February 3, 2003

In a White House meeting with the 300 mayors attending the 71st Winter Meeting of the Conference of Mayors on January 24, President George W. Bush previewed many of the themes that were contained in the State of the Union Address January 27.

The President told the mayors that new federal resources for homeland security would soon be on the way to America's states and cities.

He also discussed the importance of faith-based initiatives, and need to ensure that faith- based organizations could compete for federal funds. Tied to this discussion was the issue of volunteerism and the USA Freedom Corps.

President Bush also discussed his economic stimulus plan.

Then, a major part of the meeting focused on the possible war with Iraq, with President Bush stating his intention to make a strong case to the American people. The President said that Iraq is not declaring weapons known to exist — in violation of the United Nations resolution, that Saddam Hussein tortures those who oppose him, and that Iraq is a known supporter of international terrorism.

Prior to his participation in the meeting, the mayors were briefed by John Bridgeland, Executive Director of the USA Freedom Corps, H. James "Jim" Towey, Director of the Office of Faith-Based and Community Initiatives, and R. Glenn Hubbard, outgoing Chair of the Council of Economic Advisors.