President George W. Bush gave the annual State of the Union speech last Monday. The U.S. Constitution requires the President to report regularly to Congress on the nation's condition.
It was the seventh, and final, time that the President gave the speech. Bush said that during his years in office, Americans have "faced hard decisions about peace and war, rising competition in the world economy, and the health and welfare of our citizens."
During the 53-minute address, Bush asked Americans concerned about the war in Iraq to have patience. "The mission has been difficult and trying," he said. "But it is in the vital interest of the U.S. that we succeed." He said plans are set for 20,000 U.S. troops to come home from Iraq, but warned against removing forces too quickly.
Bush also acknowledged that the nation's economy is slowing. He asked lawmakers to quickly approve a $146 billion plan that would help people and businesses by cutting taxes.
The President asked Congress to extend the No Child Left Behind Act. The law, which requires annual testing of students, expired in 2007. Bush also proposed a $300 million program that would offer grants to low-income children in struggling schools.