Tuesday, August 7, 2001

First and foremost, my goal for the coming year is to make the National Governors Association the most effective lobbying organization in Washington.

America’s governors represent just as many people, just as many families, just as many workers and entrepreneurs, as Congress does.

The fifty-five men and women who come together to form the NGA must be the unified voice for bold action to return power and authority to the states and local government.

When we speak together, we can set the agenda – in our states and in Washington.

When we speak together, we can make change a priority and make change happen.

When we speak together, we can get the job done and make a difference.

There is no doubt in my mind. Governors are leaders and we are ready to help President Bush and Congress lead America.

I would like to quickly highlight two areas that the NGA will focus on over the next twelve months

First, strengthening the basic building block of civil society – our families.

Next year, Congress must reauthorize the landmark welfare reforms of 1996 and tackle the tough issue of Medicaid reform. Governors must fight for reforms that give states maximum flexibility and the ability to innovate and tailor programs to meet their local needs.

Second, as the Internet, e-commerce and the digital revolution continue to create opportunities, we must develop policies to help our states compete and thrive in the global economy.

Our efforts will focus on nurturing clusters of innovation in our states – regions where industry, higher education and government bring together skilled workers, state-of-the-art infrastructure, venture capital and intellectual capital.

Our goal is to transform ideas into IPOs – new companies and expanding established firms, creating new jobs and new wealth.  Over the coming year, the NGA will sponsor roundtable discussions, Capitol Hill and regional forums, site visits, policy briefs, how-to guides and conferences that will dig deep into these issues.

We’ll let Washington worry about politics. America’s governors will focus on policy and producing results for America’s families.

Thank you.