Mr. President and Mr. Speaker and Members of the United States Congress: I come to this House of the people to speak to you and all Americans, certain that we stand at a defining hour. Halfway around the world, we are engaged in a great struggle in the skies and on the seas and sands. We know why we're there: We are Americans, part of something larger than ourselves. For two centuries, we've done the hard work of freedom. And tonight, we lead the world in facing down a threat to decency and humanity. What is at stake is more than one small country; it is a big idea: a new world order, where diverse nations are drawn together in common cause to achieve the universal aspirations of mankind -- peace and security, freedom, and the rule of law. Such is a world worthy of our struggle and worthy of our children's future. The community of nations has resolutely gathered to condemn and repel lawless aggression. Saddam Hussein's unprovoked invasion -- his ruthless, systematic rape of a peaceful neighbor -- violated everything the community of nations holds dear. The world has said this aggression would not stand, and it will not stand. Together, we have resisted the trap of appeasement, cynicism, and isolation that gives temptation to tyrants. The world has answered Saddam's invasion with 12 United Nations resolutions, starting with a demand for Iraq's immediate and unconditional withdrawal, and backed up by forces from 28 countries of 6 continents. With few exceptions, the world now stands as one. The end of the cold war has been a victory for all humanity. A year and a half ago, in Germany, I said that our goal was a Europe whole and free. Tonight, Germany is united. Europe has become whole and free, and America's leadership was instrumental in making it possible. Our relationship to the Soviet Union is important, not only to us but to the world. That relationship has helped to shape these and other historic changes. But like many other nations, we have been deeply concerned by the violence in the Baltics, and we have communicated that concern to the Soviet leadership. The principle that has guided us is simple: Our objective is to help the Baltic peoples achieve their aspirations, not to punish the Soviet Union. In our recent discussions with the Soviet leadership we have been given representations which, if fulfilled, would result in the withdrawal of some Soviet forces, a reopening of dialog with the Republics, and a move away from violence. We will watch carefully as the situation develops. And we will maintain our contact with the Soviet leadership to encourage continued commitment to democratization and reform. If it is possible, I want to continue to build a lasting basis for U.S.-Soviet cooperation -- for a more peaceful future for all mankind. The triumph of democratic ideas in Eastern Europe and Latin America and the continuing struggle for freedom elsewhere all around the world all confirm the wisdom of our nation's founders. Tonight, we work to achieve another victory, a victory over tyranny and savage aggression. We in this Union enter the last decade of the 20th century thankful for our blessings, steadfast in our purpose, aware of our difficulties, and responsive to our duties at home and around the world. For two centuries, America has served the world as an inspiring example of freedom and democracy. For generations, America has led the struggle to preserve and extend the blessings of liberty. And today, in a rapidly changing world, American leadership is indispensable. Americans know that leadership brings burdens and sacrifices. But we also know why the hopes of humanity turn to us. We are Americans; we have a unique responsibility to do the hard work of freedom. And when we do, freedom works. The conviction and courage we see in the Persian Gulf today is simply the American character in action. The indomitable spirit that is contributing to this victory for world peace and justice is the same spirit that gives us the power and the potential to meet our toughest challenges at home. We are resolute and resourceful. If we can selflessly confront the evil for the sake of good in a land so far away, then surely we can make this land all that it should be. If anyone tells you that America's best days are behind her, they're looking the wrong way. Tonight I come before this House and the American people with an appeal for renewal. This is not merely a call for new government initiatives; it is a call for new initiatives in government, in our communities, and from every American to prepare for the next American century. America has always led by example. So, who among us will set the example? Which of our citizens will lead us in this next American century? Everyone who steps forward today -- to get one addict off drugs, to convince one troubled teenager not to give up on life, to comfort one AIDS patient, to help one hungry child. We have within our reach the promise of a renewed America. We can find meaning and reward by serving some higher purpose than ourselves, a shining purpose, the illumination of a Thousand Points of Light. And it is expressed by all who know the irresistible force of a child's hand, of a friend who stands by you and stays there, a volunteer's generous gesture, an idea that is simply right. The problems before us may be different, but the key to solving them remains the same. It is the individual -- the individual who steps forward. And the state of our Union is the union of each of us, one to the other -- the sum of our friendships, marriages, families, and communities. We all have something to give. So, if you know how to read, find someone who can't. If you've got a hammer, find a nail. If you're not hungry, not lonely, not in trouble, seek out someone who is. Join the community of conscience. Do the hard work of freedom. And that will define the state of our Union. Since the birth of our nation, "We the People" has been the source of our strength. What government can do alone is limited, but the potential of the American people knows no limits. We are a nation of rock-solid realism and clear-eyed idealism. We are Americans. We are the Nation that believes in the future. We are the Nation that can shape the future. And we've begun to do just that, by strengthening the power and choice of individuals and families. Together, these last 2 years, we've put dollars for child care directly in the hands of parents instead of bureaucracies; unshackled the potential of Americans with disabilities; applied the creativity of the marketplace in the service of the environment, for clean air; and made home ownership possible for more Americans. The strength of a democracy is not in bureaucracy. It is in the people and their communities. In everything we do, let us unleash the potential of our most precious resource -- our citizens, our citizens themselves. We must return to families, communities, counties, cities, States, and institutions of every kind the power to chart their own destiny and the freedom and opportunity provided by strong economic growth. And that's what America is all about. I know that tonight, in some regions of our country, people are in genuine economic distress. And I hear them. Earlier this month, Kathy Blackwell, of Massachusetts, wrote me about what can happen when the economy slows down, saying, "My heart is aching, and I think that you should know your people out here are hurting badly." I understand, and I'm not unrealistic about the future. But there are reasons to be optimistic about our economy. First, we don't have to fight double-digit inflation. Second, most industries won't have to make big cuts in production because they don't have big inventories piled up. And third, our exports are running solid and strong. In fact, American businesses are exporting at a record rate. So, let's put these times in perspective. Together, since 1981, we've created almost 20 million jobs, cut inflation in half, and cut interest rates in half. And yes, the largest peacetime economic expansion in history has been temporarily interrupted. But our economy is still over twice as large as our closest competitor. We will get this recession behind us and return to growth soon. We will get on our way to a new record of expansion and achieve the competitive strength that will carry us into the next American century. We should focus our efforts today on encouraging economic growth, investing in the future, and giving power and opportunity to the individual. We must begin with control of Federal spending. That's why I'm submitting a budget that holds the growth in spending to less than the rate of inflation. And that's why, amid all the sound and fury of last year's budget debate, we put into law new, enforceable spending caps, so that future spending debates will mean a battle of ideas, not a bidding war. Though controversial, the budget agreement finally put the Federal Government on a pay-as-you-go plan and cut the growth of debt by nearly $500 billion. And that frees funds for saving and job-creating investment. Now, let's do more. My budget again includes tax-free family savings accounts; penalty-free withdrawals from IRA's for first-time home buyers; and to increase jobs and growth, a reduced tax for long-term capital gains. I know there are differences among us -- [laughter] -- about the impact and the effects of a capital gains incentive. So tonight, I'm asking the congressional leaders and the Federal Reserve to cooperate with us in a study, led by Chairman Alan Greenspan, to sort out our technical differences so that we can avoid a return to unproductive partisan bickering. But just as our efforts will bring economic growth now and in the future, they must also be matched by long-term investments for the next American century. That requires a forward-looking plan of action, and that's exactly what we will be sending to the Congress. We've prepared a detailed series of proposals that include: a budget that promotes investment in America's future -- in children, education, infrastructure, space, and high technology; legislation to achieve excellence in education, building on the partnership forged with the 50 Governors at the education summit, enabling parents to choose their children's schools and helping to make America number one in math and science; a blueprint for a new national highway system, a critical investment in our transportation infrastructure; a research and development agenda that includes record levels of Federal investment, and a permanent tax credit to strengthen private R&D and to create jobs; a comprehensive national energy strategy that calls for energy conservation and efficiency, increased development, and greater use of alternative fuels; a banking reform plan to bring America's financial system into the 21st century so that our banks remain safe and secure and can continue to make job-creating loans for our factories, our businesses, and home buyers. You know, I do think there has been too much pessimism. Sound banks should be making sound loans now, and interest rates should be lower, now. In addition to these proposals, we must recognize that our economic strength depends on being competitive in world markets. We must continue to expand American exports. A successful Uruguay round of world trade negotiations will create more real jobs and more real growth for all nations. You and I know that if the playing field is level, America's workers and farmers can out-work, out-produce anyone, anytime, anywhere. And with a Mexican free trade agreement and our Enterprise for the Americas Initiative, we can help our partners strengthen their economies and move toward a free trade zone throughout this entire hemisphere. The budget also includes a plan of action right here at home to put more power and opportunity in the hands of the individual. And that means new incentives to create jobs in our inner cities by encouraging investment through enterprise zones. It also means tenant control and ownership of public housing. Freedom and the power to choose should not be the privilege of wealth. They are the birthright of every American. Civil rights are also crucial to protecting equal opportunity. Every one of us has a responsibility to speak out against racism, bigotry, and hate. We will continue our vigorous enforcement of existing statutes, and I will once again press the Congress to strengthen the laws against employment discrimination without resorting to the use of unfair preferences. We're determined to protect another fundamental civil right: freedom from crime and the fear that stalks our cities. The Attorney General will soon convene a crime summit of our nation's law enforcement officials. And to help us support them, we need tough crime control legislation, and we need it now. And as we fight crime, we will fully implement our national strategy for combating drug abuse. Recent data show that we are making progress, but much remains to be done. We will not rest until the day of the dealer is over, forever. Good health care is every American's right and every American's responsibility. And so, we are proposing an aggressive program of new prevention initiatives -- for infants, for children, for adults, and for the elderly -- to promote a healthier America and to help keep costs from spiraling. It's time to give people more choice in government by reviving the ideal of the citizen politician who comes not to stay but to serve. And one of the reasons that there is so much support across this country for term limitations is that the American people are increasingly concerned about big-money influence in politics. So, we must look beyond the next election to the next generation. And the time has come to put the national interest above the special interest and to totally eliminate political action committees. And that would truly put more competition in elections and more power in the hands of individuals. And where power cannot be put directly in the hands of the individual, it should be moved closer to the people, away from Washington. The Federal Government too often treats government programs as if they are of Washington, by Washington, and for Washington. Once established, Federal programs seem to become immortal. It's time for a more dynamic program life cycle. Some programs should increase. Some should decrease. Some should be terminated. And some should be consolidated and turned over to the States. My budget includes a list of programs for potential turnover totaling more than $20 billion. Working with Congress and the Governors, I propose we select at least $15 billion in such programs and turn them over to the States in a single consolidated grant, fully funded, for flexible management by the States. The value, the value of this turnover approach is straightforward. It allows the Federal Government to reduce overhead. It allows States to manage more flexibly and more efficiently. It moves power and decisionmaking closer to the people. And it reinforces a theme of this administration: appreciation and encouragement of the innovative powers of States as laboratories. This nation was founded by leaders who understood that power belongs in the hands of people. And they planned for the future. And so must we, here and all around the world. As Americans, we know that there are times when we must step forward and accept our responsibility to lead the world away from the dark chaos of dictators, toward the brighter promise of a better day. Almost 50 years ago we began a long struggle against aggressive totalitarianism. Now we face another defining hour for America and the world. There is no one more devoted, more committed to the hard work of freedom than every soldier and sailor, every marine, airman, and coastguardsman, every man and woman now serving in the Persian Gulf. Oh, how they deserve -- [applause] -- and what a fitting tribute to them. You see -- what a wonderful, fitting tribute to them. Each of them has volunteered, volunteered to provide for this nation's defense, and now they bravely struggle to earn for America, for the world, and for future generations a just and lasting peace. Our commitment to them must be equal to their commitment to their country. They are truly America's finest. The war in the Gulf is not a war we wanted. We worked hard to avoid war. For more than 5 months we -- along with the Arab League, the European Community, the United Nations -- tried every diplomatic avenue. U.N. Secretary-General Perez de Cuellar; Presidents Gorbachev, Mitterrand, Ozal, Mubarak, and Bendjedid; Kings Fahd and Hassan; Prime Ministers Major and Andreotti -- just to name a few -- all worked for a solution. But time and again, Saddam Hussein flatly rejected the path of diplomacy and peace. The world well knows how this conflict began and when: It began on August 2d, when Saddam invaded and sacked a small, defenseless neighbor. And I am certain of how it will end. So that peace can prevail, we will prevail. [Applause] Thank you. Tonight I am pleased to report that we are on course. Iraq's capacity to sustain war is being destroyed. Our investment, our training, our planning -- all are paying off. Time will not be Saddam's salvation. Our purpose in the Persian Gulf remains constant: to drive Iraq out of Kuwait, to restore Kuwait's legitimate government, and to ensure the stability and security of this critical region. Let me make clear what I mean by the region's stability and security. We do not seek the destruction of Iraq, its culture, or its people. Rather, we seek an Iraq that uses its great resources not to destroy, not to serve the ambitions of a tyrant, but to build a better life for itself and its neighbors. We seek a Persian Gulf where conflict is no longer the rule, where the strong are neither tempted nor able to intimidate the weak. Most Americans know instinctively why we are in the Gulf. They know we had to stop Saddam now, not later. They know that this brutal dictator will do anything, will use any weapon, will commit any outrage, no matter how many innocents suffer. They know we must make sure that control of the world's oil resources does not fall into his hands, only to finance further aggression. They know that we need to build a new, enduring peace, based not on arms races and confrontation but on shared principles and the rule of law. And we all realize that our responsibility to be the catalyst for peace in the region does not end with the successful conclusion of this war. Democracy brings the undeniable value of thoughtful dissent, and we've heard some dissenting voices here at home -- some, a handful, reckless; most responsible. But the fact that all voices have the right to speak out is one of the reasons we've been united in purpose and principle for 200 years. Our progress in this great struggle is the result of years of vigilance and a steadfast commitment to a strong defense. Now, with remarkable technological advances like the Patriot missile, we can defend against ballistic missile attacks aimed at innocent civilians. Looking forward, I have directed that the SDI program be refocused on providing protection from limited ballistic missile strikes, whatever their source. Let us pursue an SDI program that can deal with any future threat to the United States, to our forces overseas, and to our friends and allies. The quality of American technology, thanks to the American worker, has enabled us to successfully deal with difficult military conditions and help minimize precious loss of life. We have given our men and women the very best. And they deserve it. We all have a special place in our hearts for the families of our men and women serving in the Gulf. They are represented here tonight by Mrs. Norman Schwarzkopf. We are all very grateful to General Schwarzkopf and to all those serving with him. And I might also recognize one who came with Mrs. Schwarzkopf: Alma Powell, the wife of the distinguished Chairman of the Joint Chiefs. And to the families, let me say our forces in the Gulf will not stay there one day longer than is necessary to complete their mission. The courage and success of the RAF pilots, of the Kuwaiti, Saudi, French, the Canadians, the Italians, the pilots of Qatar and Bahrain -- all are proof that for the first time since World War II, the international community is united. The leadership of the United Nations, once only a hoped-for ideal, is now confirming its founders' vision. I am heartened that we are not being asked to bear alone the financial burdens of this struggle. Last year, our friends and allies provided the bulk of the economic costs of Desert Shield. And now, having received commitments of over $40 billion for the first 3 months of 1991, I am confident they will do no less as we move through Desert Storm. But the world has to wonder what the dictator of Iraq is thinking. If he thinks that by targeting innocent civilians in Israel and Saudi Arabia, that he will gain advantage, he is dead wrong. If he thinks that he will advance his cause through tragic and despicable environmental terrorism, he is dead wrong. And if he thinks that by abusing the coalition prisoners of war he will benefit, he is dead wrong. We will succeed in the Gulf. And when we do, the world community will have sent an enduring warning to any dictator or despot, present or future, who contemplates outlaw aggression. The world can, therefore, seize this opportunity to fulfill the long-held promise of a new world order, where brutality will go unrewarded and aggression will meet collective resistance. Yes, the United States bears a major share of leadership in this effort. Among the nations of the world, only the United States of America has both the moral standing and the means to back it up. We're the only nation on this Earth that could assemble the forces of peace. This is the burden of leadership and the strength that has made America the beacon of freedom in a searching world. This nation has never found glory in war. Our people have never wanted to abandon the blessings of home and work for distant lands and deadly conflict. If we fight in anger, it is only because we have to fight at all. And all of us yearn for a world where we will never have to fight again. Each of us will measure within ourselves the value of this great struggle. Any cost in lives -- any cost -- is beyond our power to measure. But the cost of closing our eyes to aggression is beyond mankind's power to imagine. This we do know: Our cause is just; our cause is moral; our cause is right. Let future generations understand the burden and the blessings of freedom. Let them say we stood where duty required us to stand. Let them know that, together, we affirmed America and the world as a community of conscience. The winds of change are with us now. The forces of freedom are together, united. We move toward the next century more confident than ever that we have the will at home and abroad to do what must be done -- the hard work of freedom. May God bless the United States of America. Thank you very, very much.
Mr. President and Mr. Speaker and Members of the United States Congress: I come to this House of the people to speak to you and all Americans, certain that we stand at a defining hour. Halfway around the world, we are engaged in a great struggle in the skies and on the seas and sands. We know why we are there: We are Americans, part of something larger than ourselves. For two centuries, we have done the hard work of freedom. And tonight, we lead the world in facing down a threat to decency and humanity. What is at stake is more than one small country; it is a big idea: a new world order, where diverse nations are drawn together in common because to achieve the universal aspirations of mankind -- peace and security, freedom, and the rule of law. Such is a world worthy of our struggle and worthy of our children's future. The community of nations has resolutely gathered to condemn and repel lawless aggression. Saddam Hussein's unprovoked invasion -- his ruthless, systematic rape of a peaceful neighbor -- violated everything the community of nations holds dear. The world has said this aggression would not stand, and it will not stand. Together, we have resisted the trap of appeasement, cynicism, and isolation that gives temptation to tyrants. The world has answered Saddam's invasion with 12 United Nations resolutions, starting with a demand for Iraq's immediate and unconditional withdrawal, and backed up by forces from 28 countries of 6 continents. With few exceptions, the world now stands as one. The end of the cold war has been a victory for all humanity. A year and a half ago, in Germany, I said that our goal was a Europe whole and free. Tonight, Germany is united. Europe has become whole and free, and America's leadership was instrumental in making it possible. Our relationship to the Soviet Union is important, not only to us but to the world. That relationship has helped to shape these and other historic changes. But like many other nations, we have been deeply concerned by the violence in the Baltics, and we have communicated that concern to the Soviet leadership. The principle that has guided us is simple: Our objective is to help the Baltic peoples achieve their aspirations, not to punish the Soviet Union. In our recent discussions with the Soviet leadership we have been given representations which, if fulfilled, would result in the withdrawal of some Soviet forces, a reopening of dialog with the Republics, and a move away from violence. We will watch carefully as the situation develops. And we will maintain our contact with the Soviet leadership to encourage continued commitment to democratization and reform. If it is possible, I want to continue to build a lasting basis for YOU.S.-Soviet cooperation -- for a more peaceful future for all mankind. The triumph of democratic ideas in Eastern Europe and Latin America and the continuing struggle for freedom elsewhere all around the world all confirm the wisdom of our nation's founders. Tonight, we work to achieve another victory, a victory over tyranny and savage aggression. We in this Union enter the last decade of the 20th century thankful for our blessings, steadfast in our purpose, aware of our difficulties, and responsive to our duties at home and around the world. For two centuries, America has served the world as an inspiring example of freedom and democracy. For generations, America has led the struggle to preserve and extend the blessings of liberty. And today, in a rapidly changing world, American leadership is indispensable. Americans know that leadership brings burdens and sacrifices. But we also know why the hopes of humanity turn to us. We are Americans; we have a unique responsibility to do the hard work of freedom. And when we do, freedom works. The conviction and courage we see in the Persian Gulf today is simply the American character in action. The indomitable spirit that is contributing to this victory for world peace and justice is the same spirit that gives us the power and the potential to meet our toughest challenges at home. We are resolute and resourceful. If we can selflessly confront the evil for the sake of good in a land so far away, then surely we can make this land all that it should be. If anyone tells you that America's best days are behind her, they are looking the wrong way. Tonight I come before this House and the American people with an appeal for renewal. This is not merely a call for new government initiatives; it is a call for new initiatives in government, in our communities, and from every American to prepare for the next American century. America has always led by example. So, who among us will set the example? Which of our citizens will lead us in this next American century? Everyone who steps forward today -- to get one addict off drugs, to convince one troubled teenager not to give up on life, to comfort one AIDS patient, to help one hungry child. We have within our reach the promise of a renewed America. We can find meaning and reward by serving some higher purpose than ourselves, a shining purpose, the illumination of a Thousand Points of Light. And it is expressed by all who know the irresistible force of a child's hand, of a friend who stands by you and stays there, a volunteer's generous gesture, an idea that is simply right. The problems before us may be different, but the key to solving them remains the same. It is the individual -- the individual who steps forward. And the state of our Union is the union of each of us, one to the other -- the sum of our friendships, marriages, families, and communities. We all have something to give. So, if you know how to read, find someone who cannot. If you have got a hammer, find a nail. If you are not hungry, not lonely, not in trouble, seek out someone who is. Join the community of conscience. Do the hard work of freedom. And that will define the state of our Union. Since the birth of our nation, "We the People" has been the source of our strength. What government can do alone is limited, but the potential of the American people knows no limits. We are a nation of rock-solid realism and clear-eyed idealism. We are Americans. We are the Nation that believes in the future. We are the Nation that can shape the future. And we have begun to do just that, by strengthening the power and choice of individuals and families. Together, these last 2 years, we have put dollars for child care directly in the hands of parents instead of bureaucracies; unshackled the potential of Americans with disabilities; applied the creativity of the marketplace in the service of the environment, for clean air; and made home ownership possible for more Americans. The strength of a democracy is not in bureaucracy. It is in the people and their communities. In everything we do, let us unleash the potential of our most precious resource -- our citizens, our citizens themselves. We must return to families, communities, counties, cities, States, and institutions of every kind the power to chart their own destiny and the freedom and opportunity provided by strong economic growth. And that is what America is all about. I know that tonight, in some regions of our country, people are in genuine economic distress. And I hear them. Earlier this month, Kathy Blackwell, of Massachusetts, wrote me about what can happen when the economy slows down, saying, "My heart is aching, and I think that you should know your people out here are hurting badly." I understand, and I am not unrealistic about the future. But there are reasons to be optimistic about our economy. First, we do not have to fight double-digit inflation. Second, most industries will not have to make big cuts in production because they do not have big inventories piled up. And third, our exports are running solid and strong. In fact, American businesses are exporting at a record rate. So, let us put these times in perspective. Together, since 1981, we have created almost 20 million jobs, cut inflation in half, and cut interest rates in half. And yes, the largest peacetime economic expansion in history has been temporarily interrupted. But our economy is still over twice as large as our closest competitor. We will get this recession behind us and return to growth soon. We will get on our way to a new record of expansion and achieve the competitive strength that will carry us into the next American century. We should focus our efforts today on encouraging economic growth, investing in the future, and giving power and opportunity to the individual. We must begin with control of Federal spending. That is why I am submitting a budget that holds the growth in spending to less than the rate of inflation. And that is why, amid all the sound and fury of last year's budget debate, we put into law new, enforceable spending caps, so that future spending debates will mean a battle of ideas, not a bidding war. Though controversial, the budget agreement finally put the Federal Government on a pay-as-you-go plan and cut the growth of debt by nearly $500 billion. And that frees funds for saving and job-creating investment. Now, let us do more. My budget again includes tax-free family savings accounts; penalty-free withdrawals from IRA's for first-time home buyers; and to increase jobs and growth, a reduced tax for long-term capital gains. I know there are differences among us -- [laughter] -- about the impact and the effects of a capital gains incentive. So tonight, I am asking the congressional leaders and the Federal Reserve to cooperate with us in a study, led by Chairman Alan Greenspan, to sort out our technical differences so that we can avoid a return to unproductive partisan bickering. But just as our efforts will bring economic growth now and in the future, they must also be matched by long-term investments for the next American century. That requires a forward-looking plan of action, and that is exactly what we will be sending to the Congress. We have prepared a detailed series of proposals that include: a budget that promotes investment in America's future -- in children, education, infrastructure, space, and high technology; legislation to achieve excellence in education, building on the partnership forged with the 50 Governors at the education summit, enabling parents to choose their children's schools and helping to make America number one in math and science; a blueprint for a new national highway system, a critical investment in our transportation infrastructure; a research and development agenda that includes record levels of Federal investment, and a permanent tax credit to strengthen private R&D and to create jobs; a comprehensive national energy strategy that calls for energy conservation and efficiency, increased development, and greater use of alternative fuels; a banking reform plan to bring America's financial system into the 21st century so that our banks remain safe and secure and can continue to make job-creating loans for our factories, our businesses, and home buyers. You know, I do think there has been too much pessimism. Sound banks should be making sound loans now, and interest rates should be lower, now. In addition to these proposals, we must recognize that our economic strength depends on being competitive in world markets. We must continue to expand American exports. A successful Uruguay round of world trade negotiations will create more real jobs and more real growth for all nations. You and I know that if the playing field is level, America's workers and farmers can out-work, out-produce anyone, anytime, anywhere. And with a Mexican free trade agreement and our Enterprise for the Americas Initiative, we can help our partners strengthen their economies and move toward a free trade zone throughout this entire hemisphere. The budget also includes a plan of action right here at home to put more power and opportunity in the hands of the individual. And that means new incentives to create jobs in our inner cities by encouraging investment through enterprise zones. It also means tenant control and ownership of public housing. Freedom and the power to choose should not be the privilege of wealth. They are the birthright of every American. Civil rights are also crucial to protecting equal opportunity. Every one of us has a responsibility to speak out against racism, bigotry, and hate. We will continue our vigorous enforcement of existing statutes, and I will once again press the Congress to strengthen the laws against employment discrimination without resorting to the use of unfair preferences. We are determined to protect another fundamental civil right: freedom from crime and the fear that stalks our cities. The Attorney General will soon convene a crime summit of our nation's law enforcement officials. And to help us support them, we need tough crime control legislation, and we need it now. And as we fight crime, we will fully implement our national strategy for combating drug abuse. Recent data show that we are making progress, but much remains to be done. We will not rest until the day of the dealer is over, forever. Good health care is every American's right and every American's responsibility. And so, we are proposing an aggressive program of new prevention initiatives -- for infants, for children, for adults, and for the elderly -- to promote a healthier America and to help keep costs from spiraling. It is time to give people more choice in government by reviving the ideal of the citizen politician who comes not to stay but to serve. And one of the reasons that there is so much support across this country for term limitations is that the American people are increasingly concerned about big-money influence in politics. So, we must look beyond the next election to the next generation. And the time has come to put the national interest above the special interest and to totally eliminate political action committees. And that would truly put more competition in elections and more power in the hands of individuals. And where power cannot be put directly in the hands of the individual, it should be moved closer to the people, away from Washington. The Federal Government too often treats government programs as if they are of Washington, by Washington, and for Washington. Once established, Federal programs seem to become immortal. It is time for a more dynamic program life cycle. Some programs should increase. Some should decrease. Some should be terminated. And some should be consolidated and turned over to the States. My budget includes a list of programs for potential turnover totaling more than $20 billion. Working with Congress and the Governors, I propose we select at least $15 billion in such programs and turn them over to the States in a single consolidated grant, fully funded, for flexible management by the States. The value, the value of this turnover approach is straightforward. It allows the Federal Government to reduce overhead. It allows States to manage more flexibly and more efficiently. It moves power and decisionmaking closer to the people. And it reinforces a theme of this administration: appreciation and encouragement of the innovative powers of States as laboratories. This nation was founded by leaders who understood that power belongs in the hands of people. And they planned for the future. And so must we, here and all around the world. As Americans, we know that there are times when we must step forward and accept our responsibility to lead the world away from the dark chaos of dictators, toward the brighter promise of a better day. Almost 50 years ago we began a long struggle against aggressive totalitarianism. Now we face another defining hour for America and the world. There is no one more devoted, more committed to the hard work of freedom than every soldier and sailor, every marine, airman, and coastguardsman, every man and woman now serving in the Persian Gulf. Oh, how they deserve -- [applause] -- and what a fitting tribute to them. You see -- what a wonderful, fitting tribute to them. Each of them has volunteered, volunteered to provide for this nation's defense, and now they bravely struggle to earn for America, for the world, and for future generations a just and lasting peace. Our commitment to them must be equal to their commitment to their country. They are truly America's finest. The war in the Gulf is not a war we wanted. We worked hard to avoid war. For more than 5 months we -- along with the Arab League, the European Community, the United Nations -- tried every diplomatic avenue. YOU.N. Secretary-General Perez de Cuellar; Presidents Gorbachev, Mitterrand, Ozal, Mubarak, and Bendjedid; Kings Fahd and Hassan; Prime Ministers Major and Andreotti -- just to name a few -- all worked for a solution. But time and again, Saddam Hussein flatly rejected the path of diplomacy and peace. The world well knows how this conflict began and when: It began on August 2d, when Saddam invaded and sacked a small, defenseless neighbor. And I am certain of how it will end. So that peace can prevail, we will prevail. [Applause] Thank you. Tonight I am pleased to report that we are on course. Iraq's capacity to sustain war is being destroyed. Our investment, our training, our planning -- all are paying off. Time will not be Saddam's salvation. Our purpose in the Persian Gulf remains constant: to drive Iraq out of Kuwait, to restore Kuwait's legitimate government, and to ensure the stability and security of this critical region. Let me make clear what I mean by the region's stability and security. We do not seek the destruction of Iraq, its culture, or its people. Rather, we seek an Iraq that uses its great resources not to destroy, not to serve the ambitions of a tyrant, but to build a better life for itself and its neighbors. We seek a Persian Gulf where conflict is no longer the rule, where the strong are neither tempted nor able to intimidate the weak. Most Americans know instinctively why we are in the Gulf. They know we had to stop Saddam now, not later. They know that this brutal dictator will do anything, will use any weapon, will commit any outrage, no matter how many innocents suffer. They know we must make sure that control of the world's oil resources does not fall into his hands, only to finance further aggression. They know that we need to build a new, enduring peace, based not on arms races and confrontation but on shared principles and the rule of law. And we all realize that our responsibility to be the catalyst for peace in the region does not end with the successful conclusion of this war. Democracy brings the undeniable value of thoughtful dissent, and we have heard some dissenting voices here at home -- some, a handful, reckless; most responsible. But the fact that all voices have the right to speak out is one of the reasons we have been united in purpose and principle for 200 years. Our progress in this great struggle is the result of years of vigilance and a steadfast commitment to a strong defense. Now, with remarkable technological advances like the Patriot missile, we can defend against ballistic missile attacks aimed at innocent civilians. Looking forward, I have directed that the SDI program be refocused on providing protection from limited ballistic missile strikes, whatever their source. Let us pursue an SDI program that can deal with any future threat to the United States, to our forces overseas, and to our friends and allies. The quality of American technology, thanks to the American worker, has enabled us to successfully deal with difficult military conditions and help minimize precious loss of life. We have given our men and women the very best. And they deserve it. We all have a special place in our hearts for the families of our men and women serving in the Gulf. They are represented here tonight by Mrs. Norman Schwarzkopf. We are all very grateful to General Schwarzkopf and to all those serving with him. And I might also recognize one who came with Mrs. Schwarzkopf: Alma Powell, the wife of the distinguished Chairman of the Joint Chiefs. And to the families, let me say our forces in the Gulf will not stay there one day longer than is necessary to complete their mission. The courage and success of the RAF pilots, of the Kuwaiti, Saudi, French, the Canadians, the Italians, the pilots of Qatar and Bahrain -- all are proof that for the first time since World War II, the international community is united. The leadership of the United Nations, once only a hoped-for ideal, is now confirming its founders' vision. I am heartened that we are not being asked to bear alone the financial burdens of this struggle. Last year, our friends and allies provided the bulk of the economic costs of Desert Shield. And now, having received commitments of over $40 billion for the first 3 months of 1991, I am confident they will do no less as we move through Desert Storm. But the world has to wonder what the dictator of Iraq is thinking. If he thinks that by targeting innocent civilians in Israel and Saudi Arabia, that he will gain advantage, he is dead wrong. If he thinks that he will advance his because through tragic and despicable environmental terrorism, he is dead wrong. And if he thinks that by abusing the coalition prisoners of war he will benefit, he is dead wrong. We will succeed in the Gulf. And when we do, the world community will have sent an enduring warning to any dictator or despot, present or future, who contemplates outlaw aggression. The world can, therefore, seize this opportunity to fulfill the long-held promise of a new world order, where brutality will go unrewarded and aggression will meet collective resistance. Yes, the United States bears a major share of leadership in this effort. Among the nations of the world, only the United States of America has both the moral standing and the means to back it up. We are the only nation on this Earth that could assemble the forces of peace. This is the burden of leadership and the strength that has made America the beacon of freedom in a searching world. This nation has never found glory in war. Our people have never wanted to abandon the blessings of home and work for distant lands and deadly conflict. If we fight in anger, it is only because we have to fight at all. And all of us yearn for a world where we will never have to fight again. Each of us will measure within ourselves the value of this great struggle. Any cost in lives -- any cost -- is beyond our power to measure. But the cost of closing our eyes to aggression is beyond mankind's power to imagine. This we do know: Our because is just; our because is moral; our because is right. Let future generations understand the burden and the blessings of freedom. Let them say we stood where duty required us to stand. Let them know that, together, we affirmed America and the world as a community of conscience. The winds of change are with us now. The forces of freedom are together, united. We move toward the next century more confident than ever that we have the will at home and abroad to do what must be done -- the hard work of freedom. May God bless the United States of America. Thank you very, very much.
president and speaker and members of the united states congress i come to this house of the people to speak to you and all americans certain that we stand at a defining hour halfway around the world we are engaged in a great struggle in the skies and on the seas and sands we know why we are there we are americans part of something larger than ourselves for two centuries we have done the hard work of freedom and tonight we lead the world in facing down a threat to decency and humanity what is at stake is more than one small country it is a big idea a new world order where diverse nations are drawn together in common because to achieve the universal aspirations of mankind peace and security freedom and the rule of law such is a world worthy of our struggle and worthy of our children future the community of nations has resolutely gathered to condemn and repel lawless aggression saddam hussein unprovoked invasion his ruthless systematic rape of a peaceful neighbor violated everything the community of nations holds dear the world has said this aggression would not stand and it will not stand together we have resisted the trap of appeasement cynicism and isolation that gives temptation to tyrants the world has answered saddam invasion with 12 united nations resolutions starting with a demand for iraq immediate and unconditional withdrawal and backed up by forces from 28 countries of 6 continents with few exceptions the world now stands as one the end of the cold war has been a victory for all humanity a year and a half ago in germany i said that our goal was a europe whole and free tonight germany is united europe has become whole and free and america leadership was instrumental in making it possible our relationship to the soviet union is important not only to us but to the world that relationship has helped to shape these and other historic changes but like many other nations we have been deeply concerned by the violence in the baltics and we have communicated that concern to the soviet leadership the principle that has guided us is simple our objective is to help the baltic peoples achieve their aspirations not to punish the soviet union in our recent discussions with the soviet leadership we have been given representations which if fulfilled would result in the withdrawal of some soviet forces a reopening of dialog with the republics and a move away from violence we will watch carefully as the situation develops and we will maintain our contact with the soviet leadership to encourage continued commitment to democratization and reform if it is possible i want to continue to build a lasting basis for cooperation for a more peaceful future for all mankind the triumph of democratic ideas in eastern europe and latin america and the continuing struggle for freedom elsewhere all around the world all confirm the wisdom of our nation founders tonight we work to achieve another victory a victory over tyranny and savage aggression we in this union enter the last decade of the 20th century thankful for our blessings steadfast in our purpose aware of our difficulties and responsive to our duties at home and around the world for two centuries america has served the world as an inspiring example of freedom and democracy for generations america has led the struggle to preserve and extend the blessings of liberty and today in a rapidly changing world american leadership is indispensable americans know that leadership brings burdens and sacrifices but we also know why the hopes of humanity turn to us we are americans we have a unique responsibility to do the hard work of freedom and when we do freedom works the conviction and courage we see in the persian gulf today is simply the american character in action the indomitable spirit that is contributing to this victory for world peace and justice is the same spirit that gives us the power and the potential to meet our toughest challenges at home we are resolute and resourceful if we can selflessly confront the evil for the sake of good in a land so far away then surely we can make this land all that it should be if anyone tells you that america best days are behind her they are looking the wrong way tonight i come before this house and the american people with an appeal for renewal this is not merely a call for new government initiatives it is a call for new initiatives in government in our communities and from every american to prepare for the next american century america has always led by example so who among us will set the example which of our citizens will lead us in this next american century everyone who steps forward today to get one addict off drugs to convince one troubled teenager not to give up on life to comfort one aids patient to help one hungry child we have within our reach the promise of a renewed america we can find meaning and reward by serving some higher purpose than ourselves a shining purpose the illumination of a thousand points of light and it is expressed by all who know the irresistible force of a child hand of a friend who stands by you and stays there a volunteer generous gesture an idea that is simply right the problems before us may be different but the key to solving them remains the same it is the individual the individual who steps forward and the state of our union is the union of each of us one to the other the sum of our friendships marriages families and communities we all have something to give so if you know how to read find someone who can not if you have got a hammer find a nail if you are not hungry not lonely not in trouble seek out someone who is join the community of conscience do the hard work of freedom and that will define the state of our union since the birth of our nation we the people has been the source of our strength what government can do alone is limited but the potential of the american people knows no limits we are a nation of realism and idealism we are americans we are the nation that believes in the future we are the nation that can shape the future and we have begun to do just that by strengthening the power and choice of individuals and families together these last 2 years we have put dollars for child care directly in the hands of parents instead of bureaucracies unshackled the potential of americans with disabilities applied the creativity of the marketplace in the service of the environment for clean air and made home ownership possible for more americans the strength of a democracy is not in bureaucracy it is in the people and their communities in everything we do let us unleash the potential of our most precious resource our citizens our citizens themselves we must return to families communities counties cities states and institutions of every kind the power to chart their own destiny and the freedom and opportunity provided by strong economic growth and that is what america is all about i know that tonight in some regions of our country people are in genuine economic distress and i hear them earlier this month kathy blackwell of massachusetts wrote me about what can happen when the economy slows down saying my heart is aching and i think that you should know your people out here are hurting badly i understand and i am not unrealistic about the future but there are reasons to be optimistic about our economy first we do not have to fight inflation second most industries will not have to make big cuts in production because they do not have big inventories piled up and third our exports are running solid and strong in fact american businesses are exporting at a record rate so let us put these times in perspective together since 1981 we have created almost 20 million jobs cut inflation in half and cut interest rates in half and yes the largest peacetime economic expansion in history has been temporarily interrupted but our economy is still over twice as large as our closest competitor we will get this recession behind us and return to growth soon we will get on our way to a new record of expansion and achieve the competitive strength that will carry us into the next american century we should focus our efforts today on encouraging economic growth investing in the future and giving power and opportunity to the individual we must begin with control of federal spending that is why i am submitting a budget that holds the growth in spending to less than the rate of inflation and that is why amid all the sound and fury of last year budget debate we put into law new enforceable spending caps so that future spending debates will mean a battle of ideas not a bidding war though controversial the budget agreement finally put the federal government on a plan and cut the growth of debt by nearly 500 billion and that frees funds for saving and investment now let us do more my budget again includes family savings accounts withdrawals from ira for home buyers and to increase jobs and growth a reduced tax for capital gains i know there are differences among us laughter about the impact and the effects of a capital gains incentive so tonight i am asking the congressional leaders and the federal reserve to cooperate with us in a study led by chairman alan greenspan to sort out our technical differences so that we can avoid a return to unproductive partisan bickering but just as our efforts will bring economic growth now and in the future they must also be matched by investments for the next american century that requires a plan of action and that is exactly what we will be sending to the congress we have prepared a detailed series of proposals that include a budget that promotes investment in america future in children education infrastructure space and high technology legislation to achieve excellence in education building on the partnership forged with the 50 governors at the education summit enabling parents to choose their children schools and helping to make america number one in math and science a blueprint for a new national highway system a critical investment in our transportation infrastructure a research and development agenda that includes record levels of federal investment and a permanent tax credit to strengthen private r d and to create jobs a comprehensive national energy strategy that calls for energy conservation and efficiency increased development and greater use of alternative fuels a banking reform plan to bring america financial system into the 21st century so that our banks remain safe and secure and can continue to make loans for our factories our businesses and home buyers you know i do think there has been too much pessimism sound banks should be making sound loans now and interest rates should be lower now in addition to these proposals we must recognize that our economic strength depends on being competitive in world markets we must continue to expand american exports a successful uruguay round of world trade negotiations will create more real jobs and more real growth for all nations you and i know that if the playing field is level america workers and farmers can anyone anytime anywhere and with a mexican free trade agreement and our enterprise for the americas initiative we can help our partners strengthen their economies and move toward a free trade zone throughout this entire hemisphere the budget also includes a plan of action right here at home to put more power and opportunity in the hands of the individual and that means new incentives to create jobs in our inner cities by encouraging investment through enterprise zones it also means tenant control and ownership of public housing freedom and the power to choose should not be the privilege of wealth they are the birthright of every american civil rights are also crucial to protecting equal opportunity every one of us has a responsibility to speak out against racism bigotry and hate we will continue our vigorous enforcement of existing statutes and i will once again press the congress to strengthen the laws against employment discrimination without resorting to the use of unfair preferences we are determined to protect another fundamental civil right freedom from crime and the fear that stalks our cities the attorney general will soon convene a crime summit of our nation law enforcement officials and to help us support them we need tough crime control legislation and we need it now and as we fight crime we will fully implement our national strategy for combating drug abuse recent data show that we are making progress but much remains to be done we will not rest until the day of the dealer is over forever good health care is every american right and every american responsibility and so we are proposing an aggressive program of new prevention initiatives for infants for children for adults and for the elderly to promote a healthier america and to help keep costs from spiraling it is time to give people more choice in government by reviving the ideal of the citizen politician who comes not to stay but to serve and one of the reasons that there is so much support across this country for term limitations is that the american people are increasingly concerned about influence in politics so we must look beyond the next election to the next generation and the time has come to put the national interest above the special interest and to totally eliminate political action committees and that would truly put more competition in elections and more power in the hands of individuals and where power can not be put directly in the hands of the individual it should be moved closer to the people away from washington the federal government too often treats government programs as if they are of washington by washington and for washington once established federal programs seem to become immortal it is time for a more dynamic program life cycle some programs should increase some should decrease some should be terminated and some should be consolidated and turned over to the states my budget includes a list of programs for potential turnover totaling more than 20 billion working with congress and the governors i propose we select at least 15 billion in such programs and turn them over to the states in a single consolidated grant fully funded for flexible management by the states the value the value of this turnover approach is straightforward it allows the federal government to reduce overhead it allows states to manage more flexibly and more efficiently it moves power and decisionmaking closer to the people and it reinforces a theme of this administration appreciation and encouragement of the innovative powers of states as laboratories this nation was founded by leaders who understood that power belongs in the hands of people and they planned for the future and so must we here and all around the world as americans we know that there are times when we must step forward and accept our responsibility to lead the world away from the dark chaos of dictators toward the brighter promise of a better day almost 50 years ago we began a long struggle against aggressive totalitarianism now we face another defining hour for america and the world there is no one more devoted more committed to the hard work of freedom than every soldier and sailor every marine airman and coastguardsman every man and woman now serving in the persian gulf oh how they deserve applause and what a fitting tribute to them you see what a wonderful fitting tribute to them each of them has volunteered volunteered to provide for this nation defense and now they bravely struggle to earn for america for the world and for future generations a just and lasting peace our commitment to them must be equal to their commitment to their country they are truly america finest the war in the gulf is not a war we wanted we worked hard to avoid war for more than 5 months we along with the arab league the european community the united nations tried every diplomatic avenue perez de cuellar presidents gorbachev mitterrand ozal mubarak and bendjedid kings fahd and hassan prime ministers major and andreotti just to name a few all worked for a solution but time and again saddam hussein flatly rejected the path of diplomacy and peace the world well knows how this conflict began and when it began on august 2d when saddam invaded and sacked a small defenseless neighbor and i am certain of how it will end so that peace can prevail we will prevail applause thank you tonight i am pleased to report that we are on course iraq capacity to sustain war is being destroyed our investment our training our planning all are paying off time will not be saddam salvation our purpose in the persian gulf remains constant to drive iraq out of kuwait to restore kuwait legitimate government and to ensure the stability and security of this critical region let me make clear what i mean by the region stability and security we do not seek the destruction of iraq its culture or its people rather we seek an iraq that uses its great resources not to destroy not to serve the ambitions of a tyrant but to build a better life for itself and its neighbors we seek a persian gulf where conflict is no longer the rule where the strong are neither tempted nor able to intimidate the weak most americans know instinctively why we are in the gulf they know we had to stop saddam now not later they know that this brutal dictator will do anything will use any weapon will commit any outrage no matter how many innocents suffer they know we must make sure that control of the world oil resources does not fall into his hands only to finance further aggression they know that we need to build a new enduring peace based not on arms races and confrontation but on shared principles and the rule of law and we all realize that our responsibility to be the catalyst for peace in the region does not end with the successful conclusion of this war democracy brings the undeniable value of thoughtful dissent and we have heard some dissenting voices here at home some a handful reckless most responsible but the fact that all voices have the right to speak out is one of the reasons we have been united in purpose and principle for 200 years our progress in this great struggle is the result of years of vigilance and a steadfast commitment to a strong defense now with remarkable technological advances like the patriot missile we can defend against ballistic missile attacks aimed at innocent civilians looking forward i have directed that the sdi program be refocused on providing protection from limited ballistic missile strikes whatever their source let us pursue an sdi program that can deal with any future threat to the united states to our forces overseas and to our friends and allies the quality of american technology thanks to the american worker has enabled us to successfully deal with difficult military conditions and help minimize precious loss of life we have given our men and women the very best and they deserve it we all have a special place in our hearts for the families of our men and women serving in the gulf they are represented here tonight by norman schwarzkopf we are all very grateful to general schwarzkopf and to all those serving with him and i might also recognize one who came with schwarzkopf alma powell the wife of the distinguished chairman of the joint chiefs and to the families let me say our forces in the gulf will not stay there one day longer than is necessary to complete their mission the courage and success of the raf pilots of the kuwaiti saudi french the canadians the italians the pilots of qatar and bahrain all are proof that for the first time since world war ii the international community is united the leadership of the united nations once only a ideal is now confirming its founders vision i am heartened that we are not being asked to bear alone the financial burdens of this struggle last year our friends and allies provided the bulk of the economic costs of desert shield and now having received commitments of over 40 billion for the first 3 months of 1991 i am confident they will do no less as we move through desert storm but the world has to wonder what the dictator of iraq is thinking if he thinks that by targeting innocent civilians in israel and saudi arabia that he will gain advantage he is dead wrong if he thinks that he will advance his because through tragic and despicable environmental terrorism he is dead wrong and if he thinks that by abusing the coalition prisoners of war he will benefit he is dead wrong we will succeed in the gulf and when we do the world community will have sent an enduring warning to any dictator or despot present or future who contemplates outlaw aggression the world can therefore seize this opportunity to fulfill the promise of a new world order where brutality will go unrewarded and aggression will meet collective resistance yes the united states bears a major share of leadership in this effort among the nations of the world only the united states of america has both the moral standing and the means to back it up we are the only nation on this earth that could assemble the forces of peace this is the burden of leadership and the strength that has made america the beacon of freedom in a searching world this nation has never found glory in war our people have never wanted to abandon the blessings of home and work for distant lands and deadly conflict if we fight in anger it is only because we have to fight at all and all of us yearn for a world where we will never have to fight again each of us will measure within ourselves the value of this great struggle any cost in lives any cost is beyond our power to measure but the cost of closing our eyes to aggression is beyond mankind power to imagine this we do know our because is just our because is moral our because is right let future generations understand the burden and the blessings of freedom let them say we stood where duty required us to stand let them know that together we affirmed america and the world as a community of conscience the winds of change are with us now the forces of freedom are together united we move toward the next century more confident than ever that we have the will at home and abroad to do what must be done the hard work of freedom may god bless the united states of america thank you very very much
president speaker members united states congress come house people speak americans certain stand defining hour halfway around world engaged great struggle skies seas sands know americans part something larger two centuries done hard work freedom tonight lead world facing threat decency humanity stake one small country big idea new world order diverse nations drawn together common achieve universal aspirations mankind peace security freedom rule law world worthy struggle worthy children future community nations resolutely gathered condemn repel lawless aggression saddam hussein unprovoked invasion ruthless systematic rape peaceful neighbor violated everything community nations holds dear world said aggression would stand stand together resisted trap appeasement cynicism isolation gives temptation tyrants world answered saddam invasion 12 united nations resolutions starting demand iraq immediate unconditional withdrawal backed forces 28 countries 6 continents exceptions world stands one end cold war victory humanity year half ago germany said goal europe whole free tonight germany united europe become whole free america leadership instrumental making possible relationship soviet union important us world relationship helped shape historic changes like many nations deeply concerned violence baltics communicated concern soviet leadership principle guided us simple objective help baltic peoples achieve aspirations punish soviet union recent discussions soviet leadership given representations fulfilled would result withdrawal soviet forces reopening dialog republics move away violence watch carefully situation develops maintain contact soviet leadership encourage continued commitment democratization reform possible want continue build lasting basis cooperation peaceful future mankind triumph democratic ideas eastern europe latin america continuing struggle freedom elsewhere around world confirm wisdom nation founders tonight work achieve another victory victory tyranny savage aggression union enter last decade 20th century thankful blessings steadfast purpose aware difficulties responsive duties home around world two centuries america served world inspiring example freedom democracy generations america led struggle preserve extend blessings liberty today rapidly changing world american leadership indispensable americans know leadership brings burdens sacrifices also know hopes humanity turn us americans unique responsibility hard work freedom freedom works conviction courage see persian gulf today simply american character action indomitable spirit contributing victory world peace justice spirit gives us power potential meet toughest challenges home resolute resourceful selflessly confront evil sake good land far away surely make land anyone tells america best days behind looking wrong way tonight come house american people appeal renewal merely call new government initiatives call new initiatives government communities every american prepare next american century america always led example among us set example citizens lead us next american century everyone steps forward today get one addict drugs convince one troubled teenager give life comfort one aids patient help one hungry child within reach promise renewed america find meaning reward serving higher purpose shining purpose illumination thousand points light expressed know irresistible force child hand friend stands stays volunteer generous gesture idea simply right problems us may different key solving remains individual individual steps forward state union union us one sum friendships marriages families communities something give know read find someone got hammer find nail hungry lonely trouble seek someone join community conscience hard work freedom define state union since birth nation people source strength government alone limited potential american people knows limits nation realism idealism americans nation believes future nation shape future begun strengthening power choice individuals families together last 2 years put dollars child care directly hands parents instead bureaucracies unshackled potential americans disabilities applied creativity marketplace service environment clean air made home ownership possible americans strength democracy bureaucracy people communities everything let us unleash potential precious resource citizens citizens must return families communities counties cities states institutions every kind power chart destiny freedom opportunity provided strong economic growth america know tonight regions country people genuine economic distress hear earlier month kathy blackwell massachusetts wrote happen economy slows saying heart aching think know people hurting badly understand unrealistic future reasons optimistic economy first fight inflation second industries make big cuts production big inventories piled third exports running solid strong fact american businesses exporting record rate let us put times perspective together since 1981 created almost 20 million jobs cut inflation half cut interest rates half yes largest peacetime economic expansion history temporarily interrupted economy still twice large closest competitor get recession behind us return growth soon get way new record expansion achieve competitive strength carry us next american century focus efforts today encouraging economic growth investing future giving power opportunity individual must begin control federal spending submitting budget holds growth spending less rate inflation amid sound fury last year budget debate put law new enforceable spending caps future spending debates mean battle ideas bidding war though controversial budget agreement finally put federal government plan cut growth debt nearly 500 billion frees funds saving investment let us budget includes family savings accounts withdrawals ira home buyers increase jobs growth reduced tax capital gains know differences among us laughter impact effects capital gains incentive tonight asking congressional leaders federal reserve cooperate us study led chairman alan greenspan sort technical differences avoid return unproductive partisan bickering efforts bring economic growth future must also matched investments next american century requires plan action exactly sending congress prepared detailed series proposals include budget promotes investment america future children education infrastructure space high technology legislation achieve excellence education building partnership forged 50 governors education summit enabling parents choose children schools helping make america number one math science blueprint new national highway system critical investment transportation infrastructure research development agenda includes record levels federal investment permanent tax credit strengthen private r create jobs comprehensive national energy strategy calls energy conservation efficiency increased development greater use alternative fuels banking reform plan bring america financial system 21st century banks remain safe secure continue make loans factories businesses home buyers know think much pessimism sound banks making sound loans interest rates lower addition proposals must recognize economic strength depends competitive world markets must continue expand american exports successful uruguay round world trade negotiations create real jobs real growth nations know playing field level america workers farmers anyone anytime anywhere mexican free trade agreement enterprise americas initiative help partners strengthen economies move toward free trade zone throughout entire hemisphere budget also includes plan action right home put power opportunity hands individual means new incentives create jobs inner cities encouraging investment enterprise zones also means tenant control ownership public housing freedom power choose privilege wealth birthright every american civil rights also crucial protecting equal opportunity every one us responsibility speak racism bigotry hate continue vigorous enforcement existing statutes press congress strengthen laws employment discrimination without resorting use unfair preferences determined protect another fundamental civil right freedom crime fear stalks cities attorney general soon convene crime summit nation law enforcement officials help us support need tough crime control legislation need fight crime fully implement national strategy combating drug abuse recent data show making progress much remains done rest day dealer forever good health care every american right every american responsibility proposing aggressive program new prevention initiatives infants children adults elderly promote healthier america help keep costs spiraling time give people choice government reviving ideal citizen politician comes stay serve one reasons much support across country term limitations american people increasingly concerned influence politics must look beyond next election next generation time come put national interest special interest totally eliminate political action committees would truly put competition elections power hands individuals power put directly hands individual moved closer people away washington federal government often treats government programs washington washington washington established federal programs seem become immortal time dynamic program life cycle programs increase decrease terminated consolidated turned states budget includes list programs potential turnover totaling 20 billion working congress governors propose select least 15 billion programs turn states single consolidated grant fully funded flexible management states value value turnover approach straightforward allows federal government reduce overhead allows states manage flexibly efficiently moves power decisionmaking closer people reinforces theme administration appreciation encouragement innovative powers states laboratories nation founded leaders understood power belongs hands people planned future must around world americans know times must step forward accept responsibility lead world away dark chaos dictators toward brighter promise better day almost 50 years ago began long struggle aggressive totalitarianism face another defining hour america world one devoted committed hard work freedom every soldier sailor every marine airman coastguardsman every man woman serving persian gulf oh deserve applause fitting tribute see wonderful fitting tribute volunteered volunteered provide nation defense bravely struggle earn america world future generations lasting peace commitment must equal commitment country truly america finest war gulf war wanted worked hard avoid war 5 months along arab league european community united nations tried every diplomatic avenue perez de cuellar presidents gorbachev mitterrand ozal mubarak bendjedid kings fahd hassan prime ministers major andreotti name worked solution time saddam hussein flatly rejected path diplomacy peace world well knows conflict began began august 2d saddam invaded sacked small defenseless neighbor certain end peace prevail prevail applause thank tonight pleased report course iraq capacity sustain war destroyed investment training planning paying time saddam salvation purpose persian gulf remains constant drive iraq kuwait restore kuwait legitimate government ensure stability security critical region let make clear mean region stability security seek destruction iraq culture people rather seek iraq uses great resources destroy serve ambitions tyrant build better life neighbors seek persian gulf conflict longer rule strong neither tempted able intimidate weak americans know instinctively gulf know stop saddam later know brutal dictator anything use weapon commit outrage matter many innocents suffer know must make sure control world oil resources fall hands finance aggression know need build new enduring peace based arms races confrontation shared principles rule law realize responsibility catalyst peace region end successful conclusion war democracy brings undeniable value thoughtful dissent heard dissenting voices home handful reckless responsible fact voices right speak one reasons united purpose principle 200 years progress great struggle result years vigilance steadfast commitment strong defense remarkable technological advances like patriot missile defend ballistic missile attacks aimed innocent civilians looking forward directed sdi program refocused providing protection limited ballistic missile strikes whatever source let us pursue sdi program deal future threat united states forces overseas friends allies quality american technology thanks american worker enabled us successfully deal difficult military conditions help minimize precious loss life given men women best deserve special place hearts families men women serving gulf represented tonight norman schwarzkopf grateful general schwarzkopf serving might also recognize one came schwarzkopf alma powell wife distinguished chairman joint chiefs families let say forces gulf stay one day longer necessary complete mission courage success raf pilots kuwaiti saudi french canadians italians pilots qatar bahrain proof first time since world war ii international community united leadership united nations ideal confirming founders vision heartened asked bear alone financial burdens struggle last year friends allies provided bulk economic costs desert shield received commitments 40 billion first 3 months 1991 confident less move desert storm world wonder dictator iraq thinking thinks targeting innocent civilians israel saudi arabia gain advantage dead wrong thinks advance tragic despicable environmental terrorism dead wrong thinks abusing coalition prisoners war benefit dead wrong succeed gulf world community sent enduring warning dictator despot present future contemplates outlaw aggression world therefore seize opportunity fulfill promise new world order brutality go unrewarded aggression meet collective resistance yes united states bears major share leadership effort among nations world united states america moral standing means back nation earth could assemble forces peace burden leadership strength made america beacon freedom searching world nation never found glory war people never wanted abandon blessings home work distant lands deadly conflict fight anger fight us yearn world never fight us measure within value great struggle cost lives cost beyond power measure cost closing eyes aggression beyond mankind power imagine know moral right let future generations understand burden blessings freedom let say stood duty required us stand let know together affirmed america world community conscience winds change us forces freedom together united move toward next century confident ever home abroad must done hard work freedom may god bless united states america thank much
president speaker member unite state congress come house people speak american certain stand define hour halfway around world engage great struggle sky seas sand know american part something large two century do hard work freedom tonight lead world face threat decency humanity stake one small country big idea new world order diverse nation draw together common achieve universal aspiration mankind peace security freedom rule law world worthy struggle worthy child future community nation resolutely gather condemn repel lawless aggression saddam hussein unprovoked invasion ruthless systematic rape peaceful neighbor violate everything community nation hold dear world say aggression would stand stand together resist trap appeasement cynicism isolation give temptation tyrant world answer saddam invasion 12 united nation resolution start demand iraq immediate unconditional withdrawal back force 28 country 6 continent exception world stand one end cold war victory humanity year half ago germany say goal europe whole free tonight germany unite europe become whole free america leadership instrumental make possible relationship soviet union important u world relationship help shape historic change like many nation deeply concerned violence baltic communicate concern soviet leadership principle guide u simple objective help baltic people achieve aspiration punish soviet union recent discussion soviet leadership give representation fulfil would result withdrawal soviet force reopen dialog republic move away violence watch carefully situation develop maintain contact soviet leadership encourage continue commitment democratization reform possible want continue build lasting basis cooperation peaceful future mankind triumph democratic idea eastern europe latin america continue struggle freedom elsewhere around world confirm wisdom nation founder tonight work achieve another victory victory tyranny savage aggression union enter last decade 20th century thankful blessing steadfast purpose aware difficulty responsive duty home around world two century america serve world inspire example freedom democracy generation america lead struggle preserve extend blessing liberty today rapidly change world american leadership indispensable american know leadership brings burden sacrifice also know hop humanity turn u americans unique responsibility hard work freedom freedom work conviction courage see persian gulf today simply american character action indomitable spirit contribute victory world peace justice spirit give u power potential meet tough challenge home resolute resourceful selflessly confront evil sake good land far away surely make land anyone tell america best day behind look wrong way tonight come house american people appeal renewal merely call new government initiative call new initiative government community every american prepare next american century america always lead example among u set example citizen lead u next american century everyone step forward today get one addict drug convince one troubled teenager give life comfort one aid patient help one hungry child within reach promise renew america find mean reward serve high purpose shin purpose illumination thousand point light express know irresistible force child hand friend stand stay volunteer generous gesture idea simply right problem u may different key solve remains individual individual step forward state union union u one sum friendship marriages family community something give know read find someone get hammer find nail hungry lonely trouble seek someone join community conscience hard work freedom define state union since birth nation people source strength government alone limit potential american people know limit nation realism idealism americans nation believe future nation shape future begin strengthen power choice individual family together last 2 year put dollar child care directly hand parent instead bureaucracy unshackled potential american disability apply creativity marketplace service environment clean air make home ownership possible american strength democracy bureaucracy people community everything let u unleash potential precious resource citizen citizen must return family community county city state institution every kind power chart destiny freedom opportunity provide strong economic growth america know tonight region country people genuine economic distress hear earlier month kathy blackwell massachusetts write happen economy slow say heart ache think know people hurt badly understand unrealistic future reason optimistic economy first fight inflation second industry make big cut production big inventory pile third export run solid strong fact american business export record rate let u put time perspective together since 1981 create almost 20 million job cut inflation half cut interest rate half yes large peacetime economic expansion history temporarily interrupt economy still twice large close competitor get recession behind u return growth soon get way new record expansion achieve competitive strength carry u next american century focus effort today encourage economic growth invest future give power opportunity individual must begin control federal spending submit budget hold growth spending less rate inflation amid sound fury last year budget debate put law new enforceable spending cap future spending debate mean battle idea bid war though controversial budget agreement finally put federal government plan cut growth debt nearly 500 billion free fund save investment let u budget include family saving account withdrawal ira home buyer increase job growth reduce tax capital gain know difference among u laughter impact effect capital gain incentive tonight ask congressional leader federal reserve cooperate u study lead chairman alan greenspan sort technical difference avoid return unproductive partisan bicker effort bring economic growth future must also match investment next american century require plan action exactly send congress prepare detailed series proposal include budget promotes investment america future child education infrastructure space high technology legislation achieve excellence education build partnership forge 50 governor education summit enable parent choose child school help make america number one math science blueprint new national highway system critical investment transportation infrastructure research development agenda include record level federal investment permanent tax credit strengthen private r create job comprehensive national energy strategy call energy conservation efficiency increase development great use alternative fuel bank reform plan bring america financial system 21st century bank remain safe secure continue make loan factory business home buyer know think much pessimism sound bank make sound loan interest rate low addition proposal must recognize economic strength depend competitive world market must continue expand american export successful uruguay round world trade negotiation create real job real growth nation know play field level america worker farmer anyone anytime anywhere mexican free trade agreement enterprise america initiative help partner strengthen economy move toward free trade zone throughout entire hemisphere budget also include plan action right home put power opportunity hand individual mean new incentive create job inner city encourage investment enterprise zone also mean tenant control ownership public housing freedom power choose privilege wealth birthright every american civil right also crucial protect equal opportunity every one u responsibility speak racism bigotry hate continue vigorous enforcement exist statute press congress strengthen law employment discrimination without resort use unfair preference determine protect another fundamental civil right freedom crime fear stalk city attorney general soon convene crime summit nation law enforcement official help u support need tough crime control legislation need fight crime fully implement national strategy combat drug abuse recent data show make progress much remain do rest day dealer forever good health care every american right every american responsibility propose aggressive program new prevention initiatives infant child adult elderly promote healthy america help keep cost spiral time give people choice government revive ideal citizen politician come stay serve one reason much support across country term limitation american people increasingly concerned influence politics must look beyond next election next generation time come put national interest special interest totally eliminate political action committee would truly put competition election power hand individual power put directly hand individual move closer people away washington federal government often treats government program washington washington washington establish federal program seem become immortal time dynamic program life cycle program increase decrease terminate consolidated turned state budget include list program potential turnover total 20 billion work congress governor propose select least 15 billion program turn state single consolidated grant fully fund flexible management state value value turnover approach straightforward allow federal government reduce overhead allows state manage flexibly efficiently move power decisionmaking close people reinforces theme administration appreciation encouragement innovative power state laboratory nation found leader understood power belongs hand people planned future must around world american know time must step forward accept responsibility lead world away dark chaos dictator toward brighter promise well day almost 50 year ago begin long struggle aggressive totalitarianism face another define hour america world one devote committed hard work freedom every soldier sailor every marine airman coastguardsman every man woman serve persian gulf oh deserve applause fit tribute see wonderful fit tribute volunteer volunteered provide nation defense bravely struggle earn america world future generation last peace commitment must equal commitment country truly america fine war gulf war want work hard avoid war 5 month along arab league european community united nation try every diplomatic avenue perez de cuellar president gorbachev mitterrand ozal mubarak bendjedid king fahd hassan prime minister major andreotti name work solution time saddam hussein flatly reject path diplomacy peace world well know conflict begin begin august 2d saddam invade sack small defenseless neighbor certain end peace prevail prevail applause thank tonight pleased report course iraq capacity sustain war destroy investment training plan pay time saddam salvation purpose persian gulf remain constant drive iraq kuwait restore kuwait legitimate government ensure stability security critical region let make clear mean region stability security seek destruction iraq culture people rather seek iraq use great resource destroy serve ambition tyrant build good life neighbor seek persian gulf conflict longer rule strong neither tempt able intimidate weak american know instinctively gulf know stop saddam later know brutal dictator anything use weapon commit outrage matter many innocent suffer know must make sure control world oil resource fall hand finance aggression know need build new endure peace base arm race confrontation share principle rule law realize responsibility catalyst peace region end successful conclusion war democracy bring undeniable value thoughtful dissent heard dissent voice home handful reckless responsible fact voice right speak one reason unite purpose principle 200 year progress great struggle result year vigilance steadfast commitment strong defense remarkable technological advance like patriot missile defend ballistic missile attack aim innocent civilian look forward direct sdi program refocus provide protection limit ballistic missile strike whatever source let u pursue sdi program deal future threat united state force overseas friends ally quality american technology thanks american worker enable u successfully deal difficult military condition help minimize precious loss life give men woman best deserve special place heart family men woman serve gulf represent tonight norman schwarzkopf grateful general schwarzkopf serving might also recognize one come schwarzkopf alma powell wife distinguish chairman joint chief family let say force gulf stay one day long necessary complete mission courage success raf pilot kuwaiti saudi french canadian italian pilot qatar bahrain proof first time since world war ii international community united leadership united nation ideal confirm founder vision hearten ask bear alone financial burden struggle last year friend ally provide bulk economic cost desert shield receive commitment 40 billion first 3 month 1991 confident less move desert storm world wonder dictator iraq think think target innocent civilian israel saudi arabia gain advantage dead wrong think advance tragic despicable environmental terrorism dead wrong think abuse coalition prisoner war benefit dead wrong succeed gulf world community send endure warn dictator despot present future contemplate outlaw aggression world therefore seize opportunity fulfill promise new world order brutality go unrewarded aggression meet collective resistance yes united state bear major share leadership effort among nation world unite state america moral standing mean back nation earth could assemble force peace burden leadership strength make america beacon freedom search world nation never find glory war people never want abandon blessing home work distant land deadly conflict fight anger fight u yearn world never fight u measure within value great struggle cost live cost beyond power measure cost closing eye aggression beyond mankind power imagine know moral right let future generation understand burden blessing freedom let say stood duty require u stand let know together affirm america world community conscience wind change u force freedom together united move toward next century confident ever home abroad must do hard work freedom may god bless united state america thank much