FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE January 20, 2005

CONTACT: Stacey Farnen Bernards 202-225-1120

Hoyer Statement on Inaugural Address

WASHINGTON, DC - House Democratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement today regarding President Bush's Inaugural Address: "President Bush's Inaugural Address was a reaffirmation of our nation's steadfast commitment to the cause of freedom and democracy. We are a nation born through revolution, and history and our national character command us to aid the march of human liberty and dignity in every corner of the world. "This unequivocal description of our national commitment to freedom and liberty by President Bush was inspiring. However, the hard realities and difficult work that confronts us will not be erased simply by a soaring statement of national purpose. The true test of national leadership begins where rhetoric alone fails to suffice. "At home, President Bush also must demonstrate through action that he is willing to extend the hand of bipartisanship for more than mere tactical advantage. That is a challenge that he failed to meet in his first term, and I am hopeful that he will see the wisdom of embracing it in his second. "Democrats stand ready, as we have over the last four years, to work with President Bush and our Republican colleagues when they offer proposals that would benefit our entire nation. Where they fail or refuse to do so, we will always fight for our principles."

###