For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
October 11, 2002

President's Statement on Senate Vote
Statement by the President

With tonight's vote in the United States Senate, America speaks with one voice. The Congress has spoken clearly to the international community and the United Nations Security Council. Saddam Hussein and his outlaw regime pose a grave threat to the region, the world, and the United States. Inaction is not an option, disarmament is a must.

I commend members of the Senate for the strong bipartisan vote authorizing the use of force, if necessary. The Senate, like the House, conducted this important debate and vote in the finest traditions of our democracy.

Our nation seeks a more just and more peaceful world. Our nation seeks a safer and better world. America will never waver in its commitment to these ideals.

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