THE PRESIDENT: Thank you all very much for
coming. As you can see, I'm standing with the
mighty -- and I emphasize
"mighty" -- New York delegation. Right
after the September the 11th tragedy, I made a pledge to Senator
Schumer and Senator Clinton, Governor Pataki, the whole delegation,
that our government would commit at least $20 billion to help rebuild
New York and to take care of the tragedy that befell that magnificent
city.
I want to thank the members who are here who have worked closely
with my administration to achieve the common objective of putting $20
billion of federal money to help the city, surrounding state, the
people. And, as a matter of fact, as of right now, there's
an over $20 billion commitment.
Now, this is the right thing to do. It's the absolute
right position for our government to take. It is essential
that New York City come back and come back strong, for the good of the
entire nation.
I will tell you that I am so proud of the citizens of the city in
that part of our country. They have shown the world how
strong America is in the face of tragedy. They've shown a
character that runs deep in the American psyche, that we will not be
intimidated, that we won't fail. And it's a proud moment for
me to thank the delegation here and to welcome the Governor and the
Mayor and the senators and congresspeople. I look forward to
continuing to work with these officials as the mighty city of New York
recovers.
And so it's now my honor to bring to the podium the Governor of New
York City -- the State of New York, and then the
Mayor and then the senators. First, Governor George
Pataki. (Applause.)