State of the Union address: on Homeland Security
George W. Bush:
It’s false hope to think that terror is behind us
Our greatest responsibility is the active defense of the American people. 28 months have passed since Sept. 11, 2001-over 2 years without an attack on American soil-and it is tempting to believe that the danger is behind us. That hope is understandable
and comforting-and false. The killing has continued in Bali, Jakarta, Casablanca, Jerusalem, Istanbul and Baghdad. The terrorists continue to plot against America and the civilized world. And by our will and courage, this danger will be defeated.
Source: 2004 State of the Union address to joint session of Congress
Jan 20, 2004
George W. Bush:
Terrorists declared war on us-terrorism is beyond a crime
Some people question if America is really in a war at all. They view terrorism more as a crime, a problem to be solved mainly with law enforcement and indictments. After the World Trade Center was first attacked in 1993, some of the guilty were indicted
and tried and convicted and sent to prison. But the matter was not settled. After September 11th, it is not enough to serve our enemies with legal papers. The terrorists and their supporters declared war on the US. And war is what they got.
Source: 2004 State of the Union address to joint session of Congress
Jan 20, 2004
Nancy Pelosi:
Unwavering commitment to America’s armed forces
I express the Democrats’ unbending determination to make the world safer for America-for our people, our interest and our ideals. Democrats have an unwavering commitment to ensure that America’s armed forces remain the best-trained, best-led,
best-equipped force for peace the world has ever known. Never before have we been more powerful militarily. But even the most powerful nation in the history of the world must bring other nations to our side to meet common dangers.
Source: Democratic Response to the 2004 State of the Union address
Jan 20, 2004
Nancy Pelosi:
Secure 100% of nuclear material with 100% inspection
We must remain focused on the greatest threat to the security of the US: the clear and present danger of terrorism. We know what we must do to protect America, but this administration is failing to meet the challenge. Democrats have a better way to
ensure our homeland security. - 100% of containers coming into our ports or airports must be inspected. Today, only 3% are inspected.
- 100% of chemical and nuclear plants in the US must have high levels of security. Today, the Bush administration
has tolerated a much lower standard.
- 100% communication in real time is needed for our police officers, firefighters and all of our first responders to prevent or respond to a terrorist attack. Today, the technology is there but the resources are not.
- 100% of the enriched uranium and other material for weapons of mass destruction must be secured. Today, the administration has refused to commit the resources necessary to prevent it from falling into the hands of terrorists.
Source: Democratic Response to the 2004 State of the Union address
Jan 20, 2004
Nancy Pelosi:
No soldier left behind in war-no veteran left behind at home
As a nation, we must do better to keep faith with our armed forces, their families and our veterans. Our men and women in uniform show their valor every day. On the battlefield, our troops pledge to leave no soldier behind. Here at home,
we must leave no veteran behind. We must ensure their health care, their pensions and their survivor benefits. The year ahead offers great opportunity for progress and perhaps new perils still hidden in the shadows of an uncertain world.
But you, the American people, have shown again and again that you are equal to any test. Now your example summons all of us in government, Republicans and Democrats, to a higher standard. This is personal for all of us, in every community
across this land. As a mother of five, and now as a grandmother of five, I came into government to help make the future brighter for all of America’s children. As much as at any time in my memory, the future of our country and our children is at stake.
Source: Democratic Response to the 2004 State of the Union address
Jan 20, 2004
Page last updated: Feb 23, 2019