woman frontlines soldier sailor airmen marine coastguardsman past year do everything ask nation grateful courage proud accomplishment tonight hallowed chamber american people witness make solemn pledge fight ahead need protect nation ask congress meet responsibility brave men woman fully fund troops enemy iraq hit hard yet defeat still expect tough fight ahead objective come year sustain build gain make 2007 transition next phase strategy american troop shift lead operation partner iraqi force eventually protective overwatch mission part transition one army brigade combat team one marine expeditionary unit already come home replace coming month four additional brigade two marine battalion follow suit take together mean troop come home drawdown troop base condition iraq recommendation commander general petraeus warn fast drawdown could result quote disintegration iraqi security force al regain lose ground mark increase violence member congress come far achieve much must allow happen come year work iraqi leader build progress make toward political reconciliation local level sunni shi kurd begin come together reclaim community rebuild live progress province must match progress baghdad see encouraging sign national government share oil revenue province parliament recently pass pension law reform debate provincial power law iraqi still distance travel decade dictatorship pain sectarian violence reconciliation take place iraqi people take control future mission iraq difficult try nation vital interest unite state succeed free iraq deny al qaida safe free iraq show million across middle east future liberty possible free iraq friend america partner fight terror source stability dangerous part world contrast fail iraq would embolden extremist strengthen iran give terrorist base launch new attack friends ally homeland enemy make intention clear time momentum seem favor al qaida top commander iraq declare rest attack u washington fellow american rest either rest enemy defeat must difficult work today year people look back say generation rise moment prevail tough fight leave behind hopeful region safer america also stand force extremism holy land new hope palestinian elect president recognize confront terror essential achieve state people live dignity peace israel israeli leader recognize peaceful democratic palestinian state source last security month ramallah jerusalem assure leader side america everything help achieve peace agreement defines palestinian state end year time come holy land democratic israel democratic palestine live side side peace also stand force extremism embody regime tehran iran ruler oppress good talented people wherever freedom advance middle east seem iranian regime oppose iran funding training militia group iraq support hizballah terrorist lebanon back hamas effort undermine peace holy land tehran also develop ballistic missile increase range continue develop capability enrich uranium could use create nuclear weapon message people iran clear quarrel respect tradition history look forward day freedom message leader iran also clear verifiably suspend nuclear enrichment negotiation begin rejoin community nation come clean nuclear intention past action stop oppression home cease support terror abroad know america confront threaten troop stand ally defend vital interest persian gulf homefront continue take every lawful effective measure protect country solemn duty grateful another attack soil since lack desire effort part enemy past 6 year stop numerous attack include plot fly plane tallest build los angeles another blow passenger jet bound america atlantic dedicate men woman government toil day night stop terrorist carry plan good citizen save american life everyone chamber owes thanks owe something owe tool need keep people safe one important tool give ability monitor terrorist communication protect america need know terrorist talk say planning last year congress pass legislation help u unfortunately congress set legislation expire february 1st mean act friday ability track terrorist threat would weaken citizen great danger congress must ensure flow vital intelligence disrupt congress must pass liability protection company believe assisted effort defend america ample time debate time act protect nation danger new century require good intelligence strong military also require change condition breed resentment allow extremist prey despair america use influence build freer hopeful compassionate world reflection national interest call conscience america oppose genocide sudan support freedom country cuba zimbabwe belarus burma america lead fight global poverty strong education initiative humanitarian assistance also change way deliver aid launch millennium challenge account program strengthen democracy transparency rule law develop nation ask fully fund important initiative america lead fight global hunger today half world food aid come united state tonight ask congress support innovative proposal provide food assistance purchasing crop directly farmer develop world build local agriculture help break cycle famine america lead fight disease help work cut half number death 15 african nation emergency plan aid relief treat million people bring heal hope many ask maintain principle change behavior make program success call double initial commitment fight approve additional 30 billion next 5 year america force hope world compassionate people compassionate american step forward protect u must keep faith risked life limb might live freedom peace past 7 year increase funding veteran 95 percent increase funding must also reform veteran system meet need new war new generation call congress enact reform recommend senator bob dole secretary donna shalala improve system care wound warrior help build life hope promise dignity military family also sacrifice america endure sleepless night daily struggle provide child love one serve far home responsibility provide ask join expand access child care create new hiring preference military spouse across federal government allow troop transfer unused education benefit spouses child military family serve nation inspire nation tonight nation honor secret strength miracle america greatness lie government spirit determination people federal convention meet philadelphia 1787 nation bound article confederation begin word undersigned delegate gouverneur morris ask draft preamble new constitution offer important revision open word change course nation history world people trust people founder wager great noble nation could build liberty resides heart men woman trust people succeed generation transform fragile young democracy powerful nation earth beacon hope million long continue trust people nation prosper liberty secure state union remain strong tonight confidence freedom power trust people let u set forth business god bless america