World Report: February 7, 2003 Vol.8 No.16
- This Issue:
- Table of Contents
- Cover Story
- Cover Story - Spanish Version
- Mini-Lesson
- Comprehension Quiz
- Teacher's Guide and Worksheets
Bush's Speech to the Nation
Once a year, every President since George Washington lays out his plans before Congress. Last week, George W. Bush delivered his second State of the Union message. He presented some familiar ideas mixed with a few big surprises.
The President stuck to his proposal to cut taxes to boost the economy. "This tax relief will help our economy immediately," he said. Republican members of Congress rose to applaud. Democrats stayed seated. Many Bush opponents believe the plan will mainly benefit the richest Americans.
One big surprise was Bush's $1.2 billion investment in a program to develop pollution-free cars that run on hydrogen. Another surprise came when Bush pledged $15 billion to fight the deadly AIDS disease in Africa.
As expected, much of the speech was about the conflict with Iraq. Bush promised to "fight with the full force and might of the United States military" to make sure that Iraq destroys its weapons.
Washington Governor Gary Locke responded to the speech on behalf of the Democratic party. He dis-agreed with Bush on taxes and on using force in Iraq, saying, "We are headed in the wrong direction."
