"This year’s theme celebrates the patriotic spirit that unites us as Americans. During this hopeful season we are reminded of the blessings of freedom we enjoy, and we renew our sense of what is important in our lives. Family and friends gather to share old traditions and create new ones. Strangers exchange smiles and tidings of good cheer. Children happily sing along to the songs of the holidays and help bake holiday treats for their loved ones." - President and Mrs. Bush
The United States is committed to the advance of freedom and democracy as the great alternatives to repression and radicalism. The most powerful weapon in the struggle against extremism is the universal appeal of freedom. Freedom is the best way to unleash the creativity and economic potential of a nation, the only ordering of a society that leads to justice, and the only way to achieve and permanently protect human rights.
The peaceful transfer of power from one Presidential Administration to the next is a hallmark of American democracy.
With our Nation at war, our homeland targeted by terrorist adversaries, and our economy facing serious challenges, the
Administration is committed to establishing and executing a transition plan that minimizes disruption, maintains
continuity, and addresses the major changes in government since the 2000 transition, including the Intelligence Reform
and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004, as well as the creation of the Department of Homeland Security, the Director of
National Intelligence, and the Homeland Security Council.
President Bush has outlined decisive government action to preserve and sustain America's financial system and economy. This is a pivotal moment for America's economy. Problems that originated in the credit markets – and first showed up in the area of subprime mortgages – have spread throughout our financial system. As a result, the government is acting now to protect our Nation's economic health from serious risk.
President George W. Bush addresses his remarks on national security, homeland security and the Freedom Agenda Wednesday, Dec. 17, 2008, at the U.S. Army War College in Carlisle, Pa. In his address President Bush said, "As President, I've had no higher responsibility than waging this struggle for the security and liberty of our people." White House photo by Chris Greenberg
President Bush on Wednesday said, "We can be confident because freedom is universal. I strongly believe there's an Almighty, and a gift of that Almighty to every man, woman and child on the face of the Earth is freedom. We can be confident because we're blessed with men and women who willingly put the welfare of their nation before themselves. As long as we have defenders of such character and courage, our nation will always be in good hands and the future will always be bright." En Español In Focus: Freedom Agenda In Focus: Homeland Security In Focus: National Security Fact Sheet: President Bush Has Kept America Safe
President Bush on Tuesday said, "We've had a very good discussion. First I want to thank you for your support of freedom in Iraq. You have been steadfast in recognizing that freedom is the way to help build lasting peace. I appreciate very much the fact that your country is a vibrant democracy. You've been steadfast in your support for ...the right of your people to express themselves in a free society, and I applaud you for that strength." En Español In Focus: Global Diplomacy
On Tuesday, Anita McBride, Assistant to President George W. Bush and Chief of Staff to First Lady Laura Bush, discussed Holidays at the White House. View the transcript.
President Bush on Monday said, "The story of Hanukkah recalls the miraculous victory of a small band of patriots against tyranny, and the oil that burned for eight nights. Through centuries of exile and persecution, Jews have lit the menorah. Each year, they behold its glow with faith in the power of God, and love for His greatest gift -- freedom." En Español In Focus: Holidays at the White House 2008