TAPE_NUMBER: EF00/0278 IN_TIME: 20:02:41 LENGTH: 01:25 SOURCES: POOL RESTRICTIONS: No Access Internet FEED: VARIOUS (THE ABOVE TIME-CODE IS TIME-OF-DAY) SCRIPT: English/Nat U-S President Bill Clinton says his planned visit to Pakistan later this month shouldn't be seen as an endorsement of Pakistan's military dictatorship. The White House announced the trip this week after intense internal debate. Speaking on the south lawn of the White House on Thursday, Clinton told reporters that America's interests would be best served by maintaining contact with the Pakistani government. U-S President Bill Clinton plans to stop in Pakistan after a five-day visit to India later this month. White House officials say the Pakistan visit will be limited to just a few hours, but will include a meeting with army chief General Pervez Musharraf, the nation's military ruler. The Clinton administration debated for weeks as to whether or not the president should go to Pakistan. Finally, Clinton decided that it would be in America's best interests for him to go. SOUNDBITE: (English) "It would be a mistake not to go, but it would be a grave mistake for people to think my going represents some sort of endorsement of the non-democratic process which occurred there. That's not true." SUPER CAPTION: Bill Clinton, US President Clinton said the United States would have greater influence on the future direction of Pakistan, in terms of restoring democracy and avoiding dangerous conflicts in South Asia, by cooperating and keeping channels open. SOUNDBITE: (English) "It is a recognition, in my judgement, that America's interests and values will be advanced if we maintain some contact with, or communications with, the Pakistani government. And I think that our ability to have a positive influence on the future direction of Pakistan, in terms of the restoration of democracy, in terms of the ultimate resolution of issues on the Indian subcontinent and in terms of avoiding further dangerous conflicts, will be greater if we maintain our cooperation. After all, Pakistan was our ally throughout the Cold War. Since I've been president, Pakistan on more than one occasion has helped us to arrest terrorists." SUPER CAPTION: Bill Clinton, US President The White House says Clinton will use his visit to urge a timetable for returning Pakistan to civilian rule. SHOTLIST: Washington DC, USA - 9 March 2000 1. US President Bill Clinton and congressional leaders walking out 2. Cutaway 3. SOUNDBITE: (English) Bill Clinton US President 4. Cutaway 5. SOUNDBITE: (English) Bill Clinton, US President 6. Wide shot of Clinton speaking XFA?

TAPE_NUMBER: EF00/0340 IN_TIME: 13:23:48 - 16:00:44 // 19:07:19 - 19:45:44 LENGTH: 04:18 SOURCES: US POOL RESTRICTIONS: No access Internet FEED: VARIOUS (THE ABOVE TIME-CODE IS TIME-OF-DAY) SCRIPT: English/Nat U-S President, Bill Clinton, arrived at Chaklala Airbase in Pakistan on Saturday for the final leg of his tour of the Indian subcontinent. He met his counterpart, Muhammed Rafiq Tarar, at the Presidential Palace in Islamabad as well as the country's military ruler, General Pervez Musharraf. In an address to the nation later he gave guarded indications that he was not happy with the country's current lack of democratic rule and touched on the issues of nuclear testing and the dispute between India and Pakistan over Kashmir. President Clinton arrived in Pakistan amidst tight security. As an extra security measure Clinton had departed India in an unmarked jet - the small jet with Presidential livery landing shortly ahead of him. Airforce One landed a short while later and the President disembarked to the warm welcome which has characterised his trip to the region. First stop was a meeting with Pakistani President Muhammed Rafiq Tarar, at which Clinton was accompanied by U-S Secretary of State, Madeleine Albright. Then a meeting with General Musharraf, followed by an address to the people on Pakistan Television. SOUNDBITE: (English) "We share your disappointment that previous democratic governments in Pakistan did not do better for their citizens. But one thing is certain, democracy cannot develop if it is constantly uprooted before it has a chance to firmly take hold. Successful democratic government takes time and patience and hard work. The answer to flawed democracy is not to end democracy, but to improve it." SUPERCAPTION: U-S President, Bill Clinton SOUNDBITE: (English) "Of course no-one from the outside can tell Pakistan how it should be governed. That is for you, the people of Pakistan to decide and you should be given the opportunity to do so. I hope and believe you want Pakistan to be a country where the rule of law prevails. A country where officials are accountable. A country where people can express their points of view without fear. A country that wisely forsakes revenge for the wounds of the past and instead pursues reconciliation for the sake of the future." SUPERCAPTION: U-S President, Bill Clinton SOUNDBITE: (English) "Are you really more secure today than you were before you tested nuclear weapons? Will these weapons make war with India less likely or simply more deadly? Will a costly arms race help you to achieve any economic development? Will it bring you any closer to your friends around the world, closer to the partnerships you need to build your dreams?" SUPERCAPTION: U-S President, Bill Clinton SOUNDBITE: (English) "Will endless costly struggles build good schools for your children? Will it make your cities safer? Will it bring clean water and better health care? Will it narrow the gaps between those who have and those who have nothing?" SUPERCAPTION: U-S President, Bill Clinton SOUNDBITE: (English) "We cannot and will not mediate or resolve the dispute in Kashmir. Only you and India can do that, through dialogue. Last year the world watched with hope as the leaders of India and Pakistan met in Lahore on the road to better relations. This is the right road to peace for Pakistan and India and for the resolution of the problems in Kashmir. Therefore I will do all I can to help both sides to restore the promise and the process of Lahore." SUPERCAPTION: U-S President, Bill Clinton SOUNDBITE: (English) "And I pray for our continued friendship. For peace. For Pakistan. Zindabad. (TRANSLATION: "Long Live Pakistan") SUPERCAPTION: U-S President, Bill Clinton SHOTLIST: Islamabad, Pakistan, March 25, 2000 XFA 1. Wide shot press gathered at airport, zoom in to Pakistani and U-S flags on building with security of roof. 2. Closeup security man with weapon. 3. Midshot security and press. 4. Midshot pan to follow Airforce One taxiing on runway. 5. Midshot press. 6. Wideshot Airforce One on tarmac with Presidential motorcade. 6. Midshot Clinton exiting plane and meeting and greeting waiting dignitaries. 7. Wideshot terminal building pan to tracking shot with motorcade. 8. Midshot tracking motorcade arriving at Presidential building. 9. Midshot tracking motorcade driving to entrance of Presidential palace. 10. Closeup soldier's face, pullout to midshot of soldiers with weapons. 11. Midshot security escorting Presidential entourage to palace. 12. Wideshot of Presidential palace. 13. Photo opportunity inside Presidential palace with Clinton, Tarar and military officer. 14. Closeup Pakistani President, Muhammed Rafiq Tarar. 15. Closeup U-S President, Bill Clinton. 16. Cutaway Albright. 17. Closeup U-S President, Bill Clinton. 18. Closeup Pakistani President, Muhammed Rafiq Tarar. 19. Midshot Clinton, Tarar and military officer. 20. SOUNDBITE (English): U-S President, Bill Clinton 21. Cutaway of Clinton 22. SOUNDBITE (English): U-S President, Bill Clinton 23. Cutaway of Clinton 24. SOUNDBITE (English): U-S President, Bill Clinton 25. Cutaway of Clinton 26. SOUNDBITE (English): U-S President, Bill Clinton 27. Cutaway of Clinton 28. SOUNDBITE (English): U-S President, Bill Clinton 29. Cutaway of Clinton 30. SOUNDBITE (English): U-S President, Bill Clinton?

TAPE_NUMBER: EF00/0307 IN_TIME: 04:08:25 - 10:17:50 // 13:30:36 LENGTH: 03:05 SOURCES: APTN RESTRICTIONS: No Access Internet FEED: VARIOUS (THE ABOVE TIME-CODE IS TIME-OF-DAY) SCRIPT: English/Nat XFA Observers and analysts predict that United States President Bill Clinton will have a difficult time persuading either India or Pakistan to cut back on their nuclear weapons programs. President Clinton arrives in India on Sunday for a week-long South Asia trip that will also include a short visit to military-ruled Pakistan. Nuclear testing in 1998 - first by India and then by Pakistan - shook the Indian subcontinent and the world. In a recent report to Congress, the CIA's Director said the two countries only "narrowly averted a full scale war" over the disputed territory of Kashmir last spring. America is treading a diplomatic fine line between the two countries. The latest Indian army casualty in what India says is an ongoing war with Pakistani-backed militants in Indian-administered Kashmir. 26-year-old Captain Omkarnath Rao was shot dead in a gun battle with militants near the line of control with Pakistani-administered Kashmir a few days ago - his body has just been brought back to the Indian capital. President Clinton's visit comes at a time of heightened tensions in South Asia. Last week he called the Kashmir line of control the most dangerous place on earth. During the Kargil conflict last year in which India fought to repel Pakistani-backed fighters who occupied mountain peaks in the Kargil sector of Indian-administered Kashmir - hundreds of Indian soldiers died. Tens of thousands of troops have been deployed in the area since. India says the incursion was planned and carried out by Pakistani regular army soldiers. Pakistan denies this and says the fighters were militants acting alone. The Kargil conflict raised anti-Pakistan public feeling in India to fever pitch. A huge float at the annual army parade was dedicated to the soldiers who lost their lives retaking the mountain peaks. What worries the international community is that rising hostilities may spill over into a catastrophic nuclear conflict. India went public on its nuclear weapons program in May 1998 - conducting a series of underground tests. The government of Atal Bihari Vajpayee said it was strengthening the nation's defences and giving the country new self-confidence. President Clinton had another view. SOUNDBITE: (English) "India's action threatens the stability of Asia, and challenges the firm international consensus to stop all nuclear testing. So again I ask India to halt its nuclear weapons programme and join the 149 other nations that have already signed the comprehensive test ban treaty. And I ask Pakistan to exercise restraint to avoid a perilous nuclear arms race." SUPERCAPTION: Bill Clinton, U-S President But despite America's close relationship with Pakistan during the Cold War, Pakistan's then Prime Minister, Nawaz Sharif, proceeded with retaliatory nuclear tests. Analysts in India say America must now take an active interest in the region. SOUNDBITE: (English) "They realise that despite all their objections about our nuclear and missile weaponisation, it has made a qualitative change in the U-S attitude towards us. Even if they themselves deny it, they take us more seriously now." SUPERCAPTION: J.N. Dixit, Former Indian Foreign Secretary It's the troubled region of Kashmir which causes the biggest problem for the U-S. It has to tread a fine line. India says it's facing a war backed by Pakistan in which militants are killing Indian soldiers in the streets of Indian administered Kashmir. India says it will only sort out the issue with Pakistan, while Pakistan is begging the international community, led by the U-S, to mediate. America has expressed a desire to do so, much like the role it has played in Northern Ireland. SOUNDBITE: (English) "After the end of the Cold War, it's been very clear to the Indian decision-makers that a cooperative positive relationship with the U-S is important. But because of the difference over the nuclear issue, and Kashmir, it's not been possible to build a serious relationship. Now I think, in the last few years, India and the U-S have managed to reduce this salience, or the weight of these two issues in the overall relationship -- and I think now they are beginning to look for a broader engagement." SUPERCAPTION: C. Raja Mohan, Diplomatic Editor, The Hindu Newspaper For India, the hijacking of one of its airliners to Afghanistan as the world celebrated a new millennium represented the worst face of what it called Pakistani terrorism. For Pakistan it was an example of Indian propaganda and hatred -- it denied any involvement. For everyone else - it was a reminder that militant groups have thrived in the region since the war in Afghanistan which began in 1979. India's call to let the militants go in return for the release of the hostages was a source of national shame in India. Many felt publicly humiliated by what they regarded as hijackers organised by Pakistan. SOUNDBITE: (English) "There is no bowing down to terrorism -- now or ever again." SUPERCAPTION: Jaswant Singh, Indian Foreign Minister President Clinton is arriving in South Asia with this incident fresh in the minds of both nations. SHOTLIST: Various India - Recent and File, Various Kashmir - File, Kandahar, Afghanistan - File, Washington DC and Annapolis, Maryland - U-S - File New Delhi, India, - March 13 2000 1. Various of Indian army ceremony -- last post played for soldier killed in Kashmir Kargil sector, Kashmir - June 1999 2. Wide of artillery guns firing, pans left 3. Close up of gunners 4. Wide of mountains occupied by Pakistani-backed forces under shellfire New Delhi, India - January 26 2000 5. Various of Kargil float at India's Republic Day parade New Delhi, India - May 17 1998 6. Wide of journalists watching government video about nuclear tests 7. Close up of screen showing video footage of India's May 11th 98 nuclear tests Pokaran, Rajasthan state, India - May 20 1998 8. Wide of Indian Prime Minister Vajpayee visiting nuclear test site 9. Close up of Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee waving Annapolis, Maryland, United States - May 22 1998 10. SOUNDBITE: (English) President Clinton Washington DC, United States - December 2 1998 11. Clinton and Nawaz Sharif shaking hands at the White House Delhi, India - March 2000 12. SOUNDBITE: (English) J.N. Dixit, Former Indian Foreign Secretary Srinagar, Kashmir - February 2000 13. Mid shot two Indian soldiers lie shot dead in central market 14. Wide of soldiers advancing in market area 15. Wide showing car on fire, audio of gunfire Delhi, India - March 2000 16. SOUNDBITE: (English) C. Raja Mohan, Diplomatic Editor, The Hindu newspaper Kandahar, Afghanistan - December 31 1999 17. Wide of hijacked Indian airliner on tarmac at Kandahar airport 18. Close up windows of plane being opened 19. Hijacker unloads equipment shortly before escaping 20. SOUNDBITE: (English) Jaswant Singh, Indian Foreign Minister 21. Wide of vehicle convoy containing hijackers leaving airport?

TAPE_NUMBER: EF00/0311 IN_TIME: 04:08:58 - 07:24:59 - 10:13:42 LENGTH: 04:23 SOURCES: APTN RESTRICTIONS: All No Access Internet FEED: VARIOUS (THE ABOVE TIME-CODE IS TIME-OF-DAY) SCRIPT: English/Nat XFA The Indian capital, Delhi, is being prepared for the first visit by an American President in 22 years. For the Indian public, there's fascination but also mixed feelings about the role Mr Clinton might play in regional affairs. Delhi is going to be a little greener and cleaner for a week or so. The hotel where President Clinton will be staying is being given a face lift and security is tight. The route to be taken by the presidential convoy to and from meetings in the city is being spruced up for presidential eyes. The forthcoming visit is dominating headlines in India, with articles ranging from speculation about American security gadgets to protect the President, through to reminiscing about previous Presidential visits - President Eisenhower in 1958, President Nixon in 1969 and Jimmy Carter in 1978. For much of the Cold War, Pakistan was clearly the preferred country in Washington, partly because of the close ties India maintained with the Soviet Union. Most people feel it's been too long since an American President came to the world's largest democracy. SOUNDBITE: (English) "It's a great opportunity for India. We should make the most of it. Whether it's business, or defence, or the relations with America, we should look forward to making the best of it." SUPER CAPTION: Sandeep SOUNDBITE: (English) "My feeling is good. After a long time the President of America is coming to visit us. Definitely it's a very good feeling." SUPER CAPTION: Raveni SOUNDBITE: (English) "He should have come much much before but it's never too late." SUPER CAPTION: Rajesh India's national archives of film and photographs have put on an exhibition of U-S-India relations over the years. There's a stunning series of images, showing Presidents and their first ladies doing the kind of things that President Clinton will enjoy, such as elephant rides and visits to the Taj Mahal. Relations have moved on since the Cold War days and America has said it wants this visit to open a new chapter in the relationship between the two countries. SOUNDBITE: (English) "It reminds me so much of the history we don't take time to reflect on. I think it's also a measure of the challenge in terms of the new chapter that we hope to write as we look forward." SUPER CAPTION: Richard Celeste, U.S. Ambassador to India However, in spite of excitement surrounding his visit, some Indians are worried about America's relationship with neighbouring enemy Pakistan. SOUNDBITE: (English) "The visit itself indicates he is still towards Pakistan which is pretty wrong with the stand it's taking on our borders and internal insurgency and things - I feel it is a little wrong." SUPER CAPTION: Jyoti Many people in India still associate Bill Clinton with the Monica Lewinsky affair, although it seems largely forgotten in the United States. It inspired Indian artists, and fascinated the public. SOUNDBITE: "He's quite a nice person and everyone knows about him - he's quite a romantic person." SUPER CAPTION: Rajesh Clinton leaves for South Asia on Saturday, stopping initially in Bangladesh before spending five days in India. He concludes the trip with a brief stop in Pakistan - the first President to visit that country since 1969. SHOTLIST: Delhi, India - March 16/17, 2000 and File March 17 1. Various of man working on Sheraton Hotel sign 2. 'Parking reserved for US delegation' sign 3. Group of men with dogs 4. Close up of guard dog 5. Various unloading turf from lorry 6. Plants ready to be planted 7. Man squatting and planting pansies 8. Various fountain and workmen 9. Man planting plant 10. Woman with hose 11. Wide of government building 12. Workmen painting road 13. Men painting concrete fence pillar 14. SOUNDBITE: (English): Sandeep 15. SOUNDBITE: (English) Raveni 16. SOUNDBITE: (English) Rajesh Delhi - March 16 17. Wide of people looking at photo display 18. Close up of black & white photos 19. Wide of group including US Ambassador 20. Archive footage of US President Eisenhower's address to the Indian Parliament in 1958 21. 'Two great democracies' sign 22. Close up of US Ambassador's wife 23. Wide of group including Richard Celeste and the Indian Foreign Minister Jaswant Singh 24. Photo of Ronald Reagan 25. Photo of Taj Mahal 26. Photo of Jacqueline Kennedy on elephant 27. Photo of Jacqueline Kennedy and Gandhi - pan up 28. SOUNDBITE: (English) Richard Celeste, U.S. Ambassador to India 29. Photo of Hillary Clinton and Indian politician 30. Photo of Bill Clinton and Indian politician 31. Photo of Chelsea and Hillary Clinton at Taj Mahal - pan down to another photo 32. SOUNDBITE: (English) vox pop File - October 27, 1998 33. Wide of exhibition 34. Painting of Bill Clinton and Monica Lewinsky naked with White House in background 35. Wide of exhibition 36. Picture of naked woman sitting in front of Clinton 37. Boy at exhibition 38. Painting of Clinton with naked woman emerging from his head March 17 39. SOUNDBITE: (English) vox pop 40. Wide of arch in Delhi 41. Man up ladder replacing glass in lamp?

NAME: IND BUSH 3 20060228iX TAPE: EF06/0182 IN_TIME: 10:36:31:05 DURATION: 00:04:23:24 SOURCES: VARIOUS DATELINE: Various, 28 Feb 2006/ Recent RESTRICTIONS: see script SHOTLIST AP TELEVISION NEWS Mumbai, India - 28 February 2006 1. Mid shot of crowd with child holding anti-Bush banner (US President George W Bush) 2. Crowd shouting anti-Bush slogans and waving black flags 3. People fixing picture of Bush on dog 4. Protestors burning flags 5. Men hanging Bush effigy 6. Frantic crowd beating effigy 7. Anti-Bush posters being drawn. ++QUALITY AS INCOMING++ DDI Washington, DC, USA - 24 February 2006 8. Set up shot of US President George W Bush 9. Interviewer Amitabha Charkabarti 10. SOUNDBITE: (English) George W Bush, US President: "Well, I tell them it is in the interests of the world that India have a nuclear power industry. On the other hand, it is also very important for India to understand our concerns about making sure that the civilian programme is separate from the military and there is the IAEA safe guards. And again, (SOUNDBITE CONTINUES OVER CUTAWAY TO AMITABHA CHARKABARTI) we are breaking some new ground so I'm not surprised that it is difficult to reach a consensus and we will keep trying and working at it. The key thing is though that the people of India understand that our relationship is a vital relationship and it's vital on a variety of fronts. 11. Wide of Bush talking to Charkabarti AP TELEVISION NEWS New Delhi, India - 27 February 2006 12. Exterior of Maurya Sheraton hotel where Bush and his entourage will stay 13. Police vehicle outside hotel 14. Indian and US flags 15. Soldiers walking in hotel complex 16. Sign reading: "No entry" - pan to soldier at entrance FILE: New Delhi, India - 21 March 2000 17. Former Indian Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee shaking hands with former US President Bill Clinton New Delhi, India - 27 February 2006 18. SOUNDBITE: (English) K Subrahmanyam, Strategic analyst: "Last presidential visit was all about Clinton's very suave and attractive personality. There was not much that was done in terms of tangibles during Clinton's visit. But in this visit, a lot of tangibles are going to be...I mean... achieved." New Delhi, India - 24 February 2006 19. US Under Secretary for Political Affairs Nicholas Burns and Indian Foreign Secretary Shyam Saran shaking hands 20. Cameramen 21. Wide of delegation level talks New Delhi, India - 28 February 2006 22. SOUNDBITE: (English) Shyam Saran, Indian Foreign Secretary: "We need to make sure that there are no ambiguities which may create difficulties for us in the future. So, as I said, we still have some, a short distance to cover. We, if necessary, we will of course continue the negotiations beyond the forthcoming visit." FILE: Washington, DC, USA - 18 July 2005 23. Bush and Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh walking on South Lawn of White House, inspecting troops 24. US and Indian First Ladies 25. Bush and Singh walk past crowd on lawn DOORDARSHAN New Delhi, India - 27 February 2006 26. SOUNDBITE: (English) Manmohan Singh, Indian Prime Minister: "No part of this process would affect or compromise, our strategic progress." AP TELEVISION NEWS FILE: India - Recent 27. Various of shopping mall 28. Various of call centre New Delhi, India - 27 February 2006 29. SOUNDBITE: (English) Montek Singh Ahluwalia, co-chairman of the India-US Economic Dialogue: "Engagement with the US is not a sort of event-driven thing which hinges on any particular day. The fact is that for the last few years, the US and India have been building a much stronger economic engagement than in the past. That is to a large extent a reflection of the changes to economic policy undertaken in India since the 1990s. Under the present administration, there is no doubt that this engagement has intensified." FILE: Tangdhar, Indian-administered Kashmir, near Line of Control - July 2004 30. Mountain 31. Soldiers on patrol 32. Barbed wire fence STORYLINE: US President George W Bush departed on Tuesday for India and Pakistan, a trip designed to cement two crucial US alliances and possibly hammer out a landmark agreement to share civilian nuclear technology with India. Bush kicks off his five-day visit to the region in India, where he will be greeted by business and government officials eager to boost trade and military ties - and by crowds of protesters, thousands of whom demonstrated in Mumbai on Tuesday. The crowd in Mumbai burned US, Danish and Israeli flags and protesters carried placards which read: "Father of terrorism, Bush". India is a nation of more than one (b) billion people and the dominant religion is Hindu, yet it has one of the world's largest Muslim populations. Dozens of protests have been planned by Indian communist politicians and Islamic leaders for Bush's visit this week. Communists and Muslim groups have criticised New Delhi for backing a US move to report long-time ally Iran to the International Atomic Energy Agency over Tehran's nuclear programme. The communists, who are key allies of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's government, have also drawn up protest plans for Thursday at India's Parliament, a few kilometres (miles) from where Bush and Singh will meet in New Delhi. Since Bush took office in 2001, India and the US have made dramatic steps toward forging a strategic partnership after decades of Cold War animosity, a growing closeness that's based as much on trade, as it is on political philosophies. A key step in that direction, many in the business community believe, is a landmark nuclear agreement to provide India with much-needed nuclear fuel and stand as the cornerstone of the emerging alliance between New Delhi and Washington. Talks to finalise the deal have been held up over which of India's nuclear facilities are to be designated as civilian and which are to be considered military. Speaking in a pre-trip interview given to Indian television, Bush has expressed hope that talks on finalising a civilian nuclear agreement with India would move forward during his visit. Bush said it was "very important for India to understand our concerns about making sure that the civilian programme is separate from the military and there is the IAEA safeguards." But there is opposition to the deal from legislators in India and the United States. In New Delhi, opponents claim the United States is attempting to put too many of India's civilian nuclear facilities under IAEA safeguards - a move they suspect is America's way of trying to weaken India's nuclear weapons programme. Critics of the deal on Capitol Hill say it undermines the Nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty, which India has not signed. India argues that since it began its nuclear energy programme in the 1950s, and it poses no danger. Indian foreign secretary Shyam Saran told reporters Tuesday that if the agreement was not finalised during Bush's visit, talks would continue after the visit. India's Prime Minister Manmohan Singh had told legislators on Monday that his government would not compromise the country's national security to seal a nuclear deal with the United States. Analysts say while Bush's visit to India will be judged by whether he seals the nuclear deal with New Delhi, its success also depends on whether he finds a new footing with the burgeoning economic power. Bush is targeting the estimated 300 (m) million middle-class Indians who he hopes US companies can export goods and services to. India's economy is growing fast and, last year, US exports to India grew by more than 30 percent. Some regional observers point out that this emphasis on trade and consumerism is at odds with the vast impoverishment that many millions of other Indians live with day to day. Security is tight in the Indian capital ahead of Bush's arrival on Wednesday. More than 5,000 snipers, commandos and US marines will guard the US president during his three-day visit. Only four other US presidents have visited India and Pakistan, and Bush's trip, following President Bill Clinton's visit in 2000, is further indication that India holds intense interest for America. The United States is urging Pakistan and India to build on ties forged after a devastating October earthquake to create a lasting peace in the troubled Kashmir region, which both countries claim. Bush says he plans to use his trip to encourage both countries' leaders to continue peace talks.

WHITE HOUSE: PRESIDENT BILL CLINTON NEW DELHI, INDIA PARLIAMENT SPEECH 11:53:18 COURTYARD WALK HEAD ON 13:08:14 WALK IN 13:20:05 CLINTON TO PODIUM - ZOOM IN 13:56:32 PODIUM HANDSHAKES 13:56:58 CLINTON WAVES, SITS 13:57:38 PRIME MINISTER SPEAKS 14:14:21 CLINTON UP AISLE 14:14:52 SCARF 14:19:59 OTS CLINTON HANDS TOWARDS DOOR THE WHITE HOUSE OFFICE OF THE PRESS SECRETARY (Now Delhi, India) March 22, 2000 For Immediate Release REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT TO THE INDIAN JOINT SESSION OF PARLIAMENT Parliament New Delhi, India 11:10 A.M. (L) 13:18:24 THE PRESIDENT; Mr, vice President, Mr. Prime Minister, Mr. Speaker; members of the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, I am privileged to speak to you And, through you, to the people of India. I am honored to be joined today by members of my Cabinet and staff at the White House, and a very large representation of members of our United States Congress from both political parties 13:18:58 We're all honored to be here and we thank you for your warm welcome (Applause) 13:19:09 I would also like to thank the people of India for their kindness to my daughter and my mother-in-law and, on their previous trip to my wife and my daughter (Applause) 13:19:26 I have looked forward to this day with great anticipation. This whole trip has meant a great deal to me, especially to this point, the opportunity I had to visit the Gandhi memorial, to express on behalf of all the people of the United States our gratitude for the life, the work, the thought of Gandhi, without which the great civil rights revolution in the United States would never had succeeded on a peaceful plane (Applause) 13:20:26 As Prime Minister Vajpayee has said, India and America are natural allies, two nations conceived in liberty, each finding strength in its diversity, each seeing in the other a reflection of its own aspiration for a more humane and just world. 13:20:31 A poet once said the world's inhabitants can be divided into " those that have seen the Taj Mahal and those that have not." (Laughter) Well, in a few hours I will have a chance to cross over to the happier side of that divide. But I hope, in a larger sense, that my visit will help the American people to see the new India and to understand you better. And I hope that the visit will help India to understand America better 13:21:09 And that by listening to each other we can build a true partnership of mutual respect and common endeavor 13:21:18 From a distance, India often appears as a kaleidoscope of competing, perhaps superficial, image is it atomic weapons, or ahimsa? A land struggling against poverty and inequality, or the world's largest middle-class society? 13:21:29 Is it still simmering with communal tensions, or history's most successful melting pot? Is it Bollywood or Satyajit Ray? Swetta Chetty or Alla Rakha? Is it the handloom or the hyperlink? 13:22:00 The truth is, no single image can possibly do justice to your great nation. But beyond the complexities and the apparent contradictions, I believe India teaches us some very basic lessons 13:22:17 The first is about democracy. There are still those who deny democracy is a universal aspiration who say it works only for people of a certain culture, or a certain degree of economic development. India has been proving them wrong for 52 years now. 13:32:40 Here is a country where more than 2 million people hold elected office in local government a country that shows at every election that those who possess the least cherish their vote the most 13:22:56 Far from washing away the uniqueness of your culture, your democracy has brought out the richness of its tapestry, and given you the knot that holds it together. 13:23:10 A second lesson India teaches is about diversity. You have already heard remarks about that this morning. But around the world there is a chorus of voices who say ethnic and religious diversity is a threat; who argue that the only way to keep different people from killing one another is to keep them as far, apart as possible, But India has shown us a better way 13:23:40 For a the troubles you have seen, surely the subcontinent has seen more innocence hurt in the efforts to divide people by ethnicity and faith than by the e-efforts to bring them together in peace and harmony 13:23:58 Under trying circumstances, you have shown the world how to live with difference, You have shown that tolerance and mutual respect are in many ways the keys to our common survival. That is something the whole world needs to learn 13:24:18 A third lesson India teaches is about globalization and what may be the central debate of our time. Many people believe the forces of globalization are inherently divisive; that they can only widen the gap between rich and poor. That is a valid fear, but I believe wrong 13:24:46 As the distance between producers large and small, and customers near and far become less relevant, developing countries will have opportunities not only to succeed, but to lead in lifting more people out of poverty more quickly than at any time in human history 13:25:09 In the old economy, location was everything. In the new economy, information, education and motivation are everything -- and India is proving it 13:25:26 You liberated your markets and now you have one of the 10 fastest growing economies in the world. At the rate of growth within your grasp, India's standard of living could rise by 500 percent in just 20 years 13:25:41 You embraced information technology and now, when Americans and other big software companies call for consumer and customer support, they're lust as likely to find themselves talking to an expert in Bangalore as one in Seattle (Applause) 13:26:04 You decentralized authority, giving more individuals and Communities the freedom to succeed. In that way, you affirmed what every successful country is finding in its own way: globalization does not favor nations with a licensing raj, it does favor nations with a panchayat raj. And the world has been beating a path to your door. 13:26:29 In the new millennium, every great country must answer one overarching question, how shall we define our greatness? Every country -- America included -- is tempted to cling to yesterday's definition of economic and military might. 13:26:59 But true leadership for the United States and India derives more from the power of our example and the potential of our people. 13:27:09 I believe that the greatest of India's many gifts to the world is the example its people have set "from Midnight to Millennium." Think of it: virtually every challenge humanity knows can be found here in India. And every solution to every challenge can be found here as well: confidence in democracy; tolerance for diversity; a willingness to embrace social change. 13:27:37 That is why Americans admire India; why we welcome India's Leadership in the region and the world; and Why we want to take our partnership to a new level, to advance our common values and interests, and to resolve the differences that still remain. 13:27:56 There were long periods when that would not have been possible. Though our democratic ideals gave us a starting point in common, and our dreams of peace and prosperity gave us a common destination, there was for too long too little common ground between East and West, North and South. 13:28:22 Now, thankfully, the old barriers between nations and people, economies and cultures, are being replaced by vast networks of cooperation and commerce. With our open, entrepreneurial societies, India and America are at the center of those networks. We must expand them, and defeat the forces that threaten them. 13:28:49 To succeed, I believe there are four large challenges India and the United States must meet together -- challenges that should define our partnership in the years ahead. 13:29:04 The first of these challenges is to get our, own economic relationship right. Americans have applauded your efforts to open your economy, your commitment to a new wave of economic reform, your determination to bring the fruits of growth to all your people. 13:29:23 We are proud to support India's growth as your largest partner in trade and investment. And we want to see more Indian and more Americans benefit from our economic ties, especially in the cutting edge fields of information technology, biotechnology and clean energy. 13:29:41 The private sector will drive this progress, but our job as governments is to create the conditions that will allow them to succeed in doing so, and to reduce the remaining impediments to trade and investment between us. 13:29:57 Our second challenge is to sustain global economic growth in a way that lifts the lives of rich and poor alike, both across and within national borders. Part of the world today lives at the cutting edge of change, while a big part still exists at the bare ,edge of survival, Part of the world lives in the information age. 13:30:29 Part of the world does riot even reach the clean water age. And often the two live side by side. It is unacceptable, it is intolerable; thankfully, it is unnecessary and it is far more than a regional crisis. whether around the corner or around the world, abject poverty in this new economy is an Affront to our common humanity and a threat to our common prosperity. 13:31:00 The problem is truly immense, as you know far better than I. But perhaps for the first time in all history, few would dispute that we know the solutions. We know we need to invest in education and literacy, children can have soaring dreams and the tools to realize We know we need to make a special commitment in developing nations to the education of young girls, as well as young boys. Everything we have learned about development tells us that when women have access to knowledge, to health, to economic opportunity and to civil rights, children thrive, families succeed and countries prosper. 13:31:42 Here again, we see how a problem and its answers can be found side by side in India, For every economist who - preaches the virtues of women's empowerment points at first to the achievements of India's state of Kerala -- I knew there would be somebody here from Kerala (laughter and applause.) Thank you. 13:32:12 To promote development, we know we must conquer the diseases that kill people and progress. Last December, India immunized 140 million children against polio, the biggest public health effort in human history. I congratulate you on that. (Applause.) 13:32:41 I have launched an initiative in the United States to speed the development of vaccines for malaria, tuberculosis and AIDS -- the biggest infectious killers of our time. This July, when our partners in the G-9 meet in Japan, I will urge them to join us. 13:33:04 But that is not enough, for at best, effective vaccines are years away. Especially for AIDS, we need a commitment today to prevention, and that means straight talk and an and to stigmatizing. 13:33:20 As Prime Minister Vajpayee said, no one should ever speak of AIDS as someone else's problem. This has long been a big problem for the United States, it is now a big problem for you. I promise you America's partnership in the continued struggle. (Applause.) 13:33:45 To promote development, we know we must also stand with those struggling for human rights and freedom around the world and in the region. For as the economist Amartya Sen has said, no system of government has done a better job in easing human want, in averting human catastrophes, than democracy. 13:34:07 I am proud America and India will stand together on the right side of history when we launch the Community of Democracies in Warsaw this summer. 13:34:17 All of these steps are essential to lifting people's lives. But there is yet another. With greater trade and the growth it brings, we can multiply the gains of education, better health and democratic empowerment. That is why i hope we will work together to launch a new global trade round that will promote economic development for all. NOT ON TAPE One of the benefits of the World Trade Organization is that it has given developing countries a bigger voice in global trade policy. 13:35:20 Developing countries have used that voice to urge richer nations to open their markets further so that all can have a chance to grow. That is something the opponents of the WTO don't fully appreciate yet. 13:35:34 We need to remind them that when Indians and Brazilians and Indonesians speak up for open trade, they are not speaking for some narrow corporate interest, but for a huge part of humanity that has no interest in being saved from development. Of course, trade should not be a race to the bottom in environmental and labor standards, but neither should fears about trade keep part of our global community forever at the bottom. 13:36:05 Yet we must also remember that those who are concerned about the impact of globalization in terms of inequality, in environmental degradation do speak for a large part of humanity. 13:36:16 Those who believe that trade should contribute not just to the wealth, but also to the fairness of societies; those who share Nehru's dream of a structure for living that fulfills our material needs, and at the same time sustains our mind and spirit. 13:36:35 We can advance these values without engaging in rich-country protectionism. Indeed, to sustain a consensus for open trade, we must find a way to advance these values as well . That is my motivation, and my only motivation, in seeking a dialogue about the connections between labor, the environment, and trade and development. 13:37:01 I would remind you -- and I want to emphasize this -- the United States has the most open markets of any wealthy country in the world, we have the largest trade deficit. We also have had a strong economy, because we have welcomed the -products and the services from the labor of people throughout the world. I am for an open global trading system. But we must do it in a way that advances the cause of social justice around the world. (Applause.) 13:37:39 The third challenge we face is to see that the prosperity and growth of the information age require us to abandon some of the outdated truths of the Industrial Age. As the economy grows faster today, for example, when children are kept in school, not put to work. Think about the industries that are driving our growth today in India and in America. Just as oil enriched the nations who had it in the 20th century, clearly knowledge is doing the same for the nations who have it in the 21st century. The difference is, knowledge can be tapped by all people everywhere, and it will never run out. 13:38:26 We must also find ways to achieve robust growth while protecting the environment and reversing climate change. I'm convinced we can do that as well. 13:38:38 We will see in the next few years, for example, automobiles that are three, four, perhaps five times as efficient as those being driven today. Soon scientists will make alternative sources of energy more widely available and more fordable. Trust for example, before long chemists almost certainly will unlock the block that will allow us to produce eight or nine gallons of fuel from bio-fuels, farm fuels, using only one gallon of gasoline. 13:39:11 Indian scientists are at the forefront of this kind of research -- pioneering the use of solar energy to power rural communities developing electric cars for use in crowded cities; converting agricultural waste Into electricity. 13:39:29 If we can deepen our cooperation for clean energy, we will, strengthen our economies, improve our people's health and fight global warming. This should be a vital element of our new partnership. 13:39:44 A fourth challenge we face is to protect the gains of and development from the forces which threaten to undermine them. There is the danger of organized crime and drugs. There is the evil of trafficking in human beings, a modern form of slavery. And of course, there is the threat of terrorism. Both our nations know it all too well. 13:40:12 Americans understood the pain and agony you went through during the Indian Airlines hijacking. And I saw that pain firsthand when :[ met with the parents and the widow of the young man who was killed on that airplane. (Applause.) We grieve with you for the Sikhs who were killed in Kashmir -- (applause) -- and our heart goes out to their families. We will work with you to build a system of justice, to strengthen our cooperation against terror. (Applause.) 13:40:59 We must never relax our vigilance or allow the perpetrators to intimidate us into retreating from our democratic ideals. 13:41:09 Another danger we face is the spread of' weapons of mass destruction to those who might have no reservations about using them. I still believe this is the greatest potential threat to the security we all face in the 21st century. It is why we must be vigilant in fighting the spread of chemical and biological weapons. 13:41:34 And it is why we must both keep working closely to resolve our remaining differences on nuclear proliferation. 13:41:43 I am aware that I speak to you on behalf of a nation that has possessed nuclear weapons for 55 years and more. But since 1988, the United States has dismantled more than 13,000,nuclear weapons. 13:42:00 We have helped Russia to dismantle their nuclear weapons and to safeguard the material that remains. We have agreed to an outline of a treaty with Russia that will reduce our remaining nuclear arsenal by more than half. 13:42:20 We are producing, no more fissile material, developing no new land-, or submarine-based missiles, engaging in no new nuclear testing. 13:42:30 From South America to South Africa, nations are forswearing these weapons, realizing that a nuclear future is not a more secure future., Most of the world is moving toward the elimination of nuclear weapons. That goal is not advanced if an country, in any region, it moves in the other direction. 13:42:30 I say this with great respect. 13:42:57 Only India can determine its own interests. Only India -- (applause) -- only India can know if it truly is safer today than before the tests. Only India can determine if it will benefit from expanding its nuclear and missile capabilities, if its neighbors respond by doing the same thing. Only India knows if it can afford a sustained investment in both conventional and nuclear forces while meeting its goals for human development. These are questions others may ask, but only you can answer. 13:43:41 I can only speak to you as a friend about America's own experience during the Cold War. We were geographically distant from the Soviet Union. We were not engaged in direct armed combat. Through years of direct dialogue with our adversary, we each had a very good idea of the other's capabilities, doctrines, and intentions. We each spent billions of dollars on elaborate command and control systems, for nuclear weapons are not cheap. 13:44:16 And yet, in spite of all of this -- and as I sometimes say jokingly, in spite of the fact that both sides had very good spies, and that was a good thing -- (laughter) -- in spite of all of this, we came far too close to nuclear war. We learned that deterrence alone cannot be relied on to prevent accident or miscalculation. And in a nuclear standoff, there,is nothing more dangerous than believing there is no danger. 13:44:51 I can also repeat what I said at the outset. India is a leader, a great nation, which by virtue of its size, its achievements, and, its example, has the ability to shape the character of our time. For any of us, to claim that mantle and assert that status is to accept first and foremost, that our actions have consequences for others beyond our borders. Great nations with broad horizons must consider whether actions advance or hinder what Nehru called the larger cause of humanity. 13:45:31 So India's nuclear policies, inevitably, have consequences beyond your borders: eroding the barriers against the spread of nuclear weapons, discouraging nations that have chosen to foreswear these weapons, encouraging others to keep their options open. 13:45:49 But if India's nuclear test shook the world, India's leadership for nonproliferation can certainly move the world. 13:46:00 India and the United States have reaffirmed our commitment to forego nuclear testing. And for that I thank the Prime minister, the government and the people of India. But in our own self interest -- and I say this again -- in our own self-interest we can do more. 13:46:19 I believe both nations should join the Comprehensive an Treaty; work to launch negotiations on a treaty production of fissile materials for nuclear weapons; strengthen export controls. 13:46:33 And India can pursue defense policies in keeping with its commitment not to seek a nuclear or missile arms race, which the Prime Minister has forcefully reaffirmed just in these last couple of days. 13:46:49 Again, I do not presume to speak for you or to tell you what to decide. It is not my place. You are a great nation and you must decide. But I ask you to continue our dislodge on these issues. And let, us turn our dialogue into a genuine partnership against proliferation. If we make progress in narrowing our differences, we will be both more secure, and our relationship can reach its full potential. 13:47:21 I hope progress can also be made in overcoming a source of tension in this region, including the tensions between India and Pakistan. I share many of your government's concerns about the course Pakistan is taking; your disappointment that past overtures have not always, met with success; your outrage over recent violence. 13:47:44 I know it is difficult to be a democracy bordered by nations whose governments reject democracy. 13:47:52 But I also believe 13:47:55 I also believe India has a special opportunity, as a democracy, to show its neighbors that democracy is about dialogue, it does not have to be about friendship, but it is about building working relationships among people who differ. 13:48:16 One of the wisest things anyone ever said to me is that you don't make peace with your friends. That is what the late Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin, told me before he signed the Oslo Accords with the Palestinians, with whom he had been fighting for decades. 13:48:41 It is well to remember -- I remind myself of it all the even when I have arguments with members of the other party in my Congress -- (laughter) -- you don't make peace with your friends. 13:48:56 Engagement with adversaries is not the same thing as endorsement. It does not require setting, aside legitimate grievances. Indeed, I strongly believe that what has happened since your Prime Minister made his courageous journey to Lahore only reinforces the need for dialogue. (applause) 13:49:24 I can think of no enduring solution to this problem that can be achieved in any other way. In the end, for the sake of the innocents who always suffer the most, someone must and the contest of inflicting and absorbing pain. NOT ON TAPE Let me also make clear, as I have repeatedly, I have certainly not come to South Asia to mediate the dispute over Kashmir. Only India and Pakistan can work out the problems between them. 13:49:50 And I will say the same thing to General Musharraf in Islambad. 13:49:55 But if outsiders cannot resolve this problem, I hope you will create the opportunity to do it yourselves, calling in the Support of others who can help where possible, as American diplomacy did in urging the Pakistanis to go back behind the line of control in the Kargil crisis. (Applause.) 13:50:23 In the meantime, I will continue to stress that this should be a time for restraint, for respect for the-line of control, for renewed lines of communication. 13:50:35 Addressing this challenge and all the others I mentioned will require us to be closer partners and better friends, and to remember that good friends, out of respect, are honest with one another. And even when they do not agree, they always try to find common ground. 13:50:57 I have read that one of the unique qualities of Indian classical music is its elasticity. the composer lays down a foundation, a structure of melodic and rhythmic arrangements, but the player has to improvise within that structure to bring the raga* to life. 13:51:17 Our relationship is like that. The composers of our past have given us a foundation of shared democratic ideals. It is up to us to give life to those ideals In this time. The not have to be the same to be beautiful to both of us. 13:51:41 But if we listen to each other, and we strive to realize our vision together, we will write a symphony far greater than the sum of our individual notes. 13:51:52 The key is to genuinely and respectfully listen to each other. If we do, Americans will better understand the scope of India's achievements, and the dangers India still faces in this troubled part of the world. 13:52:09 We will understand that India will not choose a particular course simply because others wish it to do so. It will choose only what it believes its interests clearly demand and what its people democratically embrace. 13:52:24 If we listen to each other, I also believe Indians will understand better that America very. much wants you to succeed. Time and again -- (applause) -- time and again in my time as President, America has found that it is the weakness of great nations, not their strength, that threatens our vision for tomorrow. 13:52:51 So we want India to be strong; to be secure; to be united; to be a force for a safer, more prosperous, more democratic world. Whatever we ask of you, we ask in that spirit alone - After too long a period of estrangement, India, and the United States have learned chat being natural allies is a wonderful thing, but it is not enough. 13:53:23 Our task is to turn a common vision into common achievements so that partners in spirit can be partners in fact. We have already come a long way to this day of now beginnings, but we still have promises to keep, challenges to meet and hopes to redeem. 13:53:51 So let us seize this moment with humility in the fragile and fleeting nature of this life, but,absolute confidence 4n the power of the human spirit. Let us seize it for India, for America, for all those with whom we share this small planet, and for all the children that together we can give such bright tomorrows. Thank you very much. (Applause.) END 11:45 A.M. (L)

WHITE HOUSE: PRESIDENT BILL CLINTON NEW DELHI, INDIA PARLIAMENT SPEECH 11:53:18 COURTYARD WALK HEAD ON 13:08:14 WALK IN 13:20:05 CLINTON TO PODIUM - ZOOM IN 13:56:32 PODIUM HANDSHAKES 13:56:58 CLINTON WAVES, SITS 13:57:38 PRIME MINISTER SPEAKS 14:14:21 CLINTON UP AISLE 14:14:52 SCARF 14:19:59 OTS CLINTON HANDS TOWARDS DOOR THE WHITE HOUSE OFFICE OF THE PRESS SECRETARY (Now Delhi, India) March 22, 2000 For Immediate Release REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT TO THE INDIAN JOINT SESSION OF PARLIAMENT Parliament New Delhi, India 11:10 A.M. (L) 13:18:24 THE PRESIDENT; Mr, vice President, Mr. Prime Minister, Mr. Speaker; members of the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, I am privileged to speak to you And, through you, to the people of India. I am honored to be joined today by members of my Cabinet and staff at the White House, and a very large representation of members of our United States Congress from both political parties 13:18:58 We're all honored to be here and we thank you for your warm welcome (Applause) 13:19:09 I would also like to thank the people of India for their kindness to my daughter and my mother-in-law and, on their previous trip to my wife and my daughter (Applause) 13:19:26 I have looked forward to this day with great anticipation. This whole trip has meant a great deal to me, especially to this point, the opportunity I had to visit the Gandhi memorial, to express on behalf of all the people of the United States our gratitude for the life, the work, the thought of Gandhi, without which the great civil rights revolution in the United States would never had succeeded on a peaceful plane (Applause) 13:20:26 As Prime Minister Vajpayee has said, India and America are natural allies, two nations conceived in liberty, each finding strength in its diversity, each seeing in the other a reflection of its own aspiration for a more humane and just world. 13:20:31 A poet once said the world's inhabitants can be divided into " those that have seen the Taj Mahal and those that have not." (Laughter) Well, in a few hours I will have a chance to cross over to the happier side of that divide. But I hope, in a larger sense, that my visit will help the American people to see the new India and to understand you better. And I hope that the visit will help India to understand America better 13:21:09 And that by listening to each other we can build a true partnership of mutual respect and common endeavor 13:21:18 From a distance, India often appears as a kaleidoscope of competing, perhaps superficial, image is it atomic weapons, or ahimsa? A land struggling against poverty and inequality, or the world's largest middle-class society? 13:21:29 Is it still simmering with communal tensions, or history's most successful melting pot? Is it Bollywood or Satyajit Ray? Swetta Chetty or Alla Rakha? Is it the handloom or the hyperlink? 13:22:00 The truth is, no single image can possibly do justice to your great nation. But beyond the complexities and the apparent contradictions, I believe India teaches us some very basic lessons 13:22:17 The first is about democracy. There are still those who deny democracy is a universal aspiration who say it works only for people of a certain culture, or a certain degree of economic development. India has been proving them wrong for 52 years now. 13:32:40 Here is a country where more than 2 million people hold elected office in local government a country that shows at every election that those who possess the least cherish their vote the most 13:22:56 Far from washing away the uniqueness of your culture, your democracy has brought out the richness of its tapestry, and given you the knot that holds it together. 13:23:10 A second lesson India teaches is about diversity. You have already heard remarks about that this morning. But around the world there is a chorus of voices who say ethnic and religious diversity is a threat; who argue that the only way to keep different people from killing one another is to keep them as far, apart as possible, But India has shown us a better way 13:23:40 For a the troubles you have seen, surely the subcontinent has seen more innocence hurt in the efforts to divide people by ethnicity and faith than by the e-efforts to bring them together in peace and harmony 13:23:58 Under trying circumstances, you have shown the world how to live with difference, You have shown that tolerance and mutual respect are in many ways the keys to our common survival. That is something the whole world needs to learn 13:24:18 A third lesson India teaches is about globalization and what may be the central debate of our time. Many people believe the forces of globalization are inherently divisive; that they can only widen the gap between rich and poor. That is a valid fear, but I believe wrong 13:24:46 As the distance between producers large and small, and customers near and far become less relevant, developing countries will have opportunities not only to succeed, but to lead in lifting more people out of poverty more quickly than at any time in human history 13:25:09 In the old economy, location was everything. In the new economy, information, education and motivation are everything -- and India is proving it 13:25:26 You liberated your markets and now you have one of the 10 fastest growing economies in the world. At the rate of growth within your grasp, India's standard of living could rise by 500 percent in just 20 years 13:25:41 You embraced information technology and now, when Americans and other big software companies call for consumer and customer support, they're lust as likely to find themselves talking to an expert in Bangalore as one in Seattle (Applause) 13:26:04 You decentralized authority, giving more individuals and Communities the freedom to succeed. In that way, you affirmed what every successful country is finding in its own way: globalization does not favor nations with a licensing raj, it does favor nations with a panchayat raj. And the world has been beating a path to your door. 13:26:29 In the new millennium, every great country must answer one overarching question, how shall we define our greatness? Every country -- America included -- is tempted to cling to yesterday's definition of economic and military might. 13:26:59 But true leadership for the United States and India derives more from the power of our example and the potential of our people. 13:27:09 I believe that the greatest of India's many gifts to the world is the example its people have set "from Midnight to Millennium." Think of it: virtually every challenge humanity knows can be found here in India. And every solution to every challenge can be found here as well: confidence in democracy; tolerance for diversity; a willingness to embrace social change. 13:27:37 That is why Americans admire India; why we welcome India's Leadership in the region and the world; and Why we want to take our partnership to a new level, to advance our common values and interests, and to resolve the differences that still remain. 13:27:56 There were long periods when that would not have been possible. Though our democratic ideals gave us a starting point in common, and our dreams of peace and prosperity gave us a common destination, there was for too long too little common ground between East and West, North and South. 13:28:22 Now, thankfully, the old barriers between nations and people, economies and cultures, are being replaced by vast networks of cooperation and commerce. With our open, entrepreneurial societies, India and America are at the center of those networks. We must expand them, and defeat the forces that threaten them. 13:28:49 To succeed, I believe there are four large challenges India and the United States must meet together -- challenges that should define our partnership in the years ahead. 13:29:04 The first of these challenges is to get our, own economic relationship right. Americans have applauded your efforts to open your economy, your commitment to a new wave of economic reform, your determination to bring the fruits of growth to all your people. 13:29:23 We are proud to support India's growth as your largest partner in trade and investment. And we want to see more Indian and more Americans benefit from our economic ties, especially in the cutting edge fields of information technology, biotechnology and clean energy. 13:29:41 The private sector will drive this progress, but our job as governments is to create the conditions that will allow them to succeed in doing so, and to reduce the remaining impediments to trade and investment between us. 13:29:57 Our second challenge is to sustain global economic growth in a way that lifts the lives of rich and poor alike, both across and within national borders. Part of the world today lives at the cutting edge of change, while a big part still exists at the bare ,edge of survival, Part of the world lives in the information age. 13:30:29 Part of the world does riot even reach the clean water age. And often the two live side by side. It is unacceptable, it is intolerable; thankfully, it is unnecessary and it is far more than a regional crisis. whether around the corner or around the world, abject poverty in this new economy is an Affront to our common humanity and a threat to our common prosperity. 13:31:00 The problem is truly immense, as you know far better than I. But perhaps for the first time in all history, few would dispute that we know the solutions. We know we need to invest in education and literacy, children can have soaring dreams and the tools to realize We know we need to make a special commitment in developing nations to the education of young girls, as well as young boys. Everything we have learned about development tells us that when women have access to knowledge, to health, to economic opportunity and to civil rights, children thrive, families succeed and countries prosper. 13:31:42 Here again, we see how a problem and its answers can be found side by side in India, For every economist who - preaches the virtues of women's empowerment points at first to the achievements of India's state of Kerala -- I knew there would be somebody here from Kerala (laughter and applause.) Thank you. 13:32:12 To promote development, we know we must conquer the diseases that kill people and progress. Last December, India immunized 140 million children against polio, the biggest public health effort in human history. I congratulate you on that. (Applause.) 13:32:41 I have launched an initiative in the United States to speed the development of vaccines for malaria, tuberculosis and AIDS -- the biggest infectious killers of our time. This July, when our partners in the G-9 meet in Japan, I will urge them to join us. 13:33:04 But that is not enough, for at best, effective vaccines are years away. Especially for AIDS, we need a commitment today to prevention, and that means straight talk and an and to stigmatizing. 13:33:20 As Prime Minister Vajpayee said, no one should ever speak of AIDS as someone else's problem. This has long been a big problem for the United States, it is now a big problem for you. I promise you America's partnership in the continued struggle. (Applause.) 13:33:45 To promote development, we know we must also stand with those struggling for human rights and freedom around the world and in the region. For as the economist Amartya Sen has said, no system of government has done a better job in easing human want, in averting human catastrophes, than democracy. 13:34:07 I am proud America and India will stand together on the right side of history when we launch the Community of Democracies in Warsaw this summer. 13:34:17 All of these steps are essential to lifting people's lives. But there is yet another. With greater trade and the growth it brings, we can multiply the gains of education, better health and democratic empowerment. That is why i hope we will work together to launch a new global trade round that will promote economic development for all. NOT ON TAPE One of the benefits of the World Trade Organization is that it has given developing countries a bigger voice in global trade policy. 13:35:20 Developing countries have used that voice to urge richer nations to open their markets further so that all can have a chance to grow. That is something the opponents of the WTO don't fully appreciate yet. 13:35:34 We need to remind them that when Indians and Brazilians and Indonesians speak up for open trade, they are not speaking for some narrow corporate interest, but for a huge part of humanity that has no interest in being saved from development. Of course, trade should not be a race to the bottom in environmental and labor standards, but neither should fears about trade keep part of our global community forever at the bottom. 13:36:05 Yet we must also remember that those who are concerned about the impact of globalization in terms of inequality, in environmental degradation do speak for a large part of humanity. 13:36:16 Those who believe that trade should contribute not just to the wealth, but also to the fairness of societies; those who share Nehru's dream of a structure for living that fulfills our material needs, and at the same time sustains our mind and spirit. 13:36:35 We can advance these values without engaging in rich-country protectionism. Indeed, to sustain a consensus for open trade, we must find a way to advance these values as well . That is my motivation, and my only motivation, in seeking a dialogue about the connections between labor, the environment, and trade and development. 13:37:01 I would remind you -- and I want to emphasize this -- the United States has the most open markets of any wealthy country in the world, we have the largest trade deficit. We also have had a strong economy, because we have welcomed the -products and the services from the labor of people throughout the world. I am for an open global trading system. But we must do it in a way that advances the cause of social justice around the world. (Applause.) 13:37:39 The third challenge we face is to see that the prosperity and growth of the information age require us to abandon some of the outdated truths of the Industrial Age. As the economy grows faster today, for example, when children are kept in school, not put to work. Think about the industries that are driving our growth today in India and in America. Just as oil enriched the nations who had it in the 20th century, clearly knowledge is doing the same for the nations who have it in the 21st century. The difference is, knowledge can be tapped by all people everywhere, and it will never run out. 13:38:26 We must also find ways to achieve robust growth while protecting the environment and reversing climate change. I'm convinced we can do that as well. 13:38:38 We will see in the next few years, for example, automobiles that are three, four, perhaps five times as efficient as those being driven today. Soon scientists will make alternative sources of energy more widely available and more fordable. Trust for example, before long chemists almost certainly will unlock the block that will allow us to produce eight or nine gallons of fuel from bio-fuels, farm fuels, using only one gallon of gasoline. 13:39:11 Indian scientists are at the forefront of this kind of research -- pioneering the use of solar energy to power rural communities developing electric cars for use in crowded cities; converting agricultural waste Into electricity. 13:39:29 If we can deepen our cooperation for clean energy, we will, strengthen our economies, improve our people's health and fight global warming. This should be a vital element of our new partnership. 13:39:44 A fourth challenge we face is to protect the gains of and development from the forces which threaten to undermine them. There is the danger of organized crime and drugs. There is the evil of trafficking in human beings, a modern form of slavery. And of course, there is the threat of terrorism. Both our nations know it all too well. 13:40:12 Americans understood the pain and agony you went through during the Indian Airlines hijacking. And I saw that pain firsthand when :[ met with the parents and the widow of the young man who was killed on that airplane. (Applause.) We grieve with you for the Sikhs who were killed in Kashmir -- (applause) -- and our heart goes out to their families. We will work with you to build a system of justice, to strengthen our cooperation against terror. (Applause.) 13:40:59 We must never relax our vigilance or allow the perpetrators to intimidate us into retreating from our democratic ideals. 13:41:09 Another danger we face is the spread of' weapons of mass destruction to those who might have no reservations about using them. I still believe this is the greatest potential threat to the security we all face in the 21st century. It is why we must be vigilant in fighting the spread of chemical and biological weapons. 13:41:34 And it is why we must both keep working closely to resolve our remaining differences on nuclear proliferation. 13:41:43 I am aware that I speak to you on behalf of a nation that has possessed nuclear weapons for 55 years and more. But since 1988, the United States has dismantled more than 13,000,nuclear weapons. 13:42:00 We have helped Russia to dismantle their nuclear weapons and to safeguard the material that remains. We have agreed to an outline of a treaty with Russia that will reduce our remaining nuclear arsenal by more than half. 13:42:20 We are producing, no more fissile material, developing no new land-, or submarine-based missiles, engaging in no new nuclear testing. 13:42:30 From South America to South Africa, nations are forswearing these weapons, realizing that a nuclear future is not a more secure future., Most of the world is moving toward the elimination of nuclear weapons. That goal is not advanced if an country, in any region, it moves in the other direction. 13:42:30 I say this with great respect. 13:42:57 Only India can determine its own interests. Only India -- (applause) -- only India can know if it truly is safer today than before the tests. Only India can determine if it will benefit from expanding its nuclear and missile capabilities, if its neighbors respond by doing the same thing. Only India knows if it can afford a sustained investment in both conventional and nuclear forces while meeting its goals for human development. These are questions others may ask, but only you can answer. 13:43:41 I can only speak to you as a friend about America's own experience during the Cold War. We were geographically distant from the Soviet Union. We were not engaged in direct armed combat. Through years of direct dialogue with our adversary, we each had a very good idea of the other's capabilities, doctrines, and intentions. We each spent billions of dollars on elaborate command and control systems, for nuclear weapons are not cheap. 13:44:16 And yet, in spite of all of this -- and as I sometimes say jokingly, in spite of the fact that both sides had very good spies, and that was a good thing -- (laughter) -- in spite of all of this, we came far too close to nuclear war. We learned that deterrence alone cannot be relied on to prevent accident or miscalculation. And in a nuclear standoff, there,is nothing more dangerous than believing there is no danger. 13:44:51 I can also repeat what I said at the outset. India is a leader, a great nation, which by virtue of its size, its achievements, and, its example, has the ability to shape the character of our time. For any of us, to claim that mantle and assert that status is to accept first and foremost, that our actions have consequences for others beyond our borders. Great nations with broad horizons must consider whether actions advance or hinder what Nehru called the larger cause of humanity. 13:45:31 So India's nuclear policies, inevitably, have consequences beyond your borders: eroding the barriers against the spread of nuclear weapons, discouraging nations that have chosen to foreswear these weapons, encouraging others to keep their options open. 13:45:49 But if India's nuclear test shook the world, India's leadership for nonproliferation can certainly move the world. 13:46:00 India and the United States have reaffirmed our commitment to forego nuclear testing. And for that I thank the Prime minister, the government and the people of India. But in our own self interest -- and I say this again -- in our own self-interest we can do more. 13:46:19 I believe both nations should join the Comprehensive an Treaty; work to launch negotiations on a treaty production of fissile materials for nuclear weapons; strengthen export controls. 13:46:33 And India can pursue defense policies in keeping with its commitment not to seek a nuclear or missile arms race, which the Prime Minister has forcefully reaffirmed just in these last couple of days. 13:46:49 Again, I do not presume to speak for you or to tell you what to decide. It is not my place. You are a great nation and you must decide. But I ask you to continue our dislodge on these issues. And let, us turn our dialogue into a genuine partnership against proliferation. If we make progress in narrowing our differences, we will be both more secure, and our relationship can reach its full potential. 13:47:21 I hope progress can also be made in overcoming a source of tension in this region, including the tensions between India and Pakistan. I share many of your government's concerns about the course Pakistan is taking; your disappointment that past overtures have not always, met with success; your outrage over recent violence. 13:47:44 I know it is difficult to be a democracy bordered by nations whose governments reject democracy. 13:47:52 But I also believe 13:47:55 I also believe India has a special opportunity, as a democracy, to show its neighbors that democracy is about dialogue, it does not have to be about friendship, but it is about building working relationships among people who differ. 13:48:16 One of the wisest things anyone ever said to me is that you don't make peace with your friends. That is what the late Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin, told me before he signed the Oslo Accords with the Palestinians, with whom he had been fighting for decades. 13:48:41 It is well to remember -- I remind myself of it all the even when I have arguments with members of the other party in my Congress -- (laughter) -- you don't make peace with your friends. 13:48:56 Engagement with adversaries is not the same thing as endorsement. It does not require setting, aside legitimate grievances. Indeed, I strongly believe that what has happened since your Prime Minister made his courageous journey to Lahore only reinforces the need for dialogue. (applause) 13:49:24 I can think of no enduring solution to this problem that can be achieved in any other way. In the end, for the sake of the innocents who always suffer the most, someone must and the contest of inflicting and absorbing pain. NOT ON TAPE Let me also make clear, as I have repeatedly, I have certainly not come to South Asia to mediate the dispute over Kashmir. Only India and Pakistan can work out the problems between them. 13:49:50 And I will say the same thing to General Musharraf in Islambad. 13:49:55 But if outsiders cannot resolve this problem, I hope you will create the opportunity to do it yourselves, calling in the Support of others who can help where possible, as American diplomacy did in urging the Pakistanis to go back behind the line of control in the Kargil crisis. (Applause.) 13:50:23 In the meantime, I will continue to stress that this should be a time for restraint, for respect for the-line of control, for renewed lines of communication. 13:50:35 Addressing this challenge and all the others I mentioned will require us to be closer partners and better friends, and to remember that good friends, out of respect, are honest with one another. And even when they do not agree, they always try to find common ground. 13:50:57 I have read that one of the unique qualities of Indian classical music is its elasticity. the composer lays down a foundation, a structure of melodic and rhythmic arrangements, but the player has to improvise within that structure to bring the raga* to life. 13:51:17 Our relationship is like that. The composers of our past have given us a foundation of shared democratic ideals. It is up to us to give life to those ideals In this time. The not have to be the same to be beautiful to both of us. 13:51:41 But if we listen to each other, and we strive to realize our vision together, we will write a symphony far greater than the sum of our individual notes. 13:51:52 The key is to genuinely and respectfully listen to each other. If we do, Americans will better understand the scope of India's achievements, and the dangers India still faces in this troubled part of the world. 13:52:09 We will understand that India will not choose a particular course simply because others wish it to do so. It will choose only what it believes its interests clearly demand and what its people democratically embrace. 13:52:24 If we listen to each other, I also believe Indians will understand better that America very. much wants you to succeed. Time and again -- (applause) -- time and again in my time as President, America has found that it is the weakness of great nations, not their strength, that threatens our vision for tomorrow. 13:52:51 So we want India to be strong; to be secure; to be united; to be a force for a safer, more prosperous, more democratic world. Whatever we ask of you, we ask in that spirit alone - After too long a period of estrangement, India, and the United States have learned chat being natural allies is a wonderful thing, but it is not enough. 13:53:23 Our task is to turn a common vision into common achievements so that partners in spirit can be partners in fact. We have already come a long way to this day of now beginnings, but we still have promises to keep, challenges to meet and hopes to redeem. 13:53:51 So let us seize this moment with humility in the fragile and fleeting nature of this life, but,absolute confidence 4n the power of the human spirit. Let us seize it for India, for America, for all those with whom we share this small planet, and for all the children that together we can give such bright tomorrows. Thank you very much. (Applause.) END 11:45 A.M. (L)

WHITE HOUSE: PRESIDENT BILL CLINTON NEW DELHI, INDIA PARLIAMENT SPEECH 11:53:18 COURTYARD WALK HEAD ON 13:08:14 WALK IN 13:20:05 CLINTON TO PODIUM - ZOOM IN 13:56:32 PODIUM HANDSHAKES 13:56:58 CLINTON WAVES, SITS 13:57:38 PRIME MINISTER SPEAKS 14:14:21 CLINTON UP AISLE 14:14:52 SCARF 14:19:59 OTS CLINTON HANDS TOWARDS DOOR THE WHITE HOUSE OFFICE OF THE PRESS SECRETARY (Now Delhi, India) March 22, 2000 For Immediate Release REMARKS BY THE PRESIDENT TO THE INDIAN JOINT SESSION OF PARLIAMENT Parliament New Delhi, India 11:10 A.M. (L) 13:18:24 THE PRESIDENT; Mr, vice President, Mr. Prime Minister, Mr. Speaker; members of the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, I am privileged to speak to you And, through you, to the people of India. I am honored to be joined today by members of my Cabinet and staff at the White House, and a very large representation of members of our United States Congress from both political parties 13:18:58 We're all honored to be here and we thank you for your warm welcome (Applause) 13:19:09 I would also like to thank the people of India for their kindness to my daughter and my mother-in-law and, on their previous trip to my wife and my daughter (Applause) 13:19:26 I have looked forward to this day with great anticipation. This whole trip has meant a great deal to me, especially to this point, the opportunity I had to visit the Gandhi memorial, to express on behalf of all the people of the United States our gratitude for the life, the work, the thought of Gandhi, without which the great civil rights revolution in the United States would never had succeeded on a peaceful plane (Applause) 13:20:26 As Prime Minister Vajpayee has said, India and America are natural allies, two nations conceived in liberty, each finding strength in its diversity, each seeing in the other a reflection of its own aspiration for a more humane and just world. 13:20:31 A poet once said the world's inhabitants can be divided into " those that have seen the Taj Mahal and those that have not." (Laughter) Well, in a few hours I will have a chance to cross over to the happier side of that divide. But I hope, in a larger sense, that my visit will help the American people to see the new India and to understand you better. And I hope that the visit will help India to understand America better 13:21:09 And that by listening to each other we can build a true partnership of mutual respect and common endeavor 13:21:18 From a distance, India often appears as a kaleidoscope of competing, perhaps superficial, image is it atomic weapons, or ahimsa? A land struggling against poverty and inequality, or the world's largest middle-class society? 13:21:29 Is it still simmering with communal tensions, or history's most successful melting pot? Is it Bollywood or Satyajit Ray? Swetta Chetty or Alla Rakha? Is it the handloom or the hyperlink? 13:22:00 The truth is, no single image can possibly do justice to your great nation. But beyond the complexities and the apparent contradictions, I believe India teaches us some very basic lessons 13:22:17 The first is about democracy. There are still those who deny democracy is a universal aspiration who say it works only for people of a certain culture, or a certain degree of economic development. India has been proving them wrong for 52 years now. 13:32:40 Here is a country where more than 2 million people hold elected office in local government a country that shows at every election that those who possess the least cherish their vote the most 13:22:56 Far from washing away the uniqueness of your culture, your democracy has brought out the richness of its tapestry, and given you the knot that holds it together. 13:23:10 A second lesson India teaches is about diversity. You have already heard remarks about that this morning. But around the world there is a chorus of voices who say ethnic and religious diversity is a threat; who argue that the only way to keep different people from killing one another is to keep them as far, apart as possible, But India has shown us a better way 13:23:40 For a the troubles you have seen, surely the subcontinent has seen more innocence hurt in the efforts to divide people by ethnicity and faith than by the e-efforts to bring them together in peace and harmony 13:23:58 Under trying circumstances, you have shown the world how to live with difference, You have shown that tolerance and mutual respect are in many ways the keys to our common survival. That is something the whole world needs to learn 13:24:18 A third lesson India teaches is about globalization and what may be the central debate of our time. Many people believe the forces of globalization are inherently divisive; that they can only widen the gap between rich and poor. That is a valid fear, but I believe wrong 13:24:46 As the distance between producers large and small, and customers near and far become less relevant, developing countries will have opportunities not only to succeed, but to lead in lifting more people out of poverty more quickly than at any time in human history 13:25:09 In the old economy, location was everything. In the new economy, information, education and motivation are everything -- and India is proving it 13:25:26 You liberated your markets and now you have one of the 10 fastest growing economies in the world. At the rate of growth within your grasp, India's standard of living could rise by 500 percent in just 20 years 13:25:41 You embraced information technology and now, when Americans and other big software companies call for consumer and customer support, they're lust as likely to find themselves talking to an expert in Bangalore as one in Seattle (Applause) 13:26:04 You decentralized authority, giving more individuals and Communities the freedom to succeed. In that way, you affirmed what every successful country is finding in its own way: globalization does not favor nations with a licensing raj, it does favor nations with a panchayat raj. And the world has been beating a path to your door. 13:26:29 In the new millennium, every great country must answer one overarching question, how shall we define our greatness? Every country -- America included -- is tempted to cling to yesterday's definition of economic and military might. 13:26:59 But true leadership for the United States and India derives more from the power of our example and the potential of our people. 13:27:09 I believe that the greatest of India's many gifts to the world is the example its people have set "from Midnight to Millennium." Think of it: virtually every challenge humanity knows can be found here in India. And every solution to every challenge can be found here as well: confidence in democracy; tolerance for diversity; a willingness to embrace social change. 13:27:37 That is why Americans admire India; why we welcome India's Leadership in the region and the world; and Why we want to take our partnership to a new level, to advance our common values and interests, and to resolve the differences that still remain. 13:27:56 There were long periods when that would not have been possible. Though our democratic ideals gave us a starting point in common, and our dreams of peace and prosperity gave us a common destination, there was for too long too little common ground between East and West, North and South. 13:28:22 Now, thankfully, the old barriers between nations and people, economies and cultures, are being replaced by vast networks of cooperation and commerce. With our open, entrepreneurial societies, India and America are at the center of those networks. We must expand them, and defeat the forces that threaten them. 13:28:49 To succeed, I believe there are four large challenges India and the United States must meet together -- challenges that should define our partnership in the years ahead. 13:29:04 The first of these challenges is to get our, own economic relationship right. Americans have applauded your efforts to open your economy, your commitment to a new wave of economic reform, your determination to bring the fruits of growth to all your people. 13:29:23 We are proud to support India's growth as your largest partner in trade and investment. And we want to see more Indian and more Americans benefit from our economic ties, especially in the cutting edge fields of information technology, biotechnology and clean energy. 13:29:41 The private sector will drive this progress, but our job as governments is to create the conditions that will allow them to succeed in doing so, and to reduce the remaining impediments to trade and investment between us. 13:29:57 Our second challenge is to sustain global economic growth in a way that lifts the lives of rich and poor alike, both across and within national borders. Part of the world today lives at the cutting edge of change, while a big part still exists at the bare ,edge of survival, Part of the world lives in the information age. 13:30:29 Part of the world does riot even reach the clean water age. And often the two live side by side. It is unacceptable, it is intolerable; thankfully, it is unnecessary and it is far more than a regional crisis. whether around the corner or around the world, abject poverty in this new economy is an Affront to our common humanity and a threat to our common prosperity. 13:31:00 The problem is truly immense, as you know far better than I. But perhaps for the first time in all history, few would dispute that we know the solutions. We know we need to invest in education and literacy, children can have soaring dreams and the tools to realize We know we need to make a special commitment in developing nations to the education of young girls, as well as young boys. Everything we have learned about development tells us that when women have access to knowledge, to health, to economic opportunity and to civil rights, children thrive, families succeed and countries prosper. 13:31:42 Here again, we see how a problem and its answers can be found side by side in India, For every economist who - preaches the virtues of women's empowerment points at first to the achievements of India's state of Kerala -- I knew there would be somebody here from Kerala (laughter and applause.) Thank you. 13:32:12 To promote development, we know we must conquer the diseases that kill people and progress. Last December, India immunized 140 million children against polio, the biggest public health effort in human history. I congratulate you on that. (Applause.) 13:32:41 I have launched an initiative in the United States to speed the development of vaccines for malaria, tuberculosis and AIDS -- the biggest infectious killers of our time. This July, when our partners in the G-9 meet in Japan, I will urge them to join us. 13:33:04 But that is not enough, for at best, effective vaccines are years away. Especially for AIDS, we need a commitment today to prevention, and that means straight talk and an and to stigmatizing. 13:33:20 As Prime Minister Vajpayee said, no one should ever speak of AIDS as someone else's problem. This has long been a big problem for the United States, it is now a big problem for you. I promise you America's partnership in the continued struggle. (Applause.) 13:33:45 To promote development, we know we must also stand with those struggling for human rights and freedom around the world and in the region. For as the economist Amartya Sen has said, no system of government has done a better job in easing human want, in averting human catastrophes, than democracy. 13:34:07 I am proud America and India will stand together on the right side of history when we launch the Community of Democracies in Warsaw this summer. 13:34:17 All of these steps are essential to lifting people's lives. But there is yet another. With greater trade and the growth it brings, we can multiply the gains of education, better health and democratic empowerment. That is why i hope we will work together to launch a new global trade round that will promote economic development for all. NOT ON TAPE One of the benefits of the World Trade Organization is that it has given developing countries a bigger voice in global trade policy. 13:35:20 Developing countries have used that voice to urge richer nations to open their markets further so that all can have a chance to grow. That is something the opponents of the WTO don't fully appreciate yet. 13:35:34 We need to remind them that when Indians and Brazilians and Indonesians speak up for open trade, they are not speaking for some narrow corporate interest, but for a huge part of humanity that has no interest in being saved from development. Of course, trade should not be a race to the bottom in environmental and labor standards, but neither should fears about trade keep part of our global community forever at the bottom. 13:36:05 Yet we must also remember that those who are concerned about the impact of globalization in terms of inequality, in environmental degradation do speak for a large part of humanity. 13:36:16 Those who believe that trade should contribute not just to the wealth, but also to the fairness of societies; those who share Nehru's dream of a structure for living that fulfills our material needs, and at the same time sustains our mind and spirit. 13:36:35 We can advance these values without engaging in rich-country protectionism. Indeed, to sustain a consensus for open trade, we must find a way to advance these values as well . That is my motivation, and my only motivation, in seeking a dialogue about the connections between labor, the environment, and trade and development. 13:37:01 I would remind you -- and I want to emphasize this -- the United States has the most open markets of any wealthy country in the world, we have the largest trade deficit. We also have had a strong economy, because we have welcomed the -products and the services from the labor of people throughout the world. I am for an open global trading system. But we must do it in a way that advances the cause of social justice around the world. (Applause.) 13:37:39 The third challenge we face is to see that the prosperity and growth of the information age require us to abandon some of the outdated truths of the Industrial Age. As the economy grows faster today, for example, when children are kept in school, not put to work. Think about the industries that are driving our growth today in India and in America. Just as oil enriched the nations who had it in the 20th century, clearly knowledge is doing the same for the nations who have it in the 21st century. The difference is, knowledge can be tapped by all people everywhere, and it will never run out. 13:38:26 We must also find ways to achieve robust growth while protecting the environment and reversing climate change. I'm convinced we can do that as well. 13:38:38 We will see in the next few years, for example, automobiles that are three, four, perhaps five times as efficient as those being driven today. Soon scientists will make alternative sources of energy more widely available and more fordable. Trust for example, before long chemists almost certainly will unlock the block that will allow us to produce eight or nine gallons of fuel from bio-fuels, farm fuels, using only one gallon of gasoline. 13:39:11 Indian scientists are at the forefront of this kind of research -- pioneering the use of solar energy to power rural communities developing electric cars for use in crowded cities; converting agricultural waste Into electricity. 13:39:29 If we can deepen our cooperation for clean energy, we will, strengthen our economies, improve our people's health and fight global warming. This should be a vital element of our new partnership. 13:39:44 A fourth challenge we face is to protect the gains of and development from the forces which threaten to undermine them. There is the danger of organized crime and drugs. There is the evil of trafficking in human beings, a modern form of slavery. And of course, there is the threat of terrorism. Both our nations know it all too well. 13:40:12 Americans understood the pain and agony you went through during the Indian Airlines hijacking. And I saw that pain firsthand when :[ met with the parents and the widow of the young man who was killed on that airplane. (Applause.) We grieve with you for the Sikhs who were killed in Kashmir -- (applause) -- and our heart goes out to their families. We will work with you to build a system of justice, to strengthen our cooperation against terror. (Applause.) 13:40:59 We must never relax our vigilance or allow the perpetrators to intimidate us into retreating from our democratic ideals. 13:41:09 Another danger we face is the spread of' weapons of mass destruction to those who might have no reservations about using them. I still believe this is the greatest potential threat to the security we all face in the 21st century. It is why we must be vigilant in fighting the spread of chemical and biological weapons. 13:41:34 And it is why we must both keep working closely to resolve our remaining differences on nuclear proliferation. 13:41:43 I am aware that I speak to you on behalf of a nation that has possessed nuclear weapons for 55 years and more. But since 1988, the United States has dismantled more than 13,000,nuclear weapons. 13:42:00 We have helped Russia to dismantle their nuclear weapons and to safeguard the material that remains. We have agreed to an outline of a treaty with Russia that will reduce our remaining nuclear arsenal by more than half. 13:42:20 We are producing, no more fissile material, developing no new land-, or submarine-based missiles, engaging in no new nuclear testing. 13:42:30 From South America to South Africa, nations are forswearing these weapons, realizing that a nuclear future is not a more secure future., Most of the world is moving toward the elimination of nuclear weapons. That goal is not advanced if an country, in any region, it moves in the other direction. 13:42:30 I say this with great respect. 13:42:57 Only India can determine its own interests. Only India -- (applause) -- only India can know if it truly is safer today than before the tests. Only India can determine if it will benefit from expanding its nuclear and missile capabilities, if its neighbors respond by doing the same thing. Only India knows if it can afford a sustained investment in both conventional and nuclear forces while meeting its goals for human development. These are questions others may ask, but only you can answer. 13:43:41 I can only speak to you as a friend about America's own experience during the Cold War. We were geographically distant from the Soviet Union. We were not engaged in direct armed combat. Through years of direct dialogue with our adversary, we each had a very good idea of the other's capabilities, doctrines, and intentions. We each spent billions of dollars on elaborate command and control systems, for nuclear weapons are not cheap. 13:44:16 And yet, in spite of all of this -- and as I sometimes say jokingly, in spite of the fact that both sides had very good spies, and that was a good thing -- (laughter) -- in spite of all of this, we came far too close to nuclear war. We learned that deterrence alone cannot be relied on to prevent accident or miscalculation. And in a nuclear standoff, there,is nothing more dangerous than believing there is no danger. 13:44:51 I can also repeat what I said at the outset. India is a leader, a great nation, which by virtue of its size, its achievements, and, its example, has the ability to shape the character of our time. For any of us, to claim that mantle and assert that status is to accept first and foremost, that our actions have consequences for others beyond our borders. Great nations with broad horizons must consider whether actions advance or hinder what Nehru called the larger cause of humanity. 13:45:31 So India's nuclear policies, inevitably, have consequences beyond your borders: eroding the barriers against the spread of nuclear weapons, discouraging nations that have chosen to foreswear these weapons, encouraging others to keep their options open. 13:45:49 But if India's nuclear test shook the world, India's leadership for nonproliferation can certainly move the world. 13:46:00 India and the United States have reaffirmed our commitment to forego nuclear testing. And for that I thank the Prime minister, the government and the people of India. But in our own self interest -- and I say this again -- in our own self-interest we can do more. 13:46:19 I believe both nations should join the Comprehensive an Treaty; work to launch negotiations on a treaty production of fissile materials for nuclear weapons; strengthen export controls. 13:46:33 And India can pursue defense policies in keeping with its commitment not to seek a nuclear or missile arms race, which the Prime Minister has forcefully reaffirmed just in these last couple of days. 13:46:49 Again, I do not presume to speak for you or to tell you what to decide. It is not my place. You are a great nation and you must decide. But I ask you to continue our dislodge on these issues. And let, us turn our dialogue into a genuine partnership against proliferation. If we make progress in narrowing our differences, we will be both more secure, and our relationship can reach its full potential. 13:47:21 I hope progress can also be made in overcoming a source of tension in this region, including the tensions between India and Pakistan. I share many of your government's concerns about the course Pakistan is taking; your disappointment that past overtures have not always, met with success; your outrage over recent violence. 13:47:44 I know it is difficult to be a democracy bordered by nations whose governments reject democracy. 13:47:52 But I also believe 13:47:55 I also believe India has a special opportunity, as a democracy, to show its neighbors that democracy is about dialogue, it does not have to be about friendship, but it is about building working relationships among people who differ. 13:48:16 One of the wisest things anyone ever said to me is that you don't make peace with your friends. That is what the late Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin, told me before he signed the Oslo Accords with the Palestinians, with whom he had been fighting for decades. 13:48:41 It is well to remember -- I remind myself of it all the even when I have arguments with members of the other party in my Congress -- (laughter) -- you don't make peace with your friends. 13:48:56 Engagement with adversaries is not the same thing as endorsement. It does not require setting, aside legitimate grievances. Indeed, I strongly believe that what has happened since your Prime Minister made his courageous journey to Lahore only reinforces the need for dialogue. (applause) 13:49:24 I can think of no enduring solution to this problem that can be achieved in any other way. In the end, for the sake of the innocents who always suffer the most, someone must and the contest of inflicting and absorbing pain. NOT ON TAPE Let me also make clear, as I have repeatedly, I have certainly not come to South Asia to mediate the dispute over Kashmir. Only India and Pakistan can work out the problems between them. 13:49:50 And I will say the same thing to General Musharraf in Islambad. 13:49:55 But if outsiders cannot resolve this problem, I hope you will create the opportunity to do it yourselves, calling in the Support of others who can help where possible, as American diplomacy did in urging the Pakistanis to go back behind the line of control in the Kargil crisis. (Applause.) 13:50:23 In the meantime, I will continue to stress that this should be a time for restraint, for respect for the-line of control, for renewed lines of communication. 13:50:35 Addressing this challenge and all the others I mentioned will require us to be closer partners and better friends, and to remember that good friends, out of respect, are honest with one another. And even when they do not agree, they always try to find common ground. 13:50:57 I have read that one of the unique qualities of Indian classical music is its elasticity. the composer lays down a foundation, a structure of melodic and rhythmic arrangements, but the player has to improvise within that structure to bring the raga* to life. 13:51:17 Our relationship is like that. The composers of our past have given us a foundation of shared democratic ideals. It is up to us to give life to those ideals In this time. The not have to be the same to be beautiful to both of us. 13:51:41 But if we listen to each other, and we strive to realize our vision together, we will write a symphony far greater than the sum of our individual notes. 13:51:52 The key is to genuinely and respectfully listen to each other. If we do, Americans will better understand the scope of India's achievements, and the dangers India still faces in this troubled part of the world. 13:52:09 We will understand that India will not choose a particular course simply because others wish it to do so. It will choose only what it believes its interests clearly demand and what its people democratically embrace. 13:52:24 If we listen to each other, I also believe Indians will understand better that America very. much wants you to succeed. Time and again -- (applause) -- time and again in my time as President, America has found that it is the weakness of great nations, not their strength, that threatens our vision for tomorrow. 13:52:51 So we want India to be strong; to be secure; to be united; to be a force for a safer, more prosperous, more democratic world. Whatever we ask of you, we ask in that spirit alone - After too long a period of estrangement, India, and the United States have learned chat being natural allies is a wonderful thing, but it is not enough. 13:53:23 Our task is to turn a common vision into common achievements so that partners in spirit can be partners in fact. We have already come a long way to this day of now beginnings, but we still have promises to keep, challenges to meet and hopes to redeem. 13:53:51 So let us seize this moment with humility in the fragile and fleeting nature of this life, but,absolute confidence 4n the power of the human spirit. Let us seize it for India, for America, for all those with whom we share this small planet, and for all the children that together we can give such bright tomorrows. Thank you very much. (Applause.) END 11:45 A.M. (L)

AP-APTN-1830 North America Prime News -Final Sunday, 17 January 2010 North America Prime News +Haiti Aftermath 3 04:45 AP Clients Only WRAP Airport, mass in damaged cathedral ADDS US people leaving Haiti Elderly 02:25 AP Clients Only REPLAY Elderly starving residents abandoned in nursing home after quake US Haiti 02:22 See Script REPLAY Sunday talk shows on Haiti, officials on airport situation Afghanistan Holbrooke 01:54 AP Clients Only REPLAY Presser by US special envoy for Afghanistan and Pakistan Iraq Ali 2 01:52 Part No Access Iraq WRAP Al-Majid gets death penalty for Halabja attack; sentencing +GRAPHIC+ Spain Politician 02:43 See Script REPLAY Spanish lawmaker comments after FBI uses his photo for bin Laden poster Chile Voting 2 03:11 Pt No Access Chile WRAP Chileans cast votes in presidential election, Bachelet +Ukraine Election 9 03:17 AP Clients Only WRAP Yushchenko sot; Donetsk, monks, troops vote ADDS exit poll B-u-l-l-e-t-i-n begins at 1830 GMT. APEX 01-17-10 1357EST -----------End of rundown----------- AP-APTN-1830: +Haiti Aftermath 3 Sunday, 17 January 2010 STORY:+Haiti Aftermath 3- WRAP Airport, mass in damaged cathedral ADDS US people leaving LENGTH: 03:51 FIRST RUN: 1830 RESTRICTIONS: AP Clients Only TYPE: English/Creole/Nat SOURCE: AP TELEVISION STORY NUMBER: 633661 DATELINE: Port au Prince, 17 Jan 2010 LENGTH: 03:51 AP TELEVISION - AP CLIENTS ONLY SHOTLIST ++NEW (FIRST RUN 1830 NORTH AMERICA PRIME NEWS - 17 JANUARY 2010) 1. Wide of evacuees lined up on runway 2. SOUNDBITE (English) Kevan Hanson, US Coast Guard Lieutenant: "The medical treatment will be better there. The living conditions are going to be better. Just to get them out of here." 3. Two boys in foreground, other evacuees behind them 4. SOUNDBITE (English) Colleen Hedglin, American escorting children being evacuated: "It's a gift right now. We're leaving lots of good friends behind them. I'm going to come back." (Question: You're going to come back?) "I have to." 5. Evacuees heading to Coast Guard plane 6. Coast Guard official and evacuees 7. Woman and child and other evacuees waiting 8. Hedglin and children getting on plane 9. Wide of plane with evacuees waiting (FIRST RUN 1430 ME EUROPE PRIME NEWS - 17 JANUARY 2010) 10. Pan from Continental airline plane to workers organising shipping boxes 11. Workers organising boxes 12. Slow pan of workers and equipment 13. Helicopter preparing to take off 14. Pan of front loader moving supplies past workers 15. Soldiers on tarmac with helicopter taking off and coast guard plane taxiing in background (FIRST RUN 1630 EUROPE PRIME NEWS - 17 JANUARY 2010) 16. Wide of shattered Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, car under rubble in foreground 17. Close of broken stained glass window, pull out to show remains of cathedral 18. Pan of congregation 19. Close of young congregant 20. Man directing song 21. Wide of congregation singing 22. Close of woman singing 23. Close of woman's hand counting rosary 24. Close of woman's face, pulls out 25. Father Marie-Eric Toussaint leading prayers 26. Congregation praying 27. Close of woman holding rosary 28. Congregants taking communion 29. Close of communion chalice 30. SOUNDBITE (Creole) Father Marie-Eric Toussaint, Catholic Priest: "We tell them to live with faith because it is a difficult situation to live through, but they have to trust God because he is there to help them to rebuild Haiti and the community." 31. Top shot, pan from Toussaint to congregation STORYLINE US Coast Guard officials loaded 50 earthquake survivors on a plane bound for Santo Domingo on Sunday, while Haitians in the quake-devastated capital of Port-au-Prince attended Sunday Mass in a partially collapsed cathedral. From the Dominican capital, the evacuees were expected to travel on to other destinations. Coast Guard Lieutenant Kevan Hanson the evacuees are being ferried to Santo Domingo to get them in "a better condition." "The medical treatment will be better there. The living conditions will be better. Just to get them out of here," he said. Many of the evacuees were children. Colleen Hedglin was escorting children to safety. She described the evacuation as "a gift." But said she would have to return. "We're leaving lots of good friends behind. I'm going to come back." As the main delivery point for aid, the airport was clogged with planes and personnel. Workers unload planes that make it in, while helicopters and other planes land and takeoff. The airport is a choke point for supplies, with the international effort straining its capacity. The aid was slowly reaching survivors as rescue crews battled against time to pull out a shrinking number of people still alive under the ruins. Among the ruins of Port-au-Prince's Roman Catholic cathedral, Haitians were giving thanks for simply being alive at Sunday Mass. Preaching to a small crowd of survivors inside the cathedral's remaining walls after Tuesday's magnitude-7.0 earthquake, Father Marie-Eric Toussaint said he advisor his congregation "live with faith because it is a difficult situation to live through, but they have to trust God." Congregants responded with particular fervour to the priest's invocation "The Lord Be With You," responding with "And also with you. May the Lord be with All of us." As Catholic and Protestant worshippers across the city met for their first Sunday services since the magnitude-7.0 quake, many Haitians were still waiting for food and water and some took vengeance against looters. Haitians seemed increasingly frustrated by a seemingly invisible government and rescue workers were exasperated by the struggle to get aid through the small, damaged and clogged airport run by US military controllers, and to get it from the airport into town. Doctors Without Borders said Sunday that a cargo plane carrying a field hospital was denied permission to land at the airport and had to be rerouted through the Dominican Republic - creating a 24-hour delay in setting up a crucial field hospital. Nobody knows how many died in Tuesday's quake. Haiti's government alone has already recovered 20-thousand bodies - not counting those recovered by independent agencies or relatives themselves, Prime Minister Jean-Max Bellerive told The Associated Press. The Pan American Health Organisation now says 50-thousand to 100-thousand people perished in the quake. Bellerive said 100-thousand would "seem to be the minimum." UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon called the quake "one of the most serious crises in decades." Yet President Rene Preval has made no broadcast address to his nation, nor has he been seen at any disaster site. Instead he has met Cabinet ministers and foreign visitors at a police station that serves as his base following the collapse of the National Palace. Clients are reminded: (i) to check the terms of their licence agreements for use of content outside news programming and that further advice and assistance can be obtained from the AP Archive on: Tel +44 (0) 20 7482 7482 Email: infoaparchive.com (ii) they should check with the applicable collecting society in their Territory regarding the clearance of any sound recording or performance included within the AP Television News service (iii) they have editorial responsibility for the use of all and any content included within the AP Television News service and for libel, privacy, compliance and third party rights applicable to their Territory. APTN APEX 01-17-10 1418EST ------------------- END -- OF -- ITEM ------------------- AP-APTN-1830: Haiti Elderly Sunday, 17 January 2010 STORY:Haiti Elderly- REPLAY Elderly starving residents abandoned in nursing home after quake LENGTH: 02:25 FIRST RUN: 1730 RESTRICTIONS: AP Clients Only TYPE: French/Nat SOURCE: AP TELEVISION STORY NUMBER: 633654 DATELINE: Port au Prince, 17 Jan 2010 LENGTH: 02:25 AP TELEVISION - AP CLIENTS ONLY SHOTLIST 1. Pan from hospice sign to elderly people 2. Mid of elderly woman sitting on ground 3. Close-up of elderly woman 4. Mid of elderly people sheltering from sun under tree 5. Mid of hospice administrator Jean Emmanuel talking to patient 6. SOUNDBITE (French) Jean Emmanuel, hospice administrator: "The priority is to help feed our elders, because they will die of hunger, old men were killed during the earthquake. Yesterday an old man died of hunger, he was a survivor of the earthquake but he died of hunger afterwards." 7. Wide of body under sheet 8. Close-up of foot and flies 9. Wide of street scene, bed next to street 10. Mid of elderly man in wheel chair 11. Wide of man in wheel chair and body on ground 12. SOUNDBITE (French) Jean Emmanuel, hospice administrator: "Now our old people survive, but some of them cannot even breathe normally. I do not think that they will survive another day without drinking or eating." 13. Wide of elderly in wheelchairs, people helping 14. Mid of elderly man being washed 15. Close-up of elderly man being washed 16. Wide of person being pushed in wheelchair 17. SOUNDBITE (Creole) Lucien Phileas, hospice patient: ++NON VERBATIM++ "If we do not eat we'll die, if you do not drink ...." 18. Mid of elderly woman lying down 19. Close-up of elderly woman's hand 20. SOUNDBITE (Creole) Marie Ange Leve, hospice patient: ++NON VERBATIM++ "We need medication..." 21. Mid of people lying down 22. Wide of elderly people gathered under tree STORYLINE: There was no food, water or medicine on Sunday for the 85 surviving residents of the Port-au-Prince Municipal Nursing Home, just a mile (1 1/2 kilometres) from the airport where a massive international aid effort was taking shape. One man has already died, and administrator Jean Emmanuel said more would follow soon unless water and food arrive immediately. The dead man was Joseph Julien, a 70-year-old diabetic who was pulled from the partially collapsed building and passed away on Thursday for lack of food. On Sunday his body was still laying on a mattress close to those who were still alive. With six residents killed in the quake, the institution now has 25 men and 60 women camped outside their former home. Only some have a mattress in the dirt to lie on. One resident said some of them had pooled their money to buy three packets of pasta, which the dozens of pensioners shared on Thursday, their last meal. Since there was no drinking water, some didn't touch the noodles because they were cooked in gutter water. Many residents were wearing diapers that hadn't been changed since the quake. The diapers were beginning to attract rats. Nobody knows how many died in Tuesday's quake in Haiti. Haiti's government alone has already recovered 20-thousand bodies - not counting those recovered by independent agencies or relatives themselves, Prime Minister Jean-Max Bellerive told The Associated Press. The Pan American Health Organisation now says 50-thousand to 100-thousand people perished in the quake. Bellerive said 100-thousand would "seem to be the minimum." Clients are reminded: (i) to check the terms of their licence agreements for use of content outside news programming and that further advice and assistance can be obtained from the AP Archive on: Tel +44 (0) 20 7482 7482 Email: infoaparchive.com (ii) they should check with the applicable collecting society in their Territory regarding the clearance of any sound recording or performance included within the AP Television News service (iii) they have editorial responsibility for the use of all and any content included within the AP Television News service and for libel, privacy, compliance and third party rights applicable to their Territory. APTN APEX 01-17-10 1400EST ------------------- END -- OF -- ITEM ------------------- AP-APTN-1830: US Haiti Sunday, 17 January 2010 STORY:US Haiti- REPLAY Sunday talk shows on Haiti, officials on airport situation LENGTH: 02:22 FIRST RUN: 1630 RESTRICTIONS: See Script TYPE: English/Nat SOURCE: AP TELEVISION/ABC STORY NUMBER: 633653 DATELINE: Washington DC - 16/17 Jan 2010 LENGTH: 02:22 ABC THIS WEEK - NO ACCESS N AMERICA / NO ACCESS INTERNET / COURTESY ABC "THIS WEEK" AP TELEVISION - AP CLIENTS ONLY SHOTLIST: ABC THIS WEEK - NO ACCESS N AMERICA / NO ACCESS INTERNET / COURTESY ABC "THIS WEEK" 17 January 2010 1. Dr Rajiv Shah, Director USAID, in studio interview 2. Mid shot of news anchor 3. SOUNDBITE: (English) Dr Rajiv Shah, Director USAID "We... immediately after this happened, the President pulled everyone together and said look I want you all to work together. I want you to move quickly and I want you to be aggressive and be coordinated and that's exactly what we did." 4. Shah and news anchor 5. SOUNDBITE: (English) Dr Rajiv Shah, Director USAID "I mean that happened in parallel. We didn't wait. And in terms of engaging the military and the response that happened from the very beginning. The reason we are going to have all of these military assets there that will expand our distribution capability this coming week is because we acted to make that happen immediately after this disaster occurred." 6. News anchor speaking in live hook-up with Lieutenant General P.K. "Ken" Keen 7. SOUNDBITE: (English) Lieutenant General P.K. "Ken" Keen, Military Deputy Commander, USSOUTHCOM "And we are going to have to address the situation of security. As you've said we've had incidents of violence that impede our ability to support the government of Haiti and answer the challenges that this country faces, suffering the tragedy of epic proportions." AP TELEVISION - AP CLIENTS ONLY 16 January 2010 8. US President Barack Obama walking to podium with former Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush ABC THIS WEEK - NO ACCESS N AMERICA / NO ACCESS INTERNET / COURTESY ABC "THIS WEEK" 17 January 2010 9. Former Presidents Clinton and Bush with ABC host 10. SOUNDBITE: (English) Bill Clinton, former US President, UN Haiti envoy "But people have to understand, not only was the city levelled and others as well, west, the Parliament building was wrecked, the Presidential palace was wrecked. As of yesterday, there was still missing parliamentarians, still missing government ministers. I mean the country, the structure of the country was taken down and I think the United States has done a good job and I think the international community has done a good job. The UN structure was taken down. The biggest loss of life in a single day in UN history so, President Bush and I were talking before, people get frustrated by this but I think if you just, within two or three days the thing will be in much better order." 11. Three shot of Bush, Clinton and host 12. SOUNDBITE: (English) George W. Bush, former US President: "We've got to deal with the desperation and there ought to be no politicisation of that." 13. Three shot of Clinton, Bush and host 14. SOUNDBITE: (English) George W. Bush, former US President: "The question, the fundamental question for the country is "Do we care?". Beyond the storm, or earthquake, do we care? And the answer is, "I think we should". And I think we ought to care from a humanitarian perspective and I also think from a strategic perspective because it makes sense to have a stable democracy in our neighbourhood." 15. Two shot of Clinton and Bush STORYLINE: US officials said Sunday that relief efforts were focussed firmly on getting food, water and medical supplies to victims and survivors simultaneously in the aftermath of Haiti's devastating magnitude 7 earthquake. Speaking on ABC's "This Week" Sunday show, Rajiv Shah, who leads the US Agency for International Development, said President Obama had called on his agency and the military to work in parallel to gets efforts mobilised aggressively and that initial efforts were also focused on trying to find survivors in the rubble. Lieutenant General Ken Keen of the US Southern Command, speaking from Haiti, called the situation a "a disaster of epic proportions with tremendous logistical challenges." He told viewers that while more infrastructure was arriving in to the country, security had become a great concern. "As you've said, we've had incidents of violence that impede our ability to support the government of Haiti and answer the challenges that this country faces", he said. Officials believe that 100-thousand or more people died in the quake that struck the impoverished country on Tuesday. Former Presidents George W. Bush and Bill Clinton both refuted any attempt to politicise the government's response to the Haiti earthquake. Bush said that he doesn't know what critics are talking about when they claim Obama is trying to score political points with a broad response to Haiti's woes. The most vocal critic has been conservative radio talk show host Rush Limbaugh who urged people not to donate and said he wouldn't trust that money donated to Haiti through the White House Web site would go to the relief efforts. He said people contribute enough by paying income taxes. Clinton stressed that the infrastructure of Haiti had been completely destroyed and key government buildings had collapsed. He added that once the search and rescue efforts was wound down, relief efforts would become more coordinated and that the situation would then improve over the next few days. With the outpouring of donations, US officials have been urging Americans to make sure their contributions flowed to legitimate organisations. Former President George W. Bush, speaking of Haiti's despair, said Americans should care about what happens for humanitarian and national security reasons. The Haitian government meanwhile has set up 14 distribution points for food and other supplies, while US Army helicopters are scouting locations for more. Aid groups have opened five emergency health centres since the quake occurred and the UN says it's already feeding 40-thousand affected by the disaster. Clients are reminded: (i) to check the terms of their licence agreements for use of content outside news programming and that further advice and assistance can be obtained from the AP Archive on: Tel +44 (0) 20 7482 7482 Email: infoaparchive.com (ii) they should check with the applicable collecting society in their Territory regarding the clearance of any sound recording or performance included within the AP Television News service (iii) they have editorial responsibility for the use of all and any content included within the AP Television News service and for libel, privacy, compliance and third party rights applicable to their Territory. APTN APEX 01-17-10 1332EST ------------------- END -- OF -- ITEM ------------------- AP-APTN-1830: Afghanistan Holbrooke Sunday, 17 January 2010 STORY:Afghanistan Holbrooke- REPLAY Presser by US special envoy for Afghanistan and Pakistan LENGTH: 01:54 FIRST RUN: 1330 RESTRICTIONS: AP Clients Only TYPE: English/Nat SOURCE: AP TELEVISION STORY NUMBER: 633642 DATELINE: Kabul, 17 Jan 2010 LENGTH: 01:54 AP TELEVISION - AP CLIENTS ONLY SHOTLIST 1. Wide of US Special Envoy for Afghanistan and Pakistan, Richard Holbrooke, taking seat at conference room 2. Mid of Holbrooke and interviewer 3. SOUNDBITE (English) Richard Holbrooke, US Special Envoy for Afghanistan and Pakistan: "The people who demand that the foreign troops leave Afghanistan before they talk about peace are actually asking for surrender. Let us not be naive about this. In the long run, foreign troops will leave Afghanistan. We don't want to occupy Afghanistan, we are here to help you." 4. Cutaway of photographer 5. SOUNDBITE (English) Richard Holbrooke, US Special Envoy for Afghanistan and Pakistan: "The majority of the people fighting with the Taliban are not supporters of (Taliban leader) Mullah Omar, they are not supporters of the ideology of al-Qaida, they don't even know who al-Qaida is. And yet they fight because they have been misled by false information. They have been led to believe false things." 6. Mid of journalist asking question 7. SOUNDBITE (English) Richard Holbrooke, US Special Envoy for Afghanistan and Pakistan: "As for the people on what you call the blacklist, you know there are several lists and I have not read the lists carefully, because a lot of the names don't mean much to me. Some of the people on the list are dead, some shouldn't be on the list and some are amongst the most dangerous people in the world and I would be all in favour of looking at the list on a case by case basis. To see if there are people on the list who are on it by mistake and should be removed or in fact are dead." 8. Close of writing on notepad 9. Mid of Holbrooke leaving conference room STORYLINE US Special Envoy for Afghanistan and Pakistan, Richard Holbrooke told reporters in Kabul on Sunday that foreign troops would eventually pull out of Afghanistan but not in a way that suggested abandoning their mission. Holbrooke was speaking on his return from a trip to the Swat valley on the border between Afghanistan and Pakistan. It was his sixth visit to Afghanistan in the past 12 months. He told reporters that "the people who demand that the foreign troops leave Afghanistan before they talk about peace are actually asking for surrender." He also said that he supports a proposal to lure fighters with no strong allegiance to militants away from the insurgency and reintegrate them into Afghan society. "Let us not be naive about this. In the long run, foreign troops will leave Afghanistan. We don't want to occupy Afghanistan, we are here to help you," he explained. He also said he believed the support base for Taliban leader Mullah Mohammed Omar and for al-Qaida was limited and based on deception and what he called "false information." Holbrooke, who had a heated meeting last year with Afghan President Hamid Karzai over the fraud-stained Afghan presidential election, spoke at town hall-style event in the Afghan capital of Kabul where about 40 academics, videographers, representatives from non-governmental organisations, radio broadcasters and others were invited to ask Holbrooke questions. Their inquiries ranged from questions about reintegration and corruption to US economic assistance and the Pakistani intelligence service's involvement in violence in the region - a question Holbrooke declined to answer. Holbrooke also said he talked with Karzai on Sunday about a plan the government is crafting to offer jobs, vocational training and other economic incentives to tens of thousands of Taliban foot soldiers willing to switch sides after eight years of war. Asked if he would favour removing individuals, such as Mullah Omar or Afghan warlord Gulbuddin Hekmatyar, from a United Nations sanctions list, Holbrooke said he could not "imagine what would justify such an action at this time, and I don't know anyone who has suggested that." However he said that "would be all in favour of looking at the list on a case by case basis. To see if there are people on the list who are on it by mistake and should be removed or in fact are dead." The UN Security Council imposed sanctions against the Taliban in November 1999 for refusing to send Osama bin Laden to stand trial on "terrorism" charges in connection with two 1998 US embassy bombings in Africa. The sanctions - a travel ban, arms embargo and assets freeze - were later extended to al-Qaida. In July 2005, the council extended the sanctions again to cover affiliates and splinter groups of al-Qaida and the Taliban. But questions have been raised about the fairness of the list and the rights of those subject to punitive measures to argue their case for being removed. Last month, the council approved new measures to make sure that UN sanctions target the right people, companies and organisations for links to al-Qaida and the Taliban. The sanctions committee is reviewing all 488 individuals and entities on the list. Clients are reminded: (i) to check the terms of their licence agreements for use of content outside news programming and that further advice and assistance can be obtained from the AP Archive on: Tel +44 (0) 20 7482 7482 Email: infoaparchive.com (ii) they should check with the applicable collecting society in their Territory regarding the clearance of any sound recording or performance included within the AP Television News service (iii) they have editorial responsibility for the use of all and any content included within the AP Television News service and for libel, privacy, compliance and third party rights applicable to their Territory. APTN APEX 01-17-10 1334EST ------------------- END -- OF -- ITEM ------------------- AP-APTN-1830: Iraq Ali 2 Sunday, 17 January 2010 STORY:Iraq Ali 2- WRAP Al-Majid gets death penalty for Halabja attack; sentencing +GRAPHIC+ LENGTH: 01:52 FIRST RUN: 1230 RESTRICTIONS: Part No Access Iraq TYPE: Arabic/Nat SOURCE: AP TELEVISION/Al-Iraqiya STORY NUMBER: 633624 DATELINE: Baghdad, 17 Jan 2010/FILE LENGTH: 01:52 ++CLIENTS PLEASE NOTE: EDIT CONTAINS GRAPHIC IMAGES OF DEAD BODIES++ AP TELEVISION - AP CLIENTS ONLY AL-IRAQIYA - NO ACCESS IRAQ SHOTLIST ++NEW (FIRST RUN 1230 EUROPE PRIME NEWS - 17 JANUARY 2010) AL-IRAQIYA - NO ACCESS IRAQ 1. Former Iraqi official Ali Hassan al-Majid, also known as "Chemical Ali", in dock listening to sentence being read by Judge Aboud Mostafa 2. SOUNDBITE (Arabic) Judge Aboud Mostafa: ++Partly overlaid with al-Majid responding to sentence++ "Ali Hassan al-Majid was sentenced to death by hanging (Al-Majid: "Thanks to God, Thanks to God")...for the crime of murder as a crime against humanity." 3. Mid of judges bench 4. Former Iraqi Defence Minister, Sultan Hashim al-Taie, in dock 5. Mostafa speaking 6. Iraq's former Director of Military Intelligence, Sabir Azizi al-Douri 7. Lawyers taking notes (FIRST RUN 0930 AMERICAS PRIME NEWS - 17 JANUARY 2010) AP TELEVISION - AP CLIENTS ONLY 8. Various of traffic on Baghdad streets 9. SOUNDBITE (Arabic) Adnan Farhan, Baghdad Resident: "I think Chemical Ali deserved to be executed a long time ago, because the Baath (party) has committed many crimes and continues to do so today. So I think that carrying out this execution will curb these crimes and atrocities." 10. Traffic on street 11. SOUNDBITE (Arabic) Ansam al-Mahdawi, Baghdad Resident: "I think it is an unfair sentence. They were officials directed by a regime leading the country. Even now, we are all being directed by a regime or whatever political organisation or entity is in charge." (FIRST RUN 0930 AMERICAS PRIME NEWS - 17 JANUARY 2010) AP TELEVISION - AP CLIENTS ONLY FILE: Halabja - March 1988 (exact date unknown) 12. Aerial of destruction after gas attack 13. Various of dead bodies in street following gas attack ++GRAPHIC++ STORYLINE Saddam Hussein's cousin Ali Hassan al-Majid, also known as "Chemical Ali", was convicted on Sunday of crimes against humanity and received a death sentence for his involvement in the 1988 poison gas attack on Halabja. Families of some of the victims in the Baghdad court cheered when the guilty verdict against al-Majid was handed down in a trial over one of the worst poisonous gas attacks against civilians. The attack left 5,600 people dead. Al-Majid has already received previous death sentences for atrocities committed during Saddam's rule, particularly in the government's suppression of the Kurds in the late 1980s. One Baghdad resident on Sunday welcomed the court's ruling, while another described the sentence as "unfair," saying al-Majid was simply following orders. Other officials in Saddam's regime received jail terms for their roles in the attack on Halabja, a Kurdish town near the Iranian border. Former Defence Minister Sultan Hashim al-Taie faces 15 years in prison, as does Iraq's former director of military intelligence, Sabir Azizi al-Douri. Farhan Mutlaq al-Jubouri, the former head of military intelligence's eastern regional office, was sentenced to 10 years. The jail terms were handed down following guilty verdicts on charges that included crimes against humanity. Clients are reminded: (i) to check the terms of their licence agreements for use of content outside news programming and that further advice and assistance can be obtained from the AP Archive on: Tel +44 (0) 20 7482 7482 Email: infoaparchive.com (ii) they should check with the applicable collecting society in their Territory regarding the clearance of any sound recording or performance included within the AP Television News service (iii) they have editorial responsibility for the use of all and any content included within the AP Television News service and for libel, privacy, compliance and third party rights applicable to their Territory. APTN APEX 01-17-10 1335EST ------------------- END -- OF -- ITEM ------------------- AP-APTN-1830: Spain Politician Sunday, 17 January 2010 STORY:Spain Politician- REPLAY Spanish lawmaker comments after FBI uses his photo for bin Laden poster LENGTH: 02:43 FIRST RUN: 1230 RESTRICTIONS: See Script TYPE: Spanish/Nat SOURCE: AP PHOTOS/ATLAS/DoS TV STORY NUMBER: 633638 DATELINE: Madrid, 16 Jan 2010 LENGTH: 02:43 US STATE DEPARTMENT - AP CLIENTS ONLY AP PHOTOS - NO ACCESS CANADA/FOR BROADCAST USE ONLY - STRICTLY NO ACCESS ONLINE OR MOBILE ATLAS AGENCY - NO ACCESS SPAIN SHOTLIST AP PHOTOS - NO ACCESS CANADA/FOR BROADCAST USE ONLY - STRICTLY NO ACCESS ONLINE OR MOBILE Date and Location Unknown 1. STILL photo of al-Qaida leader, Osama bin Laden, not digitally aged 2. STILL of bin Laden, digitally enhanced to make him look older, wearing turban and beard 3. STILL of bin Laden, digitally enhanced to make him look older, with no beard and no turban ATLAS AGENCY - NO ACCESS SPAIN Madrid - 16 January 2010 4. Spanish politician, Gaspar Llamazares walking up to speak to reporters 5. SOUNDBITE (Spanish) Gaspar Llamazares, Politician: "In the first instance, this matter of using my image in the cut and paste picture of bin Laden without a beard would be comical if weren't an issue that affected the safety and freedom of every citizen. It's comic because it illustrates the extremely basic standards among intelligence and security services which we've noticed recently in the US and now have experienced first hand not only in the CIA, but also within the FBI." US STATE DEPARTMENT - AP CLIENTS ONLY Date and Location Unknown 6. Internet page showing digitally aged photos of al-Qaida leader, Osama bin Laden ATLAS AGENCY - NO ACCESS SPAIN Madrid - 16 January 2010 7. SOUNDBITE (Spanish) Gaspar Llamazares, Politician: "No. From what I've seen there have been no explanations given. They've not had the grace to give any explanation either to myself or to the Unidad Left." (Question: How did you feel when you heard the news. I suppose...?) "In the first instance I didn't believe it. I thought it was a joke. But it was no longer the 28th December (Saint's Day - when typically people in Spain play jokes on each other) and later, when I realised it was not a joke and that it was serious, I took it seriously and decided to act seriously." US STATE DEPARTMENT - AP CLIENTS ONLY Date and Location Unknown 8. Internet page showing digitally aged photos of bin Laden ATLAS AGENCY - NO ACCESS SPAIN Madrid - 16 January 2010 9. SOUNDBITE (Spanish) Gaspar Llamazares, Politician: "They have not said anything. They have not said anything to us, the ones who have been affected. The least they could do... the least they could have done was a phone call and a convincing explanation. But until now there have been less than excuses." AP PHOTOS - NO ACCESS CANADA/FOR BROADCAST USE ONLY - STRICTLY NO ACCESS ONLINE OR MOBILE Date and Location Unknown 10. Sequence of all three STILL photos of bin Laden ATLAS AGENCY - NO ACCESS SPAIN Madrid - 16 January 2010 11. UPSOUND (Spanish) Gaspar Llamazares, Politician: "It would not occur to me to go to, or have anything to do with the United States at this time. It wouldn't occur to me to travel to the United States. I had reservations before about going there but now I don't have reservations, I am convinced that I wouldn't be able to enter the country and that I would run into difficulties." (Question: If they invited you on a friendly basis) "No idea. Under these circumstances I think it would be unlikely. The security of Bin Laden seems not to be in any danger but mine does." 12. Llamazares walks away from cameras STORYLINE A Spanish lawmaker said he was horrified to learn that the FBI (US Federal Bureau of Investigation) used an online photograph of him to create an image showing what al-Qaida leader, Osama bin Laden might look like today. The digitally enhanced image of bin Laden - made to show what he would look like today as an older man - reportedly used Spanish lawmaker Gaspar Llamazares' photo and appeared on a wanted poster updating the US government's 1998 photo of the al-Qaida leader. FBI spokesman Ken Hoffman acknowledged to the Spanish newspaper El Mundo that the agency used a picture of Llamazares taken from Google Images. In a statement on Saturday, the agency would say only that it was aware of similarities between their age-progressed image and that of an existing photograph of a Spanish public official. The wanted poster appeared on the State Department website rewardsforjustice.net, listing a reward of up to 25 (m) million US dollars. The FBI said the photo of bin Laden would be removed from the website. Llamazares, former leader of the United Left party, was elected to Spain's parliament in 2000. The photograph of him reportedly used to make the wanted poster originally appeared on posters for his 2004 general-election campaign. He told reporters in Madrid on Saturday that he found the whole thing hard to believe at first. "In the first instance I didn't believe it. I thought it was a joke. But it was no longer the 28th December (Saint's Day - when typically people in Spain play jokes on each other) and later, when I realised it was not a joke and that it was serious, I took it seriously and decided to act seriously," he explained. Llamazares said he planned to ask the US government for an explanation and said he reserved the right to take legal action. He also said he was concerned to see the government resorting to what he called sloppy techniques, especially in the light of recent security alerts such as the attempted Christmas Day bombing of a Detroit-bound airplane. Bin Laden, who is wanted in the September 11, 2001 attacks on New York and Washington DC and the 1998 US embassy bombings in Tanzania and Kenya, is believed to be hiding in the lawless Pakistan frontier bordering Afghanistan. His exact whereabouts have been unknown since late 2001, when he and some bodyguards slipped out of the Tora Bora mountains after evading air-strikes, special forces and Afghan militias. Clients are reminded: (i) to check the terms of their licence agreements for use of content outside news programming and that further advice and assistance can be obtained from the AP Archive on: Tel +44 (0) 20 7482 7482 Email: infoaparchive.com (ii) they should check with the applicable collecting society in their Territory regarding the clearance of any sound recording or performance included within the AP Television News service (iii) they have editorial responsibility for the use of all and any content included within the AP Television News service and for libel, privacy, compliance and third party rights applicable to their Territory. APTN APEX 01-17-10 1337EST ------------------- END -- OF -- ITEM ------------------- AP-APTN-1830: Chile Voting 2 Sunday, 17 January 2010 STORY:Chile Voting 2- WRAP Chileans cast votes in presidential election, Bachelet LENGTH: 03:11 FIRST RUN: 1530 RESTRICTIONS: Pt No Access Chile TYPE: Spanish/Nat SOURCE: AP TELEVISION/CH7 STORY NUMBER: 633651 DATELINE: Santiago - 17 Jan 2010 LENGTH: 03:11 AP TELEVISION - AP CLIENTS ONLY CHANNEL 7 - NO ACCESS CHILE SHOTLIST ++NEW (FIRST RUN 1530 NEWS UPDATE - 17 JANUARY 2009) AP TELEVISION - AP CLIENTS ONLY Santiago 1. Presidential candidate Sebastian Pinera emerging from voting booth and walking over to ballot box 2. Cutaway of photographers 3. Pinera casting his ballot, with sons Cristobal (left) and Sebastian standing behind him 4. Close of ballots 5. Pinera shaking hands with unidentified man and showing his ink-stained thumb to media, hugs his wife, Cecilia Morel, before leaving poling station ++NEW (FIRST RUN 1530 NEWS UPDATE - 17 JANUARY 2009) CHANNEL 7 - NO ACCESS CHILE Santiago 6. SOUNDBITE (Spanish) Sebastian Pinera, Chilean Presidential Candidate: "Tonight we are going to celebrate a big triumph but we are going to celebrate it as democrats do, the men of good will, with joy and hope but also with unity. The triumph is the triumph of democracy." 7. Chilean president Michelle Bachelet emerging from voting booth and casting her vote 8. SOUNDBITE (Spanish) Michelle Bachelet, Chilean President: "As with all the election days in Chile I am convinced that this one as well will be quiet and normal. I call the Chilean people to go and vote early and wait with tranquillity in their homes for the results. This is a very competitive election but once again Chile will show its democratic capacities." ++NEW (FIRST RUN 1530 NEWS UPDATE - 17 JANUARY 2009) CHANNEL 7 - NO ACCESS CHILE La Union 9. Various of presidential candidate and former president Eduardo Frei casting his ballot (FIRST RUN 1230 EUROPE PRIME NEWS - 17 JANUARY 2009) AP TELEVISION - AP CLIENTS ONLY Santiago 10. Exterior of polling station 11. Couple reading information outside polling station 12. Security outside polling station 13. Wide interior of school where of polling station is being prepared 14. Close of ballot box 15. Various of woman casting her vote 16. Close of ballot box with ballots inside 17. Various of woman registering with polling station officials 18. Woman walking into polling booth 19. Cutaway of officials 20. Woman casting vote STORYLINE Chile's presidential election on Sunday could come down to a nerve-racking, vote-by-vote count after a late surge by former President Eduardo Frei made his race against billionaire Sebastian Pinera too close to predict. Pinera led every poll until Frei and outgoing President Michelle Bachelet repeatedly invoked the legacy of Augusto Pinochet's dictatorship, raising fears of a retreat on human rights if the centre-right Pinera gains power. The theme shook up the well-organised campaign of Harvard-trained economist Pinera, which had focused on economic growth, jobs and change in a country led by a coalition of centre-left politicians for 20 years. Pinera said the government was spreading lies to frighten voters. Flanked by his sons Cristobal and Sebastian, Pinera cast his ballot in the capital Santiago, hugging his wife, Cecilia Morel, as he left the polling station. "Tonight we are going to celebrate a big triumph but we are going to celebrate it as democrats do, the men of good will, with joy and hope but also with unity. The triumph is the triumph of democracy," Pinera said. Bachelet also voted in Santiago, telling reporters that the election was "very competitive." Frei, meanwhile, cast his ballot at a school in the city of La Union, nearly 900 kilometres (559 miles) south of Santiago. With Frei and Pinera agreeing on most government policies - a reflection of the remarkable economic, social and political success that has given Bachelet nearly 80 percent approval ratings as she ends her five-year term - human rights became the wild card. Bachelet, herself a torture victim, steadfastly supported judicial efforts to resolve crimes against humanity during the 1973-1990 dictatorship, and more than 700 former military and security officials have been put on trial. But efforts to resolve dictatorship-era rights abuses remain a painful topic around Latin America, and aggressive moves are not always popular. Voters in Uruguay rejected an initiative to overturn that country's amnesty laws last year, even as they elected a former rebel as president. Amnesties also remain in force in Brazil, and while Argentina overturned its amnesty laws, rights trials there have become highly politicised. The issue came to the forefront of Chile's presidential campaign last month when a judge concluded that Frei's father, a Pinochet critic, had been secretly poisoned to death. Bachelet raised it again by inaugurating Chile's Museum of Memory less than a week before the vote. And Frei pressed it hard in Wednesday's televised debate, forcing Pinera to acknowledge that "part of my sector committed errors" during the dictatorship by denying human rights violations even as thousands of Pinochet's opponents were tortured or killed. The ruling coalition "may have committed errors, but not horrors," Frei countered, noting that the death of his father would never have been investigated had the amnesty proposal Pinera made as a senator been approved. The 60-year-old Pinera said no former Pinochet Cabinet members would serve in his Cabinet, but angry supporters quickly forced him to take back the promise. The key question is whether fears of a retreat on rights cases run deep enough to persuade voters who stayed home during last month's first-round election to show up on Sunday. Most of those who abstained are leftists, and if enough of them vote this time, Pinera would lose his edge. Pinera's 15-point lead in December dropped to 1.8 percent, according to a nationwide poll published on Wednesday by the independent firm Market Opinion Research International, which showed him leading by 50.9 percent to 49.1 percent for Frei. But the 3 percentage point error margin made the race anybody's guess. Both sides ordered party representatives to scrutinise Sunday's vote count, and to challenge questionable paper ballots. Pinera had lawyers staff a hotline for challenges, and Frei's campaign was focusing its watchdog efforts on precincts where Pinera had a first-round advantage. Pinera put his PhD in economics to use popularising credit cards in Chile, growing a fortune that now includes a large share of Chile's main airline, a leading television channel and the country's most popular soccer team. He said the government has "run out of gas," and that he would create a (m) million jobs and double the Chile's median income of 12-thousand US dollars a year. Frei's 1995-2000 term was rather unremarkable and many leftists preferred the more dynamic Marco Enriquez-Ominami, who came in third in the first round and tepidly endorsed Frei last week, saying the right should be kept from the presidency. Chile's population is nearly 17 (m) million, but only 8.3 (m) million are registered to vote, and fewer than 760-thousand new voters have been added in the last 21 years under a system that makes voting mandatory for life for those who register. Frei has promised to make a priority of Enriquez-Ominami's proposal to make registration automatic and voting optional. Clients are reminded: (i) to check the terms of their licence agreements for use of content outside news programming and that further advice and assistance can be obtained from the AP Archive on: Tel +44 (0) 20 7482 7482 Email: infoaparchive.com (ii) they should check with the applicable collecting society in their Territory regarding the clearance of any sound recording or performance included within the AP Television News service (iii) they have editorial responsibility for the use of all and any content included within the AP Television News service and for libel, privacy, compliance and third party rights applicable to their Territory. APTN APEX 01-17-10 1338EST ------------------- END -- OF -- ITEM ------------------- AP-APTN-1830: +Ukraine Election 9 Sunday, 17 January 2010 STORY:+Ukraine Election 9- WRAP Yushchenko sot; Donetsk, monks, troops vote ADDS exit poll LENGTH: 03:17 FIRST RUN: 1830 RESTRICTIONS: AP Clients Only TYPE: Ukrainian/Nat SOURCE: AP TELEVISION/POOL STORY NUMBER: 633659 DATELINE: Various - 17 Jan 2010 LENGTH: 03:17 AP TELEVISION - AP CLIENTS ONLY NATIONAL EXIT POLL POOL - AP CLIENTS ONLY SHOTLIST (FIRST RUN 1130 NEWS UPDATE - 17 JANUARY 2010) AP TELEVISION - AP CLIENTS ONLY Kiev 1. Wide pan of street and polling station 2. Wide of people entering polling station 3. Mid of polling station officials 4. Wide of monks going to polling station officials to get ballot papers 5. Mid of two monks 6. Mid of monk coming out voting cabin and putting his ballot in voting box 7. Close of ballot falling inside voting box, tilt down 8. SOUNDBITE (Russian) Vladimir Kotsaba, Monk: "We hope that God will send that well-deserved person who will be able to lead our country out from that difficult condition that we have. For this we pray our God." (FIRST RUN 1230 EUROPE PRIME NEWS - 17 JANUARY 2010) AP TELEVISION - AP CLIENTS ONLY Kiev 9. Wide of incumbent presidential candidate, Victor Yuschenko approaching press 10. SOUNDBITE (Ukrainian) Victor Yushchenko, Ukrainian President: "I regret that Georgia, and our beloved Georgian people are being used for manipulations in Ukraine, and it once more proves who in reality our political leaders are and in which direction they are heading." 11. Wide of Yushchenko leaving (FIRST RUN 1130 NEWS UPDATE - 17 JANUARY 2010) AP TELEVISION - AP CLIENTS ONLY Donetsk 12. Wide of mine 13. Mid interior of polling station 14. Mid of man casting ballot 15. Woman arranging food and drinks on table 16. Close of lard 17. Pan of food and drinks on table 18. SOUNDBITE (Russian) Nikolai Sergeychuk, Voter from Donetsk: "He (Yanukovych) has done everything for Donetsk and went to Kiev to make order there, but Yulia (Tymoshenko) does not let him to put everything in order." 19. Mid of people in hallway (FIRST RUN 1330 EUROPE PRIME NEWS - 17 JANUARY 2010) AP TELEVISION - AP CLIENTS ONLY Sevastopol 20. Sevastopol skyline with harbour 21. Sailors coming out of voting booth and casting votes 22. Close-up of vote being cast 23. Pan of polling station interior 24. Mid of ballot boxes 25. Wide of interior of polling station 26. Zoom out of exterior of polling station ++NEW (FIRST RUN 1830 NORTH AMERICA PRIME NEWS - 17 JANUARY 2010) NATIONAL EXIT POLL POOL - AP CLIENTS ONLY Kiev 27. Members of Democratic Initiative Fund announcing exit poll results 28. Democratic Initiative Fund members 29. SOUNDBITE (Ukrainian) Elko Kucherev, Director of Democratic Initiative Fund: "The results are as follows: Yanukovych, Viktor - 31. 5; Tymoshenko, Yulia - 27. 2 percent; Tigipko, Sergei - 13.5; Yatseniuk, Arseniy - 7.8 percent, Yushchenko, Victor 6.0 percent." 30. Mid of exit poll announcement STORYLINE Disillusioned Ukrainian voters appear to have given archenemy of the 2004 Orange Revolution a first-place finish in the initial round of presidential voting on Sunday, setting up a showdown with the heroine of the Orange movement, an exit poll showed. Early predictions suggest the pro-Russian opposition leader Viktor Yanukovych will finish first in the hard-fought contest and Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko will finish second, clearing the path for a runoff between the pair sometime next month. The two candidates stood on opposite sides of the barricades during the peaceful mass demonstrations that kicked out a reputedly corrupt government in 2004, when Yanukovych had the backing of the Kremlin and Orange forces denounced Russian interference. Both candidates now say they will abandon efforts to join NATO and pledge to repair ties to Russia, the region's dominant power. Among those casting their vote in the capital Kiev on Sunday was monk Vladimir Kotsaba who said he hoped the election would bring a more positive future to the country. "We hope that God will send that well-deserved person who will be able to lead our country out from that difficult condition that we have. For this we pray our God," he said. President Viktor Yushchenko, elected in 2004 with 52 per cent of the vote, appeared at a polling station in Kiev although exit polls are predicting he'll take just six percent of the vote. The National Exit Poll is by a consortium of groups that conduct up to 13-thousand interviews outside 240 polling places and has a margin of error of 2.5 percentage points. Yushchenko was hospitalised with a massive dose of the chemical dioxin during the 2004 race, and his poison-scarred face became a symbol of defiance to tyranny for (m) millions around the world. Five years later, he is widely seen as an ineffective leader for failing to curb corruption and modernise Ukraine's economy. In Donetsk and in the Black Sea harbour city of Sevastopol, a southern Ukrainian city on the Crimea peninsula, many voters cast their ballots yet kept expectations low. One recent poll showed a majority of voters were concerned the election could be rigged. A suspicious Yuschenko reacted angrily to the arrival of electoral observers from neighbouring Georgia - at least 152 to the eastern city of Donetsk - on Saturday. "I regret that Georgia, and our beloved Georgian people are being used for manipulations in Ukraine, and it once more proves who in reality our political leaders are and in which direction they are heading," he said. Foes of Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko released a tape this week of a purported conversation between her and Georgian President Mikhail Saakashvili, in which he supposedly said he was sending 2,000 "battle-ready" observers to monitor the race. In a December opinion poll, only 34 per cent of Ukrainians said that they expected the election to be fair overall, while 57 per cent said the results could be manipulated or were certain to be stolen. As part of an international effort to bolster confidence in the election, foreign observers have fanned out across Ukraine to monitor voting in this country of 46 (m) million people with 36.6 (m) million registered voters. A spokesman for the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe, said on Saturday that about 600 OSCE election monitors are in place, in addition to thousands of other foreign observers. Clients are reminded: (i) to check the terms of their licence agreements for use of content outside news programming and that further advice and assistance can be obtained from the AP Archive on: Tel +44 (0) 20 7482 7482 Email: infoaparchive.com (ii) they should check with the applicable collecting society in their Territory regarding the clearance of any sound recording or performance included within the AP Television News service (iii) they have editorial responsibility for the use of all and any content included within the AP Television News service and for libel, privacy, compliance and third party rights applicable to their Territory. APTN APEX 01-17-10 1435EST ------------------- END -- OF -- ITEM -------------------

AP-APTN-1830 North America Prime News -Final Friday, 12 February 2010 North America Prime News US Clinton 7 01:56 Pt No NAmerica/Internet WRAP Former president leaves hospital after heart proceedure, arrival home ++Haiti Ceremony 2 02:51 AP Clients Only NEW Religious ceremonies a month after earthquake, Preval +Afghan Offensive 04:29 AP Clients Only WRAP Elders want quick offensive; preps for assault; conflict over deaths NKorea UN 02:48 APTN Clients Only/Pt No Access NKorea REPLAY UN envoy leaves NKorea after bid to persuade NKor to resume talks China UN NKorea 01:16 AP Clients Only REPLAY UN envoy's presser following four-day visit to North Korea Pakistan Blast Amath 00:46 AP Clients Only REPLAY Aftermath of suicide bombs, at least 15 dead, damage, coffins ++Canada Oly Torch 02:02 AP Clients Only NEW Schwarzenegger and Coe carry Olympic torch in Vancouver UK Canada Oly 01:36 AP clients only REPLAY London celebrates start of Winter Olympics in Vancouver US UK McQueen 2 03:38 AP Clients Only WRAP Models, designers, celebrities pay tribute to British designer ++Brazil Carnival 01:36 AP Clients Only REPLAY Official opening of Rio carnival, mayor hands key to King Momo B-u-l-l-e-t-i-n begins at 1830 GMT. APEX 02-12-10 1358EST -----------End of rundown----------- AP-APTN-1830: US Clinton 7 Friday, 12 February 2010 STORY:US Clinton 7- WRAP Former president leaves hospital after heart proceedure, arrival home LENGTH: 01:56 FIRST RUN: 1730 RESTRICTIONS: Pt No NAmerica/Internet TYPE: Natsound/MUTE SOURCE: AP TELEVISION/NNS STORY NUMBER: 636882 DATELINE: Various 12 Feb 2010 LENGTH: 01:56 NNS (FOX - WNYW) - No Access North America or Internet AP TELEVISION - AP CLIENTS ONLY SHOTLIST: ++NEW (FIRST RUN 1730 NEWS UPDATE - 12 FEBRUARY 2010) AP Television - AP Clients Only New York, NY 1. Marble column outside Columbia Campus New York Presbyterian Hospital's Milstein building, slow pan to the street showing media outside the hospital 2. Mid of main entrance to Milstein Hospital Building ++NEW (FIRST RUN 1730 NEWS UPDATE - 12 FEBRUARY 2010) NNS (FOX - WNYW) - No Access North America or Internet New York, NY 3. Former President Bill Clinton walking through the lobby of the hospital, shaking hand of Dr. Allan Schwartz, Cardiologist - Columbia Campus New York Presbyterian Hospital, walking out to SUV (FIRST RUN 1330 NEWS UPDATE - 12 FEBRUARY 2010) NNS (FOX - WNYW) - No Access North America or Internet ++MUTE AT SOURCE++ 4. SUV driving away from the hospital as Clinton rolls window down and waves, followed by the vehicle driving away ++NEW (FIRST RUN 1730 NEWS UPDATE - 12 FEBRUARY 2010) AP Television - AP Clients Only Chappaqua, NY 5. Clinton's home in Chappaqua 6. Close up of windows in the Clinton home in Chappaqua ++NEW (FIRST RUN 1730 NEWS UPDATE - 12 FEBRUARY 2010) NNS (FOX - WNYW) - No Access North America or Internet Chappaqua, NY ++MUTE AT SOURCE++ 7. Aerials of the convoy transporting Clinton as it arrives at his Chappaqua home followed by an overhead shot of Clinton exiting his SUV and walking into the house STORYLINE: Former US President Bill Clinton was recovering at his suburban home on Friday after leaving a Manhattan hospital where he underwent a heart procedure. Clinton adviser Douglas Band said in a statement that Clinton left New York Presbyterian Hospital "in excellent health." "He looks forward in the days ahead to getting back to the work of his Foundation, and to Haiti relief and recovery efforts," it said. Three black sport utility vehicles with tinted windows arrived around 7:45 a.m. (1245 GMT) on Friday and pulled through the high gates at the Clintons' home in Chappaqua, about 35 miles (55 kilometres) north of New York City. State Department spokesman P.J. Crowley said that Clinton's wife, Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton is at the home. Terry McAuliffe, the former Democratic National Committee chairman and a close friend of the Clintons, told CBS television that he expects Clinton will get back to work quickly. Clinton, 63, could be back at work as soon as Monday, cardiologist Allan Schwartz said previously. Clinton had quadruple bypass surgery at the same hospital more than five years ago, and returned on Thursday to have a clogged heart artery opened after suffering discomfort in his chest. Two stents resembling tiny mesh scaffolds were placed inside the artery as part of a medical procedure that is common for people with severe heart disease. Schwartz said tests had showed that one of the bypasses from the surgery was completely blocked. Instead of trying to open the blocked bypass, doctors reopened one of his original blocked arteries and inserted the two stents. The procedure took about an hour, and Clinton was able to get up two hours later, Schwartz said. There was no sign the former president had suffered a heart attack, and the new blockage was not a result of his diet, Schwartz said, describing Clinton's prognosis as excellent. Hillary Clinton travelled from Washington to New York to be with her husband. She left the hospital at about 11:30 p.m. (0430 GMT) without speaking to reporters. Clinton's daughter, Chelsea, was also with him at the hospital. Clients are reminded: (i) to check the terms of their licence agreements for use of content outside news programming and that further advice and assistance can be obtained from the AP Archive on: Tel +44 (0) 20 7482 7482 Email: infoaparchive.com (ii) they should check with the applicable collecting society in their Territory regarding the clearance of any sound recording or performance included within the AP Television News service (iii) they have editorial responsibility for the use of all and any content included within the AP Television News service and for libel, privacy, compliance and third party rights applicable to their Territory. APTN APEX 02-12-10 1348EST ------------------- END -- OF -- ITEM ------------------- AP-APTN-1830: ++Haiti Ceremony 2 Friday, 12 February 2010 STORY:++Haiti Ceremony 2- NEW Religious ceremonies a month after earthquake, Preval LENGTH: 02:51 FIRST RUN: 1830 RESTRICTIONS: AP Clients Only TYPE: Natsot SOURCE: AP TELEVISION STORY NUMBER: 636883 DATELINE: Port-au-Prince, 12 Feb 2010 LENGTH: 02:51 AP TELEVISION - AP CLIENTS ONLY SHOTLIST 1. Wide exterior of Notre Dame University Nurses school 2. Edmond Mulet, UN Special Representative in Haiti, arriving at service 3. Various of Haitian President Rene Preval arriving and greeting officials 4. Various of stage as ceremony starts with clerics from the Haitian main religions, Catholics, Evangelicals and Voodoo 5. Various of officials at ceremony with President Preval sitting next to Prime Minister Bellerive 6. Mid of crowd at ceremony 7. Mid of church leaders on stage 8. Wide pan of crowd at ceremony in front of National Palace 9. Mid of people with raised arms 10. Mid of men carrying woman overcome with emotion out of crowd 11. Mid of people watching during sermon 12. Close up of woman's face 13. Various of waving arms 14. Various of church leaders on stage singing 15. Mid of church leaders on stage singing 16. Various of crowd singing along and waving arms STORYLINE: Thousands of Haitians prayed on Friday in a national day of mourning, one month after a magnitude-7.0 earthquake killed more than 200,000 and left the Caribbean country struggling for survival. Leaders of Haiti's two official religions - a Catholic bishop and the head of the Voodoo priests, both robed in white - joined ministers from Protestant denominations for a prayer service near the shattered National Palace. Parishioners filled churches in Port-au-Prince's Petionville suburb and set up loudspeakers so those in the streets could follow. Others stood on debris that used to be a Catholic Church and an evangelical church to remember victims hurriedly and anonymously buried in mass graves outside the devastated capital, Port-au-Prince. Hundreds of people gathered. Men wore black armbands of mourning, girls white dresses. Among them were earthquake amputees in wheelchairs, casts and on crutches. President Rene Preval wept during the service, his wife trying to console him. "The pain is too heavy. Words cannot explain it," Preval said. The president later asked people to support the government, though he did not refer to the many small demonstrations this week demanding that he resign. People raised their hands to the heavens as they sang. Those killed in the 12 January quake included church leaders, missionaries and children studying at faith-based schools. The Roman Catholic Archbishop of Port-au-Prince, Joseph Serge Miot, was among those who perished. Some Haitians have been asking if God had abandoned their country, the world's first black republic, founded in 1804 following a slave rebellion. After the quake, some Voodoo followers have converted to Christianity, some enticed by steady aid flows through evangelical missions, others out of a fear of God. Since the quake, Scientologists, Mormons, Baptists, Catholics, Jehovah's Witnesses and other missionaries have flocked to Haiti in droves, feeding the homeless, treating the injured and preaching the Gospel in squalid camps where some one (m) million people now live. In many of them, trucks with loudspeakers blast evangelical music while missionaries talk to families under tarps. The US Agency for International Development channels hundreds of (m) millions of dollars in overseas aid each year through faith-based groups, though there is no definitive tally of how much of the aid for Haiti comes through Christian groups. Clients are reminded: (i) to check the terms of their licence agreements for use of content outside news programming and that further advice and assistance can be obtained from the AP Archive on: Tel +44 (0) 20 7482 7482 Email: infoaparchive.com (ii) they should check with the applicable collecting society in their Territory regarding the clearance of any sound recording or performance included within the AP Television News service (iii) they have editorial responsibility for the use of all and any content included within the AP Television News service and for libel, privacy, compliance and third party rights applicable to their Territory. APTN APEX 02-12-10 1350EST ------------------- END -- OF -- ITEM ------------------- AP-APTN-1830: +Afghan Offensive Friday, 12 February 2010 STORY:+Afghan Offensive- WRAP Elders want quick offensive; preps for assault; conflict over deaths LENGTH: 04:29 FIRST RUN: 1830 RESTRICTIONS: AP Clients Only TYPE: Eng/Pashto/Nat SOURCE: AP TELEVISION/NATO TV STORY NUMBER: 636880 DATELINE: Various, 10 & 12 Feb 2010 LENGTH: 04:29 ++CLIENTS NOTE: IGNORE EDIT SENT EARLIER AND REPLACE WITH THIS ONE WHICH HAS HAD AUDIO AND/OR VIDEO LEVELS CORRECTED++ ++CLIENTS PLEASE NOTE: SHOTS 21 - 24 WERE FILMED BY A CAMERAMAN EMBEDDED WITH US AND AFGHAN FORCES++ AP TELEVISION NEWS - AP CLIENTS ONLY NATO TV - AP CLIENTS ONLY SHOTLIST: ++NEW (FIRST RUN 1830 NORTH AMERICA PRIME NEWS) NATO TV - AP CLIENTS ONLY Exact location unknown, Helmand Province - 10 February 2010 1. Various of British, Afghan and Estonian troops 2. SOUNDBITE: (English) Lieutenant Colonel Nick Lock, Commander - Royal Welsh Battle Group: "And this mission is a historic mission. We are really at a point, a tipping point in the future of the campaign." 3. Various of soldiers listening 4. SOUNDBITE: (English) Lieutenant Colonel Nick Lock, Commander - Royal Welsh Battle Group: "Now we're going into an area which has been under Taliban control for quite some time. And the people are heavily intimidated in that area. So it will take time for them to grow in confidence and to engage with us and our Afghan partners. But we need to get to grips with the population, to get them to understand that we are here to stay this time. And, that we are going to provide the security and infrastructure that is required to ensure that they can get on and live their lives in peace as they've wanted to do for quite some time." 5. Wide view of soldiers listening 6. SOUNDBITE: (English) Lieutenant Colonel Nick Lock, Commander - Royal Welsh Battle Group: "I'm sure we'll have a huge success on this operation. Make sure we're partnering with our Afghan colleagues and we'll get this job done and done to the best of our abilities." 7. Wide of soldiers listening (FIRST RUN 1430 EUROPE PRIME NEWS) AP TELEVISION NEWS - AP CLIENTS ONLY Lashkar Gah, Helmand province - 12 February 2010 8. Wide of Lashkar Gah 9. Various of Afghan police 10. Wide of police searching cars arriving from Marjah 11. Various of displaced people from Marjah on trucks and cars 12. Close up of family on the back of truck 13. SOUNDBITE: (Pashto) Qari Mohammad Nabi, Marjah resident "They (Taliban) don't allow families to leave. Families can only leave the village when they are not seen while leaving." 14. Mid of police stopping a mini-bus coming from Marjah 15. SOUNDBITE: (Pashto) Bibi Gull, Marjah resident "We were not allowed to come here. We haven't brought any of our belongings. We just tried to take ourselves out of there. Three of my sons are still in the village and the other three have come with me." 16. Haji Mohammad Anwar, Chief of Helmand provincial council, 17. SOUNDBITE: (Pashto) Haji Mohammad Anwar, Chief of Helmand provincial council "The governor asked the people, with the approval of the interior minister, to establish a council from the religious elders to get in touch with the Taliban, in order to guarantee the lives of those who want to lay down their weapons and don't want to fight." 18. Mid of police searching truck 19. Mid of policeman 20. Wide of vehicles carrying refugees from Marjah and surrounding villages (FIRST RUN 1130 NEWS UPDATE) AP TELEVISION NEWS - AP CLIENTS ONLY Outskirts of Marjah, Helmand province - 12 February 2010 21. Cut away of hands cleaning gun 22. Mid shot of soldier cleaning gun 23. SOUNDBITE: (English) Lieutenant Colonel Brian Christmas, Battalion Commander of 3rd Battalion, 6th Marines "Well we're here to introduce GIRoA (Government of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan) and NA (National Army) forces to Marjah in order to rid the Taliban as well as to bring government to Marjah, like schools, hospitals, security and again to get rid of the Taliban." 24. SOUNDBITE: (English) Captain Josh Winfrey, Lima Company Commander of 3rd Battalion, 6th Marines "A lot of IED's (Improvised Explosive Device) - that's the primary threat. Varying reports on what the enemy actually looks like within the district but I'm expecting some fairly significant resistance, especially within the first few days that we're go in." (FIRST RUN 1330 NEWS UPDATE) AP TELEVISION NEWS - AP CLIENTS ONLY Gardez, Paktia province - 12 February 2010 25. Wide of the house where two men and three women were found dead 26. Mid of Afghan police and US soldiers at entrance to house 27. Wide of the house 28. US soldiers inside the room taking photographs of bodies 29. Blood stain on the ground 30. Pair of lady's shoes 31. US soldiers in the room tilt down to bodies 32. Tilt up from blood stain on ground to Afghan policeman's face 33. Various of relatives crying 34. Various of villagers chanting against the US and the Afghan government STORYLINE Thousands of Afghan soldiers and police are to join NATO troops in an upcoming offensive in southern Afghanistan, playing their biggest role in any joint operation of the nine year Afghan war. The pending attack on the Taliban-held town of Marjah in Helmand province will be a crucial test for the NATO strategy of transferring more responsibility to the Afghans so foreign troops can go home. Exact numbers of NATO to Afghan troops earmarked for the assault - named "Operation Moshtarak" ("Operation Together" when translated from the Dari language) - have not been disclosed for security reasons but are expected to far exceed the ten-to-one ratio of Americans to Afghans during the major offensive in Helmand province last summer. Earlier in the week, Lieutenant Colonel Nick Lock of the Royal Welsh Battle Group spoke to troops preparing for battle. He urged them to make sure they partnered up and worked well with Afghan troops in dealing with the civilian population. "So it will take time for them to grow in confidence and to engage with us and our Afghan partners. But we need to get to grips with the population, to get them to understand that we are here to stay this time," he said. On Friday, roads leading out of the besieged town 380 miles (610 kilometres) southwest of Kabul were jammed as hundreds of civilians defied militant orders and fled the area ahead of the anticipated US-Afghan assault. Many said they had to leave quickly and secretly to avoid recrimination from Taliban commanders. US commanders have not revealed when the main attack will take place but first signalled their intention to attack several weeks ago, hoping civilians would seek shelter. Those who made it to the provincial capital Lashkar Gah, 20 miles (30 kilometres) to the northeast, said they had fled without their belongings and that members of family had been left behind. "We were not allowed to come here. We haven't brought any of our belongings; we just tried to get ourselves out," said Bibi Gul, an elderly woman who arrived with three of her sons. She left three more sons behind in Marjah. Police searched the vehicles as they arrived for any signs of militants. Provincial spokesman Daoud Ahmadi said about 450 families - an estimated 2,700 people - had already sought refuge in Lashkar Gah and that local authorities were preparing to shelter up to seven thousand families over the coming days. Marjah is a major supply base for the Taliban insurgents and a centre of their opium-poppy business. Up to 1,000 militants are believed to be holed up there. As the NATO and Afghan forces move in, the biggest danger is likely to be the number of land mines and bombs hidden in the roads and surrounding fields. The US military has been quoted as describing the area as possibly the largest minefield that NATO has ever faced. "A lot of IEDs (Improvised Explosive Devices) - that's the primary threat," said Captain Josh Winfrey, Lima Company Commander of 3rd Battalion, 6th Marines. A Taliban spokesman - Mohammed Yusuf - has dismissed the significance of Marjah, describing the planned attack as "more propaganda than military necessity." He has at the same time been quoted by the SITE Intelligence Group which monitors militant Internet traffic as saying the insurgents would strike back with explosives and hit-and-run tactics. Operation Moshtarak may prove to be decisive not least because of its potential influence on relations between the foreign military and civilian populations. Civilian deaths during military operations are a hot-button issue in Afghanistan, and US commanders have issued strict orders to limit the use of force when civilians are at risk. Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai has also called on NATO to stop night raids into private homes because they offend Afghan culture and help turn people away from the government and its allies. According to NATO, on Thursday a joint Afghan-NATO force killed several insurgents during a raid on a compound in Paktia province and discovered the bodies of two men and two bound and gagged women. The killings have sparked fierce public outcry as stricken relatives blame US soldiers for the deaths. In a statement, NATO forces said the operation took place on Thursday night in the Gardez district after the joint force received reports of militant activity at a compound near the village of Khatabeh. The statement also said several insurgents died in the ensuing fire fight. Also, that "a large number of men, women, and children" exited the compound and were detained by the joint force. But a man who identified himself as Hamidullah accused US forces of killing innocent victims, saying he had been in the home at the time of the incident, as some 20 people gathered to celebrate the birth of a son. He said a group of men he described as US special forces surrounded the compound and gunned down one man when he came out into the courtyard to ask why. Then they killed a second man, Hamidullah said. The rest of the group were forced out into the yard, made to kneel and had their hands bound behind their back, he said, breaking off crying without giving any further details. Afghan officials confirmed on Friday they were investigating the deaths in a home near the provincial capital of Gardez. It is understood that one of the men who was killed worked for the police, while the other worked for the attorney general's office. The Interior Ministry sent a team on Friday to Paktia to investigate the incident, indicating the high level of concern over new allegations of civilian casualties. Clients are reminded: (i) to check the terms of their licence agreements for use of content outside news programming and that further advice and assistance can be obtained from the AP Archive on: Tel +44 (0) 20 7482 7482 Email: infoaparchive.com (ii) they should check with the applicable collecting society in their Territory regarding the clearance of any sound recording or performance included within the AP Television News service (iii) they have editorial responsibility for the use of all and any content included within the AP Television News service and for libel, privacy, compliance and third party rights applicable to their Territory. APTN APEX 02-12-10 1429EST ------------------- END -- OF -- ITEM ------------------- AP-APTN-1830: NKorea UN Friday, 12 February 2010 STORY:NKorea UN- REPLAY UN envoy leaves NKorea after bid to persuade NKor to resume talks LENGTH: 02:48 FIRST RUN: 0930 RESTRICTIONS: APTN Clients Only/Pt No Access NKorea TYPE: Mandarin/Natsot SOURCE: APTN/KRT STORY NUMBER: 636806 DATELINE: Pyongyang - 12 Feb 2010 LENGTH: 02:48 KRT - No Access North Korea APTN - APTN Clients Only SHOTLIST: KRT - No Access North Korea Pyongyang - 12 February 2010 1. Wide of library building 2. Mid of Under Secretary General to the UN, B. Lynn Pascoe and officials listening to explanation of library 3. Various of Pascoe and officials looking at a group of students working with computers 4. Wide pan of students working with computers 5. Mid of Pascoe listening to explanations 6. Pascoe in library looking at books, pan to bookshelves APTN - APTN Clients Only Pyongyang - 12 February 2010 7. Wide of Pyongyang Maternity Hospital 8. Pascoe arriving, getting out of car and greeting officials from hospital 9. Wide of room inside hospital 10. Wide of Pascoe and UN delegation listening to introduction of hospital 11. Close up of baby 12. Pascoe with hospital officials and delegation 13. Wide of mothers sitting on beds with babies 14. Mid of Pascoe talking to mothers, pan to mothers 15. Wide of Pascoe getting out of car at Pyongyang airport, speaking to reporter 16. SOUNDBITE: (Mandarin) B. Lynn Pascoe, Under Secretary General to the UN: "Very satisfied. We have discussed a lots of issues." 17. UN delegation walking down the stairs of airport terminal 18. Pascoe shaking hands with North Korean officials 19. Pascoe and his party getting on airport bus 10. North Korean officials watching Pascoe departing 21. Bus driving towards plane STORYLINE: UN Special Envoy B. Lynn Pascoe concluded a four-day trip to North Korea Friday that may yet precede an historic visit by a top North Korean nuclear envoy to the US next month. Pascoe, the highest-ranking UN diplomat to visit North Korea since 2004, met with several senior government officials during his visit, including North Korea's No. 2, to convey a message from the UN Secretary General Bank Ki-Moon to leader Kim Jong Il. Prior to his departure on Friday, he was also taken on a tour of Pyongyang's Maternity Hospital. Later, he told reporters at Pyongyang airport he was "very satisfied" with the talks that had taken place. According to South Korea's Yonhap news agency, reported from Beijing, a top North Korean nuclear envoy is now set to visit the US next month for rare bilateral talks. Diplomats are pushing to revive negotiations on ending Pyongyang's nuclear program. The report cited an unidentified source and suggested North Korea's Kim Kye Gwan would travel to Washington in March. A meeting between the North Korean envoy and US officials would be a strong sign that the push to get the disarmament talks back on track was gaining traction. It would also confirm a warming in relations between the US and North Korea. North Korea, believed to have enough weaponised plutonium for at least half a dozen atomic bombs, walked away from disarmament-for-aid negotiations last year during a standoff over its nuclear and missile programs. After tightened sanctions and financial isolation, the impoverished nation has reached out to Washington, Seoul and Beijing in recent months. North Korea wants sanctions eased and a peace treaty formally ending the 1950-53 Korean War if it returns to the talks. Clients are reminded: (i) to check the terms of their licence agreements for use of content outside news programming and that further advice and assistance can be obtained from the AP Archive on: Tel +44 (0) 20 7482 7482 Email: infoaparchive.com (ii) they should check with the applicable collecting society in their Territory regarding the clearance of any sound recording or performance included within the AP Television News service (iii) they have editorial responsibility for the use of all and any content included within the AP Television News service and for libel, privacy, compliance and third party rights applicable to their Territory. APTN APEX 02-12-10 1359EST ------------------- END -- OF -- ITEM ------------------- AP-APTN-1830: China UN NKorea Friday, 12 February 2010 STORY:China UN NKorea- REPLAY UN envoy's presser following four-day visit to North Korea LENGTH: 01:16 FIRST RUN: 1430 RESTRICTIONS: AP Clients Only TYPE: English/Nat SOURCE: AP TELEVISION STORY NUMBER: 636861 DATELINE: Beijing - 12 Feb 2010 LENGTH: 01:16 AP TELEVISION - AP CLIENTS ONLY SHOTLIST: 1. Wide interior shot of press conference 2. SOUNDBITE (English) Lynn Pascoe, UN Special Envoy: "Well, the attitude right now as I said was that they certainly were not happy with the sanctions, and they were certainly not eager to - not ruling out - but not eager to return to the six-party talks, so we'll see where that comes." 3. Wide cutaway media 4. SOUNDBITE (English) Lynn Pascoe, UN Special Envoy: "I don't really want to get into the middle of negotiating the details. We will tell the other members of the six-party talks what we heard and then we will stay out, unless anybody asks us to be involved, and as haven't been asked to be involved yet." 5. Med cutaway media 6. SOUNDBITE (English) Lynn Pascoe, UN Special Envoy: "It was about a forth of what we would estimate a really good programme should be, at the point that takes mostly humanitarian issues. There is some development but not much. It's mostly humanitarian. And we need the programme to be going up, not down, to help the kids, that's all." 7. Wide pull out shot of end of press conference STORYLINE: A news report said a top North Korean nuclear envoy would visit the United States for rare bilateral talks next month, as diplomats pushed to revive negotiations on ending Pyongyang's nuclear programme. South Korea's Yonhap news agency, citing an unidentified source, reported Friday that plans call for North Korea's Kim Kye Gwan to travel to the US in March. UN political chief, Lynn Pascoe, said after concluding a four-day trip to North Korea on Friday that he was unaware of plans for Kim to travel to the US. Pascoe, the highest-ranking UN diplomat to visit North Korea since 2004, said he met North Korea's president and foreign minister, but the North Korean side did not seem prepared to immediately return to the international disarmament talks. "Well, the attitude right now as I said was that they certainly were not happy with the sanctions, and they were certainly not eager to - not ruling out - but not eager to return to the six-party talks, so we'll see where that comes," Pascoe said. Clients are reminded: (i) to check the terms of their licence agreements for use of content outside news programming and that further advice and assistance can be obtained from the AP Archive on: Tel +44 (0) 20 7482 7482 Email: infoaparchive.com (ii) they should check with the applicable collecting society in their Territory regarding the clearance of any sound recording or performance included within the AP Television News service (iii) they have editorial responsibility for the use of all and any content included within the AP Television News service and for libel, privacy, compliance and third party rights applicable to their Territory. APTN APEX 02-12-10 1351EST ------------------- END -- OF -- ITEM ------------------- AP-APTN-1830: Pakistan Blast Amath Friday, 12 February 2010 STORY:Pakistan Blast Amath- REPLAY Aftermath of suicide bombs, at least 15 dead, damage, coffins LENGTH: 00:46 FIRST RUN: 1130 RESTRICTIONS: AP Clients Only TYPE: Urdu/Natsot SOURCE: AP TELEVISION STORY NUMBER: 636817 DATELINE: Bannu - 12 Feb 2010 LENGTH: 00:46 AP TELEVISION - AP CLIENTS ONLY SHOTLIST: 1. Wide, pan right of scene of suicide attacks, showing police officers and damaged buildings 2. Tracking shot of coffins being carried 3. Mid shot of coffins laid out, draped in Pakistani flags 4. Wide of people praying in front of coffins 5. SOUNDBITE: (Urdu) Ameer Haider Khan Hoti, Chief Minister for Northwest Frontier Province (NWFP) "There is a price to pay for war, and we have already paid this price, and we have to pay this price again in the future. Yesterday's attack on the police barracks was another instance where we have paid the ultimate price." 6. Wide of people praying in front of coffins STORYLINE: Fifteen people are reported dead, including at least nine policemen, after a double suicide bombing in the northwest Pakistan town of Bannu on Thursday. Thirty people were also wounded in the attacks, including Bannu's police chief, according to hospital officials. Officials say the second blast went off as rescuers responded to the first blast, a militant tactic rarely seen before in Pakistan. On Friday, police officers stood guard at the scene of the attack, in front of a row of badly damaged buildings. Close by, funerals were held for several of the officers killed. A large crowd gathered around their flag-draped coffins and offered prayers. The Chief Minister for Pakistan's northwest Frontier Province (NWFP) attended the funerals, saying that the bomb victims were "the price to pay" for war with militants. Militants have carried out numerous attacks on security forces over the past several years to undermine the public's confidence in the already-weak state. No group immediately claimed responsibility for Thursday's blasts, which were carried out by attackers on foot outside a gate to the police complex, but suspicion is likely to fall on the Pakistani Taliban. The city of Bannu lies just outside North Waziristan, a major militant stronghold. There is growing certainty that the militant group's top commander, Hakimullah Mehsud, died from wounds sustained in a US missile strike in mid-January. The Taliban have denied he is dead, but so far have failed to offer proof that he is alive. A potential succession struggle in the wake of Mehsud's death could temporarily weaken the Pakistani Taliban but is unlikely to cripple its ability to carry out deadly attacks. The Pakistani military has pursued the group but many of its militants are believed to have fled to North Waziristan and other areas in the tribal belt or just outside it. The US has pushed Pakistan to do what it can to root out militants on its soil who threaten Pakistan's own stability and American and NATO troops across the border in Afghanistan. Clients are reminded: (i) to check the terms of their licence agreements for use of content outside news programming and that further advice and assistance can be obtained from the AP Archive on: Tel +44 (0) 20 7482 7482 Email: infoaparchive.com (ii) they should check with the applicable collecting society in their Territory regarding the clearance of any sound recording or performance included within the AP Television News service (iii) they have editorial responsibility for the use of all and any content included within the AP Television News service and for libel, privacy, compliance and third party rights applicable to their Territory. APTN APEX 02-12-10 1352EST ------------------- END -- OF -- ITEM ------------------- AP-APTN-1830: ++Canada Oly Torch Friday, 12 February 2010 STORY:++Canada Oly Torch- NEW Schwarzenegger and Coe carry Olympic torch in Vancouver LENGTH: 02:02 FIRST RUN: 1830 RESTRICTIONS: AP Clients Only TYPE: English/Natsound SOURCE: AP TELEVISION STORY NUMBER: 636877 DATELINE: Vancouver, 12 Feb 2010 LENGTH: 02:02 AP TELEVISION - AP CLIENTS ONLY SHOTLIST 1. Wide of crowd at Vancouver's Stanley park 2. Illuminated Olympic rings on barge in harbour 3. California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger arriving, mobbed by fans and cameras 4. Placard reading (English) 'The Torchinator' 5. Schwarzenegger carrying torch through crowd 6. Police escort 7. Schwarzenegger at end of his run 8. Fans watching 9. Schwarznegger posing for photos 10. Schwarzenegger walking to car, waving 11. Sebastian Coe, London 2012 chairman with torch 12. SOUNDBITE (English) Sebastian Coe, Chairman, London 2012: "Great honour and it's a great thrill, but a big responsibility too, and a lot of attention, but these guys have done a fantastic job and it's just great to be here." 13. Wide of torch run along sea wall STORYLINE: Fans have mobbed California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger as he carried the Olympic torch on the final day of the Vancouver Winter Games torch relay. Hundreds turned out at dawn to cheer Schwarzenegger as he carried the torch through part of Vancouver's waterfront Stanley Park. The choice of Schwarzenegger to carry the torch sparked some controversy, as he has admitted past steroid use. He handed the torch to the chairman of the London 2012 summer Olympic Games, Sebastian Coe. "It's a great thrill, but a big responsibility too, and a lot of attention, but these guys have done a fantastic job and it's just great to be here," Coe said. Later on, about 150 protesters gathered in the Downtown Eastside area amid hundreds of Olympic fans waiting for a glimpse of the flame. A dozen mounted police stopped the placard-carrying protesters from surging ahead and confronting the relay. The convoy quickly changed the route and continued. This is the 106th and final day of the cross-Canada relay. Clients are reminded: (i) to check the terms of their licence agreements for use of content outside news programming and that further advice and assistance can be obtained from the AP Archive on: Tel +44 (0) 20 7482 7482 Email: infoaparchive.com (ii) they should check with the applicable collecting society in their Territory regarding the clearance of any sound recording or performance included within the AP Television News service (iii) they have editorial responsibility for the use of all and any content included within the AP Television News service and for libel, privacy, compliance and third party rights applicable to their Territory. APTN APEX 02-12-10 1410EST ------------------- END -- OF -- ITEM ------------------- AP-APTN-1830: UK Canada Oly Friday, 12 February 2010 STORY:UK Canada Oly- REPLAY London celebrates start of Winter Olympics in Vancouver LENGTH: 01:36 FIRST RUN: 1230 RESTRICTIONS: AP clients only TYPE: English/Nat SOURCE: AP TELEVISION STORY NUMBER: 636818 DATELINE: London, 12 Feb 2010 LENGTH: 01:36 AP TELEVISION - AP CLIENTS ONLY SHOTLIST: 1. Wide of Trafalgar Square with Olympic ice sculpture 2. Various of ice sculpture 8. Close up of Canadian flag 3. Canadian High Commissioner Jim Wright with London Mayor Boris Johnson 4. Wright and Johnson pose with ice hockey sticks 5. UPSOUND: (English) Jim Wright, Canadian High Commissioner: "Good luck Vancouver!" 6. SOUNDBITE (English) Boris Johnson, London Mayor: "This is London to Canadians everywhere. Have a fantastic winter games and good luck Vancouver!" 7. Close up of Johnson wearing winter Olympic gloves 8. Various of Wright and Johnson 9. Wide of Canadian High Commission building with sculpture in foreground 10. SOUNDBITE (English) Jim Wright, Canadian High Commissioner: "I think it's tremendously important. After Canada hosts in 2010, it's London in 2012, so we've been working very closely with the London organisers, including the Mayor's office, to ensure that the Canadian experience at Vancouver and Whistler is passed onto the people of London. It's a great opportunity to share some legacy." 11. Wide of square, tilt down from Nelson's Column STORYLINE: London marked the start of the Winter Olympics in Vancouver with celebrations in Trafalgar Square on Friday. Canadian High Commissioner (ambassador) Jim Wright joined London Mayor Boris Johnson to unveil an ice sculpture of the five Olympic rings. The four-metre sculpture is part of a package of events including giant screens from which Londoners will be able to view the opening stages of the Winter Olympics. London hosts the Summer Olympics in 2012. Wright said Canada was working closely with London to ensure that its experience of the Winter Games would be passed onto the London Olympic organisers. Clients are reminded: (i) to check the terms of their licence agreements for use of content outside news programming and that further advice and assistance can be obtained from the AP Archive on: Tel +44 (0) 20 7482 7482 Email: infoaparchive.com (ii) they should check with the applicable collecting society in their Territory regarding the clearance of any sound recording or performance included within the AP Television News service (iii) they have editorial responsibility for the use of all and any content included within the AP Television News service and for libel, privacy, compliance and third party rights applicable to their Territory. APTN APEX 02-12-10 1354EST ------------------- END -- OF -- ITEM ------------------- AP-APTN-1830: US UK McQueen 2 Friday, 12 February 2010 STORY:US UK McQueen 2- WRAP Models, designers, celebrities pay tribute to British designer LENGTH: 03:38 FIRST RUN: 1530 RESTRICTIONS: AP Clients Only TYPE: English/Natsound SOURCE: AP TELEVISION STORY NUMBER: 636859 DATELINE: Various - 11/12 Feb 2010/File LENGTH: 03:38 AP TELEVISION - AP CLIENTS ONLY SHOTLIST: (FIRST RUN 1130 NEWS UPDATE, 12 FEBRUARY 2010) New York, US - 11 February 2010 1. Pan from road to venue for New York Fashion Week 2. Close up of model Heidi Klum speaking to reporters 3. SOUNDBITE (English) Heidi Klum, Model, TV personality: "It's really, it's very unfortunate, I mean what a truly amazing person and so out there and so full of ideas, how to dress us all, it's very, very sad." 4. Tilt up of actress Kristin Chenoweth twirls on carpet 5. SOUNDBITE (English) Kristin Chenoweth, Actress: "I think it's a gentle reminder for all of us that even when we have our own loss in our life, that we can continue and I think he must have been in a spot where he felt he couldn't and that makes me sad because the world has lost this amazing talent. But, I just, my heart goes out to his family." 6. Zoom out from designer and TV personality Kimora Lee Simons speaking to reporters 7. SOUNDBITE (English) Kimora Lee Simons, designer and TV personality: "He is a great, a wonderful, original talent, a really creative person. He does things that I will only dream to do one day." (FIRST RUN 1130 NEWS UPDATE, 12 FEBRUARY 2010) London, UK - 11 February 2010 8. Wide of cinema 9. Mid of actor Ashton Kutcher 10. SOUNDBITE (English) Ashton Kutcher, Actor: "It's a huge loss for the fashion industry as a whole and my heart goes out to his friends and colleagues, it's tough. I didn't know him personally. It's a tough loss for the industry " 11. SOUNDBITE (English) Jessica Alba, Actress: "A huge fan, he's amazing and it's, it's very, very sad. And I feel for his family." 12. Wide of Kutcher on red carpet (FIRST RUN 1130 NEWS UPDATE, 12 FEBRUARY 2010) New York, US - 11 February 2010 13. SOUNDBITE (English) Nadia Masri, Editor-in-Chief, fashionvisionboardgirl.com: "Also, I know March 7, it's close, about a month away from marking the anniversary of the suicide of Isabella Blow and that's basically the woman that took him from his graduate show and basically plucked him out and said this is gonna be the next big designer." ++NEW (FIRST RUN 1530 NEWS UPDATE, 12 FEBRUARY 2010) London, UK - 12 February 2010 14. Wide tilt down exterior of home of Alexander McQueen 15. Various of doorway with floral tributes 16. Tilt down exterior Alexander McQueen store in Old Bond Street 17. Close up of various floral tributes inside shop 18. Various exterior Selfridges department store 19. Various of interior and signs for McQueen concession at Selfridges 20. Various of McQueen designs on sale in store 21. SOUNDBITE (English) Anne Pitcher, Buying and Merchandising Director and Selfridges: "He won't disappear, he'll be with us forever. And you know the reaction we've seen today and yesterday from our customers who want to buy a little piece of McQueen I think is testament to exactly that, a memory or a momento of his ability and his creativity." ++NEW (FIRST RUN 1530 NEWS UPDATE, 12 FEBRUARY 2010) FILE: Paris, January 16 2000 22. Various of Givenchy catwalk show 23. Alexander McQueen takes bow STORYLINE: Stars at New York Fashion Week and celebrities in London have paid tribute to British fashion designer Alexander McQueen who was found dead at his home on Thursday. McQueen's death came days after he posted anguished online remarks about the death of his mother. He was 40. The circumstances pointed to a possible suicide, but there was no confirmation from police or McQueen's publicists. Authorities said the death was not suspicious, apparently ruling out foul play. They did not indicate how McQueen was discovered. McQueen's mother died on February 2. Some fashion experts speculated that his mood may have also been clouded by pressure to outdo himself again next month at his catwalk show in Paris. Nadia Masri, Editor-in-Chief of fashionvisionboardgirl.com, said he a close relationship with his mother, but added that the anniversary of the death of a close friend Isabella Blow was approaching. Masri said Blow took McQueen "from his graduate show and basically plucked him out and said this is gonna be the next big designer." News of his death broke at the start of New York Fashion Week and sent shock waves through the Bryant Park tents. A presentation of McQueen's secondary label, McQ, had been scheduled for later on Thursday, but it was quickly cancelled. Model Heidi Klum called McQueen "a truly amazing person," adding that his death was, "very, very sad." Designer Pamella Roland agreed, saying that he was, "going to be very, very missed." Another designer, Kimora Simmons, said the fashion industry had lost a true original. McQueen helped spark a renaissance in London fashion, helping to revive it after the long-dormant period that followed the punk explosion in the 1970s. He was also responsible for one of history's most famous "wardrobe malfunctions." He designed Janet Jackson's Super Bowl outfit, which fell open while she was singing, revealing one of her breasts. In the usually glad-handing fashion world, McQueen was known as a private man who shunned the limelight. He turned down most interview requests and did not cultivate a cult of personality or try do develop an air of mystery about his work. McQueen was the youngest of six children born to a taxi driver and a teacher. He received his early fashion training at the Central St. Martin's College of Art and Design, long recognised for its fashion-forward approach and encouragement of Britain's talented young designers. He learned the finer points of traditional men's tailoring at two famous, conservative Savile Row houses: Anderson and Sheppard, and Gieves and Hawkes. After his Savile Row stint, McQueen started to develop his trademark, more theatrical designs, working with several other brands before first starting his own label in 1992. He quickly earned a reputation for innovation. The company he founded was purchased by the Gucci Group, and he retained creative control of his own brand. There were plans for stores in Paris, Milan and London, as well as Manhattan and San Francisco. His runway shows were always a highlight during the Paris ready-to-wear fashion week. One of his previous collections included a show built around the concept of recycling, with models donning extravagant headwear made out of trash. His last collection, shown in October in Paris, featured elaborate and highly structured cocktail dresses. Critics raved. He was named British Fashion Designer of the Year four times, and was recognised by Queen Elizabeth II in 2003, when she made him a Commander of the British Empire for his fashion leadership. Meanwhile, McQueen's London store closed its doors out of respect for the iconic fashion designer and floral tributes were left outside his store on Old Bond Street and the shop's flag was flying at half mast. However, McQueen's creations are still being sold in U.K. department store Selfridges. Anne Pitcher, Buying and Merchandising Director of Selfridges, said McQueen's fans have rushed to buy his designs. "You know the reaction we've seen today and yesterday from our customers who want to buy a little piece of McQueen I think is testament to exactly that, a memory or a momento of his memorability and his creativity," she said. Clients are reminded: (i) to check the terms of their licence agreements for use of content outside news programming and that further advice and assistance can be obtained from the AP Archive on: Tel +44 (0) 20 7482 7482 Email: infoaparchive.com (ii) they should check with the applicable collecting society in their Territory regarding the clearance of any sound recording or performance included within the AP Television News service (iii) they have editorial responsibility for the use of all and any content included within the AP Television News service and for libel, privacy, compliance and third party rights applicable to their Territory. APTN APEX 02-12-10 1355EST ------------------- END -- OF -- ITEM ------------------- AP-APTN-1830: ++Brazil Carnival Friday, 12 February 2010 STORY:++Brazil Carnival- REPLAY Official opening of Rio carnival, mayor hands key to King Momo LENGTH: 01:36 FIRST RUN: 1630 RESTRICTIONS: AP Clients Only TYPE: Portuguese/Nat SOURCE: AP TELEVISION STORY NUMBER: 636879 DATELINE: Rio de Janeiro - 12 Feb 2010 LENGTH: 01:36 SHOTLIST: 1. Wide of Rio de Janeiro City Palace 2. Mid of band playing 3. Rio de Janeiro Mayor Eduardo Paes (in centre holding plaques) with King Momo (whose real name is Milton Rodrigues), Carnival Queen and his Princesses 4. King Momo with Paes 5. Cutaway of media 6. Paes handing symbolic key to King Momo 7. SOUNDBITE: (Portuguese) Milton Rodrigues, Rio de Janeiro's King Momo "I declare that, at this moment, carnival in Rio de Janeiro is officially open. Our carnival is a window to the world, I am very proud to be here. Let's enjoy this carnival safely and thank God for the fact that we are here. Long live Rio de Janeiro!" 8. Mid of Salgueiro samba school drummers 9. Tilt up of Carnival Queen dancing 10. Paes singing Salgueiro samba 11. SOUNDBITE: (Portuguese) Eduardo Paes, Rio de Janeiro Mayor: "It is the joy of the spontaneous party of the carioca (Rio de Janeiro residents). This city is special, and I will be enjoying all of the festivities on the Avenue (referring to Sambadrome) until Ash Wednesday." 12. Tilt up of princesses dancing 13. Wide of Paes with carnival gathering STORYLINE: Rio de Janeiro's carnival was officially declared open on Friday when city mayor Eduardo Paes handed a symbolic key to the city over to this year's Carnival King Momo. The ceremony at City Palace marked the King's brief reign over Rio which traditionally lasts until Ash Wednesday - 17 February. While Paes says he will sing and dance along with the crowds he is also backing a zero tolerance campaign this year that has challenged Rio's everything-goes reputation. The campaign Paes calls "shock of order" will clamp down hard on people caught using roadside gutters as toilets - always tolerated in the past. Beach football is now only permitted after 5 pm (1900 GMT), while Help Disco - Rio's world-famous waterfront pickup club for legal prostitutes - has been closed to make way for a museum dedicated to Brazilian music, film and photography. Violence is still the city's biggest security concern, with at least seven suspected drug traffickers and a policeman killed on Thursday in a shootout in a slum in northern Rio. King Momo - whose real name is Milton Rodrigues - said on Friday that he was hoping for a peaceful, safe and enjoyable week-long party. Clients are reminded: (i) to check the terms of their licence agreements for use of content outside news programming and that further advice and assistance can be obtained from the AP Archive on: Tel +44 (0) 20 7482 7482 Email: infoaparchive.com (ii) they should check with the applicable collecting society in their Territory regarding the clearance of any sound recording or performance included within the AP Television News service (iii) they have editorial responsibility for the use of all and any content included within the AP Television News service and for libel, privacy, compliance and third party rights applicable to their Territory. APTN APEX 02-12-10 1357EST ------------------- END -- OF -- ITEM -------------------

AP-APTN-1830 North America Prime News -Final Sunday, 2 May 2010 North America Prime News US Times Sq 6 03:14 PART NO ACCESS NAMERICA/INT REPLAY AP pix as Taliban claims responsibility; intv with hot dog vendor; Napolitano ++Internet Pakistan Taliban 01:18 See Script NEW +GRAPHIC+ Purported Pakistani Taliban msg claims responsibility for NYC bomb attempt ++US Iran 01:27 See Script NEW Clinton says Iran is in violation of nuclear non-proliferation treaty EU Greece 3 05:02 AP Clients Only REPLAY Eurozone ministers discuss Greece bailout; roundtable; Merkel Italy Pope 2 02:29 AP Clients Only REPLAY Pope Benedict XVI visits Turin, views Shroud Germany Video 00:34 AP Clients Only REPLAY Police investigate after officer seen in AmVid kicking protester in the head ++EU Greece 4 03:03 AP Clients Only NEW Juncker says aid plan for Greece will be euros 110 billion over 3 years Iraq Blasts 2 02:48 Part No Access Iraq WRAP At least 1 dead, 100 injured in double bomb attack; scene of blasts MidEast Talks 2 02:47 AP Clients Only WRAP Israeli PM welcomes progress toward peace talks; Hamas reax B-u-l-l-e-t-i-n begins at 1830 GMT. APEX 05-02-10 1456EDT -----------End of rundown----------- AP-APTN-1830: US Times Sq 6 Sunday, 2 May 2010 STORY:US Times Sq 6- REPLAY AP pix as Taliban claims responsibility; intv with hot dog vendor; Napolitano LENGTH: 03:14 FIRST RUN: 1630 RESTRICTIONS: PART NO ACCESS NAMERICA/INT TYPE: English/Natsound SOURCE: AP TELEVISION/ABC STORY NUMBER: 644503 DATELINE: New York, 2 May 2010 LENGTH: 03:14 AP TELEVISION - AP CLIENTS ONLY ABC - NO ACCESS NORTH AMERICA/ INTERNET SHOTLIST: AP TELEVISION - AP CLIENTS ONLY 1. Wide of Times Square 2. People on street 3. Police from New York Police Department on street 4. Pan of electronic billboards ABC - NO ACCESS NORTH AMERICA/ INTERNET 5. Mid shot of Janet Napolitano and TV anchor 6. SOUNDBITE: (English) Janet Napolitano, Homeland Security Secretary: "Well, right now we have no evidence that it is anything other than a one-off, but we are alerting state and local officials around the country, letting them know, what is going on, the forensics are being done. As leads evolve or develop, they will all be tracked down. This is getting attention - FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation), Department of Homeland Security, New York City police - everybody is on it." AP TELEVISION - AP CLIENTS ONLY 7. Pan of Times Square 8. Tourists shopping at street stall 9. SOUNDBITE: (English) Duane Jackson, street vendor who notified the police: "The mounted police came by and we directed them to the car saying, you know, 'we don't know whose it is.' And then shortly after that, the smoke started coming out of the car, you know and I was like, 'whoa', you know. And they were saying, "Did anybody call the fire department?" And of course, the fire department had been called at that particular point. And maybe about three or four minutes after that, that's when we first heard the popping sound and it was like firecrackers going off, and black smoke, and that's when everybody just ran down the street, you know. I took off, everybody took off." 10. Police crossing the road 11. SOUNDBITE: (English) Duane Jackson, street vendor who notified the police: "If somebody comes into Kennedy Airport right now and doesn't read the newspapers or look at television and comes to Times Square, they would assume, it's business as usual, nothing happened. And that's the resilience of New York and the resilience of Times Square. I mean, you know, every day there's a whole new group of tourists that come in from all over the world and that's what we thrive on." 12. Various of people sitting in street cafe 13. People shopping at street stall 14. SOUNDBITE: (English) Latoma (no last name), tourist from Indiana "Not at all. I think there's enough security out here this morning, police are everywhere. I think if they're going to try something, there's nothing I can do about it. So, I'm not going to let it, I'm not going to be fearful of it, I'm just going to get out here and enjoy what I can enjoy while I'm here and be happy." 15. SOUNDBITE: (English) Earl Morriss, tourist from Seattle: "Hey, that's the world today, it's like, I've been to a lot of other places in the world where a terrorist attack happened while I was there or shortly afterwards. In Moscow, I was in front of a hotel that a week later, peoples' heads got blown off. It's a sad state of affairs, but you know, that's just the world." 16. Police on street 17. Wide of street cafe in Times Square STORYLINE: The Pakistani Taliban claimed responsibility in a video released on Sunday for the attempted car bomb attack in Times Square in New York City according to a monitoring website. Police found an "amateurish" but potentially powerful bomb in a smoking sport utility vehicle parked in Times Square - one of the city's main tourist destinations, authorities said on Sunday. Several hours after the incident, the Pakistani Taliban claimed responsibility in a video released on Sunday for the attempted car bomb attack. Thousands of tourists were cleared from the streets near the Broadway theatres for 10 hours after two vendors alerted police to the suspicious vehicle, which contained three propane tanks, fireworks, two filled 5-gallon (19-litre) gasoline containers, and two clocks with batteries, electrical wire and other components, Police Commissioner Raymond Kelly said. The bomb appeared to be starting to detonate but malfunctioned, a top police spokesman said on Sunday. Firefighters and witnesses said they heard a popping sound from inside the vehicle. In one minute video allegedly released by the Pakistani Taliban, the group says the attack is revenge for the death of its leader Baitullah Mehsud and the recent killings of the top leaders of al-Qaida in Iraq. The video was uncovered on Sunday by the US-based SITE intelligence Group, which monitors militant websites. Before the announcement from the Taliban, US Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano said on NBC's "Meet the Press" that officials are treating the incident as a potential extremist attack. "As leads evolve or develop, they will all be tracked down. This is getting attention - FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation), Department of Homeland Security, New York City police - everybody is on it," she added. A T-shirt vendor and a handbag vendor alerted police at about 6:30 pm (2230 GMT) the height of dinner hour before theatre goers head to Saturday night shows. Duane Jackson, a 58-year-old handbag vendor, said he noticed the car and wondered who had left it there. Jackson said he looked in the car and saw keys in the ignition with 19 or 20 keys on a ring. He said he alerted a passing mounted police officer. "That's when we first heard the popping sound and it was like firecrackers going off, and black smoke, and that's when everybody just ran down the street, you know. I took off, everybody took off," he said. He didn't think the car had been there for more than 10 or 15 minutes. A white robotic police arm broke windows of the SUV to remove any explosive materials. US President Barack Obama, praised the quick response by the New York Police Department, a White House spokesman said. Officials said the device found on Saturday was crudely constructed, but Islamic militants have used propane and compressed gas for years to enhance the force of explosives. Those instances include the 1983 suicide attack on the US Marines barracks at the Beirut airport that killed 241 US service members, and the 2007 attack on the international airport in Glasgow, Scotland. In 2007, the US military announced that an al-Qaida front group was using propane to rig car bombs in Iraq. The Pakistani Taliban is one of Pakistan's largest and deadliest militant groups. It has strong links to al-Qaida and is based in the northwest close to the Afghan border. The group has carried out scores of bloody attacks inside Pakistan in recent years, mostly against Pakistani targets, but it has made no secret of its hatred toward the United States. If the claim of responsibility is genuine, it would be the first time the group has struck outside of South Asia. Last year, its then commander, Baitullah Mehsud, vowed to "amaze everyone in the world" with an attack on Washington or even the White House. But Mehsud also reportedly said his men were behind a mass shooting in March 2009 at the American Civic Association in Binghamton in April 2009. That claim turned out to be false. Clients are reminded: (i) to check the terms of their licence agreements for use of content outside news programming and that further advice and assistance can be obtained from the AP Archive on: Tel +44 (0) 20 7482 7482 Email: infoaparchive.com (ii) they should check with the applicable collecting society in their Territory regarding the clearance of any sound recording or performance included within the AP Television News service (iii) they have editorial responsibility for the use of all and any content included within the AP Television News service and for libel, privacy, compliance and third party rights applicable to their Territory. APTN APEX 05-02-10 1444EDT ------------------- END -- OF -- ITEM ------------------- AP-APTN-1830: ++Internet Pakistan Taliban Sunday, 2 May 2010 STORY:++Internet Pakistan Taliban- NEW +GRAPHIC+ Purported Pakistani Taliban msg claims NYC car bomb attempt LENGTH: 01:18 FIRST RUN: 1830 RESTRICTIONS: See Script TYPE: Natsound SOURCE: SITE STORY NUMBER: 644515 DATELINE: Unknown date and location LENGTH: 01:18 ++PLEASE NOTE THIS VIDEO CONTAINS SOME GRAPHIC IMAGES OF DEAD BODIES++ SITE INTELLIGENCE GROUP - AP CLIENTS ONLY THE ASSOCIATED PRESS HAS NO WAY OF INDEPENDENTLY VERIFYING THE CONTENT, LOCATION OR DATE OF THIS VIDEO PLEASE DO NOT OBSCURE ON-SCREEN LOGO AND CREDIT SITE INTELLIGENCE GROUP IN ANY ACCOMPANYING VOICE-OVER SITE INTELLIGENCE GROUP IS A WASHINGTON-BASED MONITOR OF MILITANT WEB SITES THE TRANSLATIONS OVERLAID ARE NOT AP TRANSLATIONS SHOTLIST ++VIDEO SUBTITLED IN ENGLISH THROUGHOUT. PLEASE NOTE: THE TRANSLATIONS OVERLAID ARE NOT AP TRANSLATIONS++ 1. Slate reading (English) "Tehrik-e-Taliban (TTP) Claim of Times Square Attack. May 2, 2010 SITE Intelligence Group" 2. Text in gold letters on a black background celebrating the "jawbreaking blow to Satan's USA." UPSOUND: Unidentified speaker 3. Various of dead bodies, some purported to be slain militants, according to speaker. Second image (man with red background) is of slain Al Qaida leader in Iraq Abu Ayyub al-Masri. Image of woman is alleged al-Qaida associate Aafia Siddiqui seen in the custody of Counter Terrorism Department of Ghazni province in Ghazni City, Afghanistan in 2008. UPSOUND: Unidentified speaker 4. Various of purported NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organisation) meeting UPSOUND: Unidentified speaker 5. Graphic montage of various images, including picture of US President Barack Obama UPSOUND: Unidentified speaker STORYLINE The Pakistani Taliban has claimed responsibility in a video released on Sunday for the attempted car bomb attack in New York City's Times Square. Despite the claim of responsibility, New York City's police commissioner said there was no evidence of a Taliban link to the failed car bomb. In the 1 minute, 11 second video allegedly released by the Pakistani Taliban, the group says the attack is revenge for the death of its leader, Baitullah Mehsud, and the recent slayings of leaders of al-Qaida in Iraq - Abu Omar al-Baghdadi and Abu Ayyub al-Masri - killed by US and Iraqi troops last month north of Baghdad. An unidentified speaker on the tape also says the attack comes in response to American "interference and terrorism in Muslim Countries, especially in Pakistan," and cites US missile attacks in Pakistan's tribal areas that have targeted Taliban leaders hiding there. If the claim of responsibility is genuine, it would be the first time the group has struck outside of South Asia. It has no known global infrastructure like al-Qaida. In at least one past instance, the Pakistani Taliban has claimed responsibility for an attack it played no role in. The claim, which was posted on militant websites and uncovered by the US-based SITE Intelligence Group, could not be immediately confirmed. The tape makes no specific reference to Saturday's failed attack in New York; it does not mention that it was a car bomb or where the attack took place. At the start of the video, a text in gold letters on a black background celebrates the "jawbreaking blow to Satan's USA." As the speaker delivers the message, images of the purported slain militants referred to flash across the screen. English subtitles are provided at the bottom of the screen. The video also includes a 2008 still of alleged al-Qaida female associate Aafia Siddiqui seen in the custody of Counter Terrorism Department of Ghazni province in Ghazni City, Afghanistan. Siddiqui was accused of grabbing a US Army officer's rifle in Afghanistan in July 2008 and firing at US soldiers and FBI agents. The voice also calls on NATO countries to oppose "evil US policies" and "sincerely apologise for the massacres in Iraq, Yemen, Afghanistan and Pakistani tribal areas." The video was uncovered Sunday by SITE, which monitors militant websites. The claim came a day after police in New York found a potentially powerful car bomb that apparently began to detonate but did not explode in a smoking sport utility vehicle in Times Square. Thousands of tourists were cleared from the streets for 10 hours after two vendors alerted police to the suspicious vehicle, which contained three propane tanks, fireworks, two filled 5-gallon gasoline containers, and two clocks with batteries, electrical wire and other components, officials said. The Pakistani Taliban is one of Pakistan's largest and deadliest militant groups. It has strong links to al-Qaida and is based in the northwest close to the Afghan border. The group has carried out scores of bloody attacks inside Pakistan in recent years, mostly against Pakistani targets, but it has made no secret of its stance against the United States. Last year, its then commander, Baitullah Mehsud, vowed to "amaze everyone in the world" with an attack on Washington or even the White House. But Mehsud also reportedly said his men were behind a mass shooting in March 2009 at the American Civic Association in Binghamton in April 2009. That claim turned out to be false. Clients are reminded: (i) to check the terms of their licence agreements for use of content outside news programming and that further advice and assistance can be obtained from the AP Archive on: Tel +44 (0) 20 7482 7482 Email: infoaparchive.com (ii) they should check with the applicable collecting society in their Territory regarding the clearance of any sound recording or performance included within the AP Television News service (iii) they have editorial responsibility for the use of all and any content included within the AP Television News service and for libel, privacy, compliance and third party rights applicable to their Territory. APTN APEX 05-02-10 1623EDT ------------------- END -- OF -- ITEM ------------------- AP-APTN-1830: ++US Iran Sunday, 2 May 2010 STORY:++US Iran- NEW Clinton says Iran is in violation of nuclear non-proliferation treaty LENGTH: 01:27 FIRST RUN: 1830 RESTRICTIONS: See Script TYPE: English/Nat SOURCE: NBC STORY NUMBER: 644514 DATELINE: Washington DC - 30 Apr 2010 LENGTH: 01:27 NBC - Meet the Press - Must On-Screen Courtesy 'Meet The Press' - No Archive SHOTLIST 30 April 2010 ++AIRED FOR THE FIRST TIME ON 2ND OF MAY++ 1. Wide of US Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton on "Meet the Press" 2. SOUNDBITE: (English) Hillary Clinton, US Secretary of State: (overlaid with wide cutaways) "I don't know what he's (referring to Iran's president, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad) showing up for because the purpose of the Non-proliferation Treaty Review Conference is to reiterate the commitment of the international community to the three goals: disarmament, non-proliferation, the peaceful uses of nuclear energy. So the vast majority of countries are coming to see what progress we can make." 3. Clinton on set of "Meet the Press" 4. SOUNDBITE: (English) Hillary Clinton, US Secretary of State: "If Iran is coming to say we're willing to abide by the Non-proliferation Treaty (NPT), that would be very welcome news. I have a feeling that's not what they're coming to do. I think they're coming to try to divert attention and confuse the issue. And there is no confusion. They have violated the terms of the NPT. They have been held under all kinds of restrictions and obligations that they have not complied with by the IAEA, the International Atomic Energy Agency, by the UN Security Council. So we're not going to permit Iran to try to change the story from their failure to comply and in any way upset the efforts we are in the midst of, which is to get the international community to adopt a strong Security Council resolution that further isolates them and imposes consequences for their behaviour." 5. Clinton on "Meet the Press" STORYLINE: US Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton said in an interview aired on Sunday that it is clear that Iran is in violation of a treaty designed to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons. The United Nations is holding a conference this coming week on the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and Iran's president, Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, is expected to address delegates ahead of Clinton on Monday. Clinton told NBC's "Meet the Press" that his trip was an effort to divert attention and confuse people about Iran's violation of the treaty. She says the UN conference was designed to make clear the global commitment to disarmament, peaceful nuclear energy and limiting the spread of nuclear weapons. "I don't know what he's showing up for because the purpose of the Non-proliferation Treaty Review Conference is to reiterate the commitment of the international community to the three goals: disarmament, non-proliferation, the peaceful uses of nuclear energy. So the vast majority of countries are coming to see what progress we can make," she said in an interview filmed on Friday but aired on Sunday. Clinton said it would be welcome news if Ahmadinejad was coming to say Tehran would abide by the Non-proliferation Treaty. But she said she had "a feeling that's not what they're coming to do." "We're not going to permit Iran to try to change the story from their failure to comply and in any way upset the efforts we are in the midst of." Delegates from 189 nations will convene on Monday for a twice-a-decade marathon of diplomacy and deal making over the 40-year-old treaty designed to check the spread of nuclear weapons worldwide. Ahmadinejad is expected to address the delegates ahead of Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton on Monday, the opening day of the conference at the United Nations. The presence of Ahmadinejad, the only head of state taking part, ensures sharp words will fly over Tehran's nuclear programme and Israel's reported secret bombs, as well as over treaty outsider North Korea and the huge US and Russian nuclear arsenals. Iran last year rejected a UN-backed plan that offered nuclear fuel rods in exchange for most of Iran's stock of lower-level enriched uranium. Beyond meeting Iran's needs, the US and its allies saw the proposal as delaying Iran's ability to make a nuclear weapon by stripping it of much of the enriched uranium it would need for such a project. Tehran denies seeking such arms, insisting it is enriching only for an envisaged network of power-generating nuclear reactors. The main stumbling block has been Tehran's refusal to ship the bulk of its low-enriched uranium abroad, a condition insisted upon by the West as key to slowing Iran's accumulation of enriched uranium and thereby any bomb-making capacities. Clients are reminded: (i) to check the terms of their licence agreements for use of content outside news programming and that further advice and assistance can be obtained from the AP Archive on: Tel +44 (0) 20 7482 7482 Email: infoaparchive.com (ii) they should check with the applicable collecting society in their Territory regarding the clearance of any sound recording or performance included within the AP Television News service (iii) they have editorial responsibility for the use of all and any content included within the AP Television News service and for libel, privacy, compliance and third party rights applicable to their Territory. APTN APEX 05-02-10 1505EDT ------------------- END -- OF -- ITEM ------------------- AP-APTN-1830: EU Greece 3 Sunday, 2 May 2010 STORY:EU Greece 3- REPLAY Eurozone ministers discuss Greece bailout; roundtable; Merkel LENGTH: 05:02 FIRST RUN: 1630 RESTRICTIONS: AP Clients Only TYPE: Various/Natsound SOURCE: AP TELEVISION/EBS STORY NUMBER: 644507 DATELINE: Various - 2 May 2010 LENGTH: 05:02 AP TELEVISION - AP CLIENTS ONLY EBS - AP CLIENTS ONLY SHOTLIST (FIRST RUN 1530 NEWS UPDATE - 02 MAY 2010) AP TELEVISION - AP CLIENTS ONLY Brussels, Belgium 1. Wide exterior of European Union (EU) Council headquarters, the Justus Lipsius building 2. Various of German Finance Minister Wolfgang Schaeuble arriving at Eurogroup meeting 3. Schauble being greeted by French Finance Minister Christine Lagarde 4. SOUNDBITE (French) Christine Lagarde, French Finance Minister: "European citizens from the Eurozone, including the citizens of France, will of course see their money back. Why is that? Because they are bilateral loans. So France is going to lend Greece at a well determined interest rate and this loan will be reimbursed, the capital and with interest. Is this the tutelage of the Greek economy? Yes and no. From one side there are very precise commitments made by the Greek government and on the other hand there are controls which can be exercised by the (European) Commission and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to make sure that these commitments are respected." 5. EU monetary affairs commissioner, Olli Rehn arriving 6. Cutaway of cameras 7. SOUNDBITE (English) Luc Frieden, Luxembourg Finance Minister: "I think that what the Greek government decided this morning is very impressive. It'll be very tough for the Greek people and it is in our interest, the interest of the common Eurozone, that we now give the bilateral loans, otherwise the markets will doubt the seriousness of the European Union to act. I think the Eurozone is ready to act." 8. Greek finance minister George Papaconstantinou arriving 9. European Central Bank President Jean-Claude Trichet arriving (FIRST RUN 1530 NEWS UPDATE - 02 MAY 2010) EBS - AP CLIENTS ONLY Brussels, Belgium 10. SOUNDBITE (English) Jose Manuel Barroso, EU Commission President: "Greece has approved a very credible and solid package. I just now spoke on the phone with (Greek) Prime Minister Papandreou to pay tribute to its determination. We believe this is the only way for Greece to assure stability and prosperity of the Greek people. The European Commission considers that the conditions are now met for the activation of the European mechanism for financial assistance to Greece. We want also to make it clear that all needs of Greece will be met on time." 11. Frieden, Schaeuble talking with other officials 12. Lagarde shaking hands with officials 13. Lagarde speaking with Frieden and Schaeuble 14. Various of Portuguese Finance Minister Fernando Teixeira dos Santos 15. Trichet arriving for round table meetings with Italian Finance Minister Giulio Tremonti 16. Tremonti seated at table 17. Various of Papaconstantinou (FIRST RUN 1630 EUROPE PRIME NEWS - 02 MAY 2010) AP TELEVISION - AP CLIENTS ONLY Bonn, Germany 18. Angela Merkel, German Chancellor and Felipe Calderon, Mexico President arriving for news conference 19. SOUNDBITE (German) Angela Merkel, German Chancellor: "I welcome that the Greek government, the ECB (European Central Bank), the commission and the IMF managed to negotiate (agreed on) a programme and also to get the approval of the Greek cabinet. I had telephone conversation with the Greek Prime Minister and I think, and I made clear, that it is a very challenging programme." 20. Cutaway of photographer 21. SOUNDBITE (German) Angela Merkel, German Chancellor: "We will now certainly work, if the agreement of the Finance Ministers will be made in Brussels today, that the aid measures of the other European states can be pushed through accordingly. If the finance ministers find an agreement today, the German government will hold talks in the cabinet tomorrow and will then inform the heads of the parties and fractions in the German Bundesrat (Upper House of Parliament) and then we will start to hold talks, so that we might be able to find a national agreement by Friday if there are positive developments." 22. Merkel and Calderon shaking hands, leaving (FIRST RUN 1530 NEWS UPDATE - 02 MAY 2010) AP TELEVISION - AP CLIENTS ONLY Athens, Greece 23. Greek flag flying, seen through tree branch 24. Medium of people walking in Syntagma Square 25. SOUNDBITE (English) Platon Monokroussos, Greek economist: "The new austerity programme will be painful for the domestic economy as it will place a heavy burden on disposable incomes, especially for public sector employees. On the more positive side, and assuming rigorous implementation of the package, the measures will assist the government to tackle long-standing imbalances in the domestic economy and eventually bring the economy towards a more sustainable growth path." 26 . Street scene in Athens STORYLINE Greece outlined strict new austerity measures required by an international bailout and Germany said on Sunday there was a good chance it would approve its part of the euro-zone and International Monetary Fund (IMF) rescue before next weekend. The finance ministers of the 16 European Union (EU) nations that use the euro were holding an emergency meeting in Brussels to discuss the plan - the first-ever bailout of a euro-zone country - under which euro- zone countries and the IMF will extend loans to Greece over three years. The exact amount of the three-year package will be agreed on during the meeting, but is expected to be about 120 (b) billion euro (160 (b) billion US dollars). Germany, the euro zone's largest economy and Greece's toughest critic, will be the largest contributor of loans, but has been reluctant to release funds. Before entering the eurozone meeting, German Finance Minister, Wolfgang Schaeuble outlined the reasons why the Eurozone was offering financial assistance to Greece. Chancellor Angela Merkel had insisted Greece needed to implement more austerity measures - a move which the country made on Sunday. Berlin needs to pass the issue through parliament before it can approve activating its part in the rescue. Merkel will meet on Monday with her Cabinet and parliamentary party leaders to set the process in motion. Merkel's Christian Democrats and their coalition partners, the Free Democrats, hold a majority in parliament. Speaking in the German city of Bonn, while holding talks with Mexico President Felipe Calderon, Merkel said she was pleased that the Greek government, the ECB, EU commission and the IMF had managed to a agree on a "very challenging programme." Merkel and Calderon were meeting ahead of the official opening of the Petersberg Climate Dialogue summit. Christine Lagarde, the French Finance Minister, attempted to reassure European citizens on Sunday that this was simply a loan and they were guaranteed to get their money back. "They are bilateral loans. So France is going to lend Greece at a well determined interest rate and this loan will be reimbursed, the capital and with interest," she added. Luc Frieden, Luxembourg Finance Minister, said the Greek government should be commended for their efforts as they had done what was asking of them by the Eurozone. "It'll be very tough for the Greek people and it is in our interest, the interest of the common Eurozone that we now give the bilateral loans, otherwise the markets will doubt the seriousness of the European Union to act," he added. A senior International Monetary Fund official said the IMF's executive board was meeting in Washington to consider how much aid to grant Athens under a massive rescue loan package. The meeting coincides with the emergency talks in Brussels among eurozone finance ministers. The IMF's Poul Thomsen told reporters in Athens it would take at least a week for Greece to start receiving funds. He praised Greece's "draconian reforms." The lead European Union negotiator in Athens insisted the aid package would not serve as a "blueprint" for other eurozone countries with troubled finances. Earlier Sunday, Greece outlined strict measures, including cuts in civil servants' salaries and pensions, and tax increases, as part of an agreement reached late Saturday night with the IMF and EU. The measures aim to cut the deficit to below 3 percent of gross domestic product, within EU limits, by 2014. The deficit currently stands at 13.6 percent. EU Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso described the aid as "decisive" in getting Greece back on track and protect the financial stability of the 16 nations using the euro currency. "We believe this is the only way for Greece to assure stability and prosperity of the Greek people. The European Commission considers that the conditions are now met for the activation of the European mechanism for financial assistance to Greece. We want also to make it clear that all needs of Greece will be met on time," he added. The Greek announcements also won praise from the EU's monetary affairs commissioner, Olli Rehn. It remains unclear whether Sunday's meeting in Brussels will be enough to give final approval for Athens to start receiving the money or whether a summit of eurozone heads of government will be required. Greece has 8.5 (b) billion euro (11.3 (b) billion US dollars) worth of a 10-year bond maturing on May 19. Papaconstantinou said savings worth 30 (b) billion euro (39.9 (b) billion US dollars) through 2012 would be achieved through public service and pension pay cuts, higher taxes and a streamlined government. Annual holiday bonuses will be capped at one thousand euros (1,330 US dollars) per year for civil servants and scrapped for those with gross monthly salaries over three thousand euro (3,995 US dollars), he said. Pensioners' bonuses will also be capped at 800 euro (1062 US dollars) and cancelled for those paid more than 2,500 euro (3,330 US dollars). Salary cuts will not extend to the private sector, as had been widely feared. Greeks receive their annual pay in 14 salaries, receiving extra at Christmas, Easter and for their summer vacations. Taxes would also be increased, including further hikes on fuel, alcohol and tobacco. The top bracket of sales tax rises from 21 percent to 23 percent. Papaconstantinou said his country's debt would reach 140 percent of GDP (gross domestic product) in 2013 and start falling from 2014, while economic output is set to contract by 4 percent in 2010 and by 2.6 percent in 2011 before it starts recovering slowly beginning in 2012. The new austerity measures were seen as essential for the EU and IMF to unblock the rescue package, which Athens asked for last week and which will see other eurozone countries and the IMF extend loans to Greece. Papaconstantinou said the government hoped to be able to return to borrowing on the market soon, but that the plan would allow the government breathing space to implement its austerity program and put its finances in order. Earlier, Greek Prime Minister George Papandreou announced his government had reached an agreement in tough negotiations with the IMF and EU on the measures. Papandreou called on Greeks to make "great sacrifices" to avoid a catastrophe, and said the country's problematic civil service would bear the brunt. There will also be deep cuts in defence spending and hospital procurement, the prime minister said. In Athens, Platon Monokroussos, a Greek economist said the new austerity package would be painful but would eventually lead the country to a more sustainable growth path. Monokroussos said the package announced by the country's finance minister would place a burden on disposable incomes especially for public sector employees but would help the government overcome imbalances in the domestic economy and would eventually lead to growth. "On the more positive side, and assuming rigorous implementation of the package, the measures will assist the government to tackle long-standing imbalances in the domestic economy and eventually bring the economy towards a more sustainable growth path," he added. Some economists believe that Greece's adjustment will be painful, but no more so than when the country devalued its then currency, the drachma, twice in the 1980s and once in the 1990s. Clients are reminded: (i) to check the terms of their licence agreements for use of content outside news programming and that further advice and assistance can be obtained from the AP Archive on: Tel +44 (0) 20 7482 7482 Email: infoaparchive.com (ii) they should check with the applicable collecting society in their Territory regarding the clearance of any sound recording or performance included within the AP Television News service (iii) they have editorial responsibility for the use of all and any content included within the AP Television News service and for libel, privacy, compliance and third party rights applicable to their Territory. APTN APEX 05-02-10 1444EDT ------------------- END -- OF -- ITEM ------------------- AP-APTN-1830: Italy Pope 2 Sunday, 2 May 2010 STORY:Italy Pope 2- REPLAY Pope Benedict XVI visits Turin, views Shroud LENGTH: 02:29 FIRST RUN: 1630 RESTRICTIONS: AP Clients Only TYPE: Italian/Natsound SOURCE: Vatican TV STORY NUMBER: 644509 DATELINE: Turin, 2 May 2010 LENGTH: 02:29 VATICAN TV - AP CLIENTS ONLY SHOTLIST 1. Exterior of Turin's Cathedral 2. Pull out from dome to the wide of the Cathedral's exteriors 3. Various of Pope Benedict XVI entering the Cathedral 4. Wide of the altar and the Shroud 5. Close-up pan right of the Shroud 6. Pope praying 7. Zoom in of Pope meditating 8. Zoom out of nuns praying 9. Wide of Pope praying 10. Pope making sign of the cross and getting up 11. Wide of Pope speaking 12. SOUNDBITE (Italian) Pope Benedict XVI, leader of the Catholic church: "What does the Shroud tell us? The Shroud talks through blood, but blood is life. The Shroud is an icon written in blood; the blood of a man who was whipped, crowned with thorns, crucified and injured on his right side. The image of the Shroud is the image of a dead man, but the blood talks of life." 13. Wide of pope giving blessing 14. Mid of Shroud 15. Various of Pope leaving the church 16. Wide exterior of Turin's Cathedral STORYLINE Pope Benedict XVI took a break on Sunday from dealing with the clerical sex abuse scandal to pray before the Shroud of Turin, the linen with an image of a crucified man on it that some believe is Christ's burial cloth and others dismiss as a medieval fake. Benedict did not definitively declare the Shroud that of Jesus Christ, but said it was "an icon written in blood; the blood of a man who was whipped, crowned with thorns, crucified and injured on his right side." In a meditation delivered after praying for four minutes before the Shroud, the pope said the relic should be seen as a photographic document of the "darkest mystery of faith" - that of Christ's crucifixion and resurrection. The 14-foot-long, 3.5-foot-wide (4.3-metre-long, 1 metre-wide) cloth has gone on public display for the first time since the 2000 Millennium celebrations and a subsequent 2002 restoration. Kept in a bulletproof, climate-controlled case in Turin's cathedral, it has drawn nearly 2 million (m) reservations from pilgrims and tourists eager to spend three to five minutes viewing it. At the start of a Mass, Turin archbishop Cardinal Severino Poletto welcomed Benedict to join those who have silently prayed before the sepia-toned cloth. The Shroud bears the figure of a crucified man, complete with blood seeping from his hands and feet, and believers say Christ's image was recorded on the linen's fibres at the time of his resurrection. Benedict's visit to the holy relic is a bit of a respite from meetings with bishops to discuss resignations from inside their ranks over sex abuse by priests of children and the bishops' failure to report it to civil authorities. In the past week, Benedict met with German bishops to discuss one high-profile resignation and he has another such meeting planned Monday with Belgian bishops. In between, he met with five Vatican investigators who reported on an eight-month probe into the Legionaries of Christ; the Vatican announced Saturday that Benedict would appoint a personal delegate to lead the discredited order and reform it after revelations that its founder sexually abused seminarians and fathered at least one child. While the visit to Turin is a break of sorts, it's not without its own controversies: The Vatican has tiptoed around the issue of just what the Shroud of Turin is, calling it a powerful symbol of Christ's suffering while making no claim to its authenticity. A Vatican researcher said late last year that faint writing on the linen, which she studied through computer-enhanced images, proves the cloth was used to wrap Jesus' body after his crucifixion. But experts stand by carbon-dating of scraps of the cloth that determine the linen was made in the 13th or 14th century in a kind of medieval forgery. That testing didn't explain how the image on the Shroud - of a man with wounds similar to those suffered by Christ - was formed. However, some have suggested the dating results might have been skewed by contamination and called for a larger sample to be analysed. Clients are reminded: (i) to check the terms of their licence agreements for use of content outside news programming and that further advice and assistance can be obtained from the AP Archive on: Tel +44 (0) 20 7482 7482 Email: infoaparchive.com (ii) they should check with the applicable collecting society in their Territory regarding the clearance of any sound recording or performance included within the AP Television News service (iii) they have editorial responsibility for the use of all and any content included within the AP Television News service and for libel, privacy, compliance and third party rights applicable to their Territory. APTN APEX 05-02-10 1445EDT ------------------- END -- OF -- ITEM ------------------- AP-APTN-1830: Germany Video Sunday, 2 May 2010 STORY:Germany Video- REPLAY Police investigate after officer seen in AmVid kicking protester in the head LENGTH: 00:34 FIRST RUN: 1630 RESTRICTIONS: AP Clients Only TYPE: Natsound SOURCE: AMATEUR VIDEO STORY NUMBER: 644504 DATELINE: Berlin, 1 May 2010 LENGTH: 00:34 AMATEUR VIDEO - AP CLIENTS ONLY ++CLIENTS NOTE: AP CANNOT INDEPENDENTLY VERIFY THIS VIDEO++ SHOTLIST: 1. Wide of demonstration 2. Demonstrators running from police line 3. Close of police running after demonstrators, one officer stumbles over a fallen protester as the next officer is seen kicking him in the head as he runs past, the protester is then lifted to his feet by onlookers STORYLINE: Berlin police are investigating an officer who was caught on video kicking a black-clad protester in the head as police broke up a mass of demonstrators at Saturday's May Day protests. Berlin police superintendent Dieter Glietsch said on Sunday that footage of the helmeted officer kicking the protester - who had stumbled to the ground and caused another officer to lose his footing - was caught on internal video. But another amateur video, shot by someone in the crowd and posted on the internet site YouTube, also showed Saturday's incident. In the video, a young man stumbled to the pavement as police moved forward at a brisk pace. He was caught underfoot by one officer, who stumbled, while the next policeman can be seen lifting his right leg and striking the man's head with his boot. AP Television could not independently verify the contents of the video. Police have not yet identified the officer seen delivering the swift kick nor the person who was struck. The video showed the protestor lifted to his feet by others in the crowd, police have appealed for the victim and any witnesses to come forward. Police say some 100 officers were injured in violent clashes on May Day, with more than 480 demonstrators arrested. Clients are reminded: (i) to check the terms of their licence agreements for use of content outside news programming and that further advice and assistance can be obtained from the AP Archive on: Tel +44 (0) 20 7482 7482 Email: infoaparchive.com (ii) they should check with the applicable collecting society in their Territory regarding the clearance of any sound recording or performance included within the AP Television News service (iii) they have editorial responsibility for the use of all and any content included within the AP Television News service and for libel, privacy, compliance and third party rights applicable to their Territory. APTN APEX 05-02-10 1445EDT ------------------- END -- OF -- ITEM ------------------- AP-APTN-1830: ++EU Greece 4 Sunday, 2 May 2010 STORY:++EU Greece 4- NEW Juncker says aid plan for Greece will be euros 110 billion over 3 years LENGTH: 03:03 FIRST RUN: 1830 RESTRICTIONS: AP Clients Only TYPE: English/French/Natsound SOURCE: EBS STORY NUMBER: 644508 DATELINE: Brussels - 2 May 2010 LENGTH: 03:03 ++CLIENTS PLEASE NOTE STORYLINE UPDATED 2030 GMT++ EBS - AP CLIENTS ONLY SHOTLIST: 1. Wide of podium 2. Panel sitting down for news conference 3. SOUNDBITE: (English) Jean-Claude Juncker, Eurogroup President: "In the context of a three year joint programme with the IMF, the financial package made available: 110 (b) billion euros to help Greece meet its financial needs with euro area member states ready to contribute for their part 80 (b) billion euros of which up to 30 (b) billion euros in the first year." 4. Cutaway of reporter 5. SOUNDBITE: (English) Olli Rehn, EU Monetary Affairs Commissioner: "I am indeed grateful that the eurogroup has today decided to endorse this programme. The Commission strongly supports the economic programme of fiscal consolidation and structural reforms announced today by the government of Greece on the basis of our agreement last night. The steps being taken, while difficult, are necessary to restore confidence in the Greek economy." 6. Wide of podium 7. SOUNDBITE: (English) Olli Rehn, EU Monetary Affairs Commissioner: "If implemented effectively, and I am certain it will be, the programme will lead to a more dynamic economy that will deliver growth jobs and prosperity for Greece and the Greek people that they need in the future." 8. Cutaway of reporter 9. SOUNDBITE: (English) George Papaconstantinou, Greek finance minister: We are fully aware that this is a programme that is not going to be easy. It is not going to be easy on Greek citizens, despite the efforts that have been made and will continue to be made to protect the weakest in society. We are absolutely convinced that this is a necessary programme." 10. Wide of podium 11. SOUNDBITE: (French) George Papaconstantinou, Greek finance minister: "We have made an enormous effort not to touch on the lowest salaries in the public sector, nor the lowest pensions in the public and the private sectors." 12. Cutaway of reporter 13. SOUNDBITE: (French) Jean-Claude Juncker, Eurogroup President: "I almost lost my patience during this process but I realise our processes are complicated, that there are cultural differences in the euro area. Not everyone is the same, we have to respect parliamentary procedures, internal political discussions and the public has to have things explained to it. Different questions are put in different countries." 14. Wide of podium STORYLINE: Finance ministers from the 16 countries that use the euro agreed on Sunday to rescue Greece with 147 (b) billion dollars in loans over three years to keep it from defaulting on its debts. The loan package with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) is also aimed at keeping Greece's debt crisis from spreading to other financially weak countries such as Spain and Portugal - just as Europe is struggling out of a painful recession. In return, Greece had to agree to an austerity programme that will impose painful spending cuts and tax increases on its people for years to come. The plan will still need approval by some countries' parliaments. But the head of the eurogroup, Luxembourg's Jean-Claude Juncker, said Greece will get the first funds by May 19, when Athens has 8.5 (b) billion euros (11.3 (b) billion US dollars) worth of a 10-year bond maturing. Fears that the money might be held up by objections in powerful eurozone member Germany - where the Greek bailout is not popular - sent shudders through bond and stock markets last week. But European Union President Herman Van Rompuy called for a special summit of the euro countries on May 7 to "conclude the whole process" once national parliaments deal with the issue "in the next few days." Berlin needs parliament to approve its part in the rescue but Finance Minister Wolfgang Schaeuble and Chancellor Angela Merkel said that could be wrapped up by Friday. Juncker said the eurozone would contribute 107 (b) billion dollars to the package, with 40 (b) billion of that to be made available his year. The rest of the money would come from the Washington, DC-based IMF. EU Monetary Affairs Commissioner Ollie Rehn said the loans from other eurozone countries to Greece would carry an interest rate of around five percent. Because the interest rate is higher than the one those countries face themselves on the market, they could make money out of the rescue package. But the rate is significantly lower than Greece would face if it tried to borrow on the international market, where it has seen its borrowing costs spiral because of investor fears it would default. Athens has said the plan will allow it breathing space to implement harsh new austerity measures it announced earlier on Sunday to bring its economy into order. The new measures Greek Finance Minister George Papaconstantinou announced earlier in Athens include cuts in civil servants' salaries and pensions, and tax increases that aim to cut the deficit to below 3 percent of gross domestic product, within EU limits, by 2014. The deficit currently stands at 13.6 percent. He said savings worth 40 (b) billion dollars through 2012 would be achieved through public service and pension pay cuts, higher taxes and streamlining government. Annual holiday bonuses will be capped at 1,330 dollars per year for civil servants and scrapped for those with gross monthly salaries over 3,995 dollars, he said. Pensioners' bonuses will also be capped at 1,068 dollars and cancelled for those paid more than 3,330 dollars. Salary cuts will not extend to the private sector, as had been widely feared. Greeks receive their annual pay in 14 salaries, receiving extra at Christmas, Easter and for their summer vacations. The IMF and EU said the bailout and austerity programme were tough and would help Greece out of its troubles, but warned it would take years. "The steps being taken, while difficult, are necessary to restore confidence in the Greek economy and to secure a better future for the Greek people," said a joint statement by Rehn and IMF head Dominique Strauss-Kahn. "We are confident that Greece will rise to the challenge and succeed." Many economists say that while a bailout would keep Greece from defaulting in the next year or two, its meagre prospects for economic growth mean it will have difficulty paying off its debt pile over the long term. Clients are reminded: (i) to check the terms of their licence agreements for use of content outside news programming and that further advice and assistance can be obtained from the AP Archive on: Tel +44 (0) 20 7482 7482 Email: infoaparchive.com (ii) they should check with the applicable collecting society in their Territory regarding the clearance of any sound recording or performance included within the AP Television News service (iii) they have editorial responsibility for the use of all and any content included within the AP Television News service and for libel, privacy, compliance and third party rights applicable to their Territory. APTN APEX 05-02-10 1632EDT ------------------- END -- OF -- ITEM ------------------- AP-APTN-1830: Iraq Blasts 2 Sunday, 2 May 2010 STORY:Iraq Blasts 2- WRAP At least 1 dead, 100 injured in double bomb attack; scene of blasts LENGTH: 02:48 FIRST RUN: 1530 RESTRICTIONS: Part No Access Iraq TYPE: Mute/Commnentary/Natsound SOURCE: AP TELEVISION/Al Mosuliyah TV STORY NUMBER: 644502 DATELINE: Mosul/Irbil, 2 May 2010 LENGTH: 02:48 AP TELEVISION - AP CLIENTS ONLY MOSULIYAH TV - NO ACCESS IRAQ ++AUDIO AS INCOMING++ SHOTLIST: (FIRST RUN 1530 NEWS UPDATE - 02 MAY 2010) MOSULIYAH TV - NO ACCESS IRAQ Mosul ++MUTE++ 1. Wide of bus hit by blast 2. Close of blood stains and blast debris including woman's shoe, on floor of bus 3. Various of blood stained seats and blast debris inside bus 4. Pan of damage to second bus hit by blast 5. Various of blood stains and debris inside second bus 6. Zoom out from damaged bus to Iraqi solders standing near by 7. Officials at blast site 8. Tracking shot of buses, Iraqi soldier's gun in foreground ++COMMENTARY++ (FIRST RUN 1330 EUROPE PRIME NEWS - 02 MAY 2010) AP TELEVISION - AP CLIENTS ONLY Irbil 9. Wide of Irbil General Hospital 10. Cutaway of hospital door, sign reading (Arabic/ English) 'Emergency Management Centre' 11. Injured man on stretcher being brought into emergency room 12. Injured woman on stretcher 13. Injured man being helped into hospital 15. Wide of people inside hospital 16. Various of wounded victims lying in hospital beds 17. Injured man being tended to by nurse, Christian priest standing nearby 18. Close up of face of injured woman 19. Various of injured person on hospital bed 20. Iraqi officials visiting the injured 21. Medical and security staff inside hospital STORYLINE: Two bombs exploded minutes apart in the northern Iraq city of Mosul on Sunday, killing at least one bystander and injuring around 100 others, a security official said. The attack began with a roadside bomb that exploded around 7:30 am (4:30 am GMT) and appeared to target buses carrying Christian students to the Mosul University. Moments later, a car bomb exploded nearby. A shop owner in the area was killed in the attack, according to Abdul-Rahim al-Shammari, the head of the provincial council's security committee. The injured included students and other civilians, he said. Video from local broadcaster Mosuliyah TV, taken in the aftermath of the blasts, showed two severely damaged buses with blood stains and debris littering their interiors. At least 17 people with serious wounds were taken to a hospital in Irbil, in the Kurdish autonomous region, said a medical doctor who works at the hospital. Sunni Muslim insurgents have frequently targeted members of Iraq's Christian minority, especially in Mosul, which is home to a large Christian community. Some extremist Sunnis consider Christians to be non-believers and supporters of the Shiite-led government they oppose. The US-based National Council of Churches sent a letter last week to US Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton calling on her to urge Iraqi officials to do more to protect Iraq's Christian community. The organisation said they were particularly worried now as Iraq struggles to seat a government after the March 7 parliamentary elections. Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki's bloc narrowly lost to a coalition led by secular challenger Ayad Allawi, but the prime minister has challenged the results. The ensuing political vacuum has left many observers worried that violence will rise as political battles spill over into the streets. Clients are reminded: (i) to check the terms of their licence agreements for use of content outside news programming and that further advice and assistance can be obtained from the AP Archive on: Tel +44 (0) 20 7482 7482 Email: infoaparchive.com (ii) they should check with the applicable collecting society in their Territory regarding the clearance of any sound recording or performance included within the AP Television News service (iii) they have editorial responsibility for the use of all and any content included within the AP Television News service and for libel, privacy, compliance and third party rights applicable to their Territory. APTN APEX 05-02-10 1444EDT ------------------- END -- OF -- ITEM ------------------- AP-APTN-1830: MidEast Talks 2 Sunday, 2 May 2010 STORY:MidEast Talks 2- WRAP Israeli PM welcomes progress toward peace talks; Hamas reax LENGTH: 02:47 FIRST RUN: 1230 RESTRICTIONS: AP Clients Only TYPE: Various/Natsound SOURCE: AP TELEVISION STORY NUMBER: 644497 DATELINE: Jerusalem/Gaza - 2 May 2010 LENGTH: 02:47 AP TELEVISION - AP CLIENTS ONLY SHOTLIST: (FIRST RUN 0930 AMERICAS PRIME NEWS - 02 MAY 2010) Jerusalem 1. Wide of Israeli President Shimon Peres meeting with Danish Foreign Minister Lene Espersen 2. SOUNDBITE (English) Shimon Peres, Israel's President: ++AUDIO QUALITY AS INCOMING++ "We are very close to begin the proximity talks. It took a bit longer than we hoped for and the problems are not yet solved, but at least a way how to handle them is open." 3. Exterior of Israeli Prime Minister's office 4. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu arriving at cabinet meeting 5. SOUNDBITE (English) Uzi Landau, Israeli Minister of Energy and Infrastructure: "We wish to see people who are prepared to talk, not those who are setting each time new conditions. One should be very concerned to listen to the Palestinian Authority." 6. Israeli Cabinet Minister Avishai Braverman talking to media 7. SOUNDBITE (English) Avishai Braverman, Minister of Minorities: "The most important issue for Israel is to move as soon as possible, not only to proximity talks, to direct talks with the support of the United States, Europe, the moderate Arab countries, Mubarak (referring to Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak), Egypt, in order to have two states. Essentially most of the West Bank will go to Palestine, certain small areas - with most of the settlers - will stay in Israel, and we will work on all the other issues." 8. Wide of Israeli Cabinet meeting 9. Pan of meeting (FIRST RUN 1230 NEWS UPDATE - 02 MAY 2010) Gaza City, Gaza Strip 10. Various of Hamas leader in Gaza, Ismail Haniyeh, arriving and taking his seat at news conference 11. SOUNDBITE (Arabic) Ismail Haniyeh, Hamas leader in Gaza: "We regret the Arab Committee decision of giving Arab backing to resuming the negotiations which are called indirect negotiations. I can't explain the difference between direct or indirect negotiations. All this aims to do is to trick the Palestinians into returning to the negotiation table. Regretfully, this comes during a dangerous Israeli decision which is continuation of judaising Jerusalem, continuation of building settlements and lately the decision of deporting Palestinians from their land." 12. Cutaway of media 13. Haniyeh leaving news conference STORYLINE Israel's prime minister on Sunday welcomed Arab nations' endorsement of indirect, US-brokered peace talks with the Palestinians. Benjamin Netanyahu's office said the prime minister still awaited a formal Palestinian statement on the resumption of peace talks, but renewed his willingness to restart them "at any time and at any place" while insisting they begin "without preconditions." Israeli President Shimon Peres, meanwhile, expressed optimism about the developments whilst meeting visiting Danish Foreign Minister Lene Espersen. "It looks like we are very close to begin the proximity talks," he said in Jerusalem. "It took a little longer than we hoped for and problems are not yet solved but at least the way to handle them is open." Israeli and Palestinian officials said they expect the talks to begin by early next week, and one Israeli official said the dialogue would go beyond formalities and include preliminary discussions on "core issues" in the decades-long conflict. Details on the exact timing and scope of the talks were still being finalised on Sunday, a day after the 22-member Arab League gave the Palestinians the green light for negotiations. At the weekly Cabinet meeting in Jersualem, one Israeli cabinet minister outlined what he expected would be the result of the talks. "Essentially most of the West Bank will go to Palestine, certain small areas - with most with most of the settlers - will stay in Israel, and we will work on all the other issues," Avishai Braverman, the Minister of Minorities said. US Mideast envoy George Mitchell is scheduled to return to the region at the end of the week, and the executive committee of the Palestine Liberation Organisation (PLO) plans to announce the formal resumption of talks on Saturday. The last round of peace talks broke down in late 2008, reportedly when the sides were close to an agreement. Netanyahu's predecessor, Ehud Olmert, was in office at the time. The Palestinians have refused to sit down with Netanyahu until he agrees to freeze all Jewish housing construction in the West Bank and east Jerusalem - areas they want for an independent state along with the Gaza Strip. Netanyahu has imposed a 10-month slowdown in the West Bank but has refused to include east Jerusalem in the order. The indirect talks, with Mitchell shuttling between the two sides, are seen as a compromise. Indirect talks were set to begin in March when - during a visit by Vice President Joe Biden - Israel announced plans for building new Jewish housing units in an east Jerusalem neighbourhood. The decision drew fierce criticism from the United States and led to the worst rift between the two allies in decades. The Arab League's endorsement gives Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas critical backing to sell the indirect talks to a sceptical Palestinian public. An Israeli government official said he hoped the talks would lead to direct peace negotiations that ultimately touch on all the contested issues between the parties - such as final borders, refugees and the status of Jerusalem. However Abbas' rivals in the militant Islamic Hamas movement, which seized control of Gaza from Abbas' forces nearly three years ago, rejected the Arab League endorsement. Ismail Haniyeh, Hamas leader in Gaza, told a group of workers he met at the Hamas labour ministry on Sunday that the decision by the Arab League was aimed at tricking the Palestinians to return to the negotiation table. "Regretfully, this comes during a dangerous Israeli decision which is continuation of judaising Jerusalem, continuation of building settlements and lately the decision of deporting Palestinians from their land," he said in Gaza City. In an interview with the Palestinian daily Al-Ayam, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas said President Barack Obama assured him that the Americans were "committed not to allow any provocative measures from any party" - an apparent reference to Israeli building in east Jerusalem. Municipal officials in the city claim Netanyahu has already unofficially frozen Jewish housing construction in east Jerusalem, despite his public claims to the contrary. Abbas said that despite the obstacles ahead he remained hopeful. Clients are reminded: (i) to check the terms of their licence agreements for use of content outside news programming and that further advice and assistance can be obtained from the AP Archive on: Tel +44 (0) 20 7482 7482 Email: infoaparchive.com (ii) they should check with the applicable collecting society in their Territory regarding the clearance of any sound recording or performance included within the AP Television News service (iii) they have editorial responsibility for the use of all and any content included within the AP Television News service and for libel, privacy, compliance and third party rights applicable to their Territory. APTN APEX 05-02-10 1445EDT ------------------- END -- OF -- ITEM -------------------

PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE SENATOR HILLARY CLINTON (D-NY) 3-17-08 Hillary Clinton Washington DC Major Iraq Speech 3/17/08 Togo West Sinbad story SS would not permit a sitting president to go - shew flew in on a C17 military of goods and arms of war and grunts into that she and her daughter they went around ad saw us soldiers and they met with them carried that wasa there more than happy to carry that message im here to we have serious business in this country serious challenges across this nation and we have unfinished busness we have tolect a president we have her here today I was when a young woman stood on the stage she spoke moving ly about defense abut the defense Americas children she spoke about their impordance to this nation she spoke eloquently 9:10am I want to thank secretary west I certainly do remember that trip to bosnia if a place was to small too par or too dangerous and that's where we went I remember landing under sniper fire we ran with our heads down to get to our basenot only our main base at tosla they were serving deactivate and remove landmines to hunt and seak out put down their arms and to build relationships that might lead to a piece it's a great honor to rear admiral david stone wasn an intstramental part of our successful the more than 30 generals who have endorsed me and who have I want to thank president Stephen nap for once again being the host I am getting credit for coming to GW I come here so often I want to thank at this great university I started meeting with the teshook Bernie and it was a stark remindter of how long the road is toward peace how necessart it miag be those willing to take it has been five years this week since our president took us to war in irwa our brave women in uniform they were asked to remove saddam Hussein they were asked to give the Iraqi people and they did they were asked the Iraqi government and they idd for every American solider who has made the ultimate sacrifice for this mission they gave their life to the greatest the gift of freedom to our veterans I want to send a strong and clear message your extrodinary devotion makes us proud and proufoundly grateful every single day 9:14 The mistakes in iraq are not the responsibility are not of the men and women in uniform but of our commander in chief or waring for to the denial of the xistance of a rising insurgency to the continued support of a government unwilling to make the political the command decisions were rooted in ideology fortunately twn months from now we will have a new president and a new opportunity to chane course in iraq how can we end this war responsibly and resotre it wont be easy there is no magic wand to wave bringing our troops home a president who is ready to be commander in chief on day one bringing lasting stability president with th strength and to rebuild to care for our veterans if you gi ve me the chance I will be that president I will start bnow as we hope or wish them to be President bush points to the reduction of violence and claims the surge is working but the point of the surge was the Iraqis the time and the space today h the Iraqi they have tey to apss yet even to pass a law corruption no one in When the additional surge forces wie - says that doing otherwise would endanger our progress that the surge has not accomplished its goals as we continue to police iraqs civil Cold cost over 1 trillion dollars - our ability to win Afghanistan is at stake - said welcome to our forgotten war gain new footholes as a result has our own intelligence community is growing our leadership in the world President bush is determined senator mccain will gladly a war we can not win and that in a nutshell is the bush mccain iraq policy here is the inezscapable reality we can have 100's there is no military solution to the situation in iraq at his confirmation hearing admiral mullen The commitment to staying in iraq has driven president bushs foreign policy it will not drive mine my foreign policy will be driven by what is in Americas foreign policy interest it has been my mission in the senate For the past 5 years I have served on the senatre I have been to iraq and afgh I have met with Iraqi and other influencial officials here at home I have attended countless meeting and mileatly leader 9:25 the American people don't haeve to guess or wonder if I would have to rely on advisors I have working day in day out swift demanding that the pentagon start planning for it now I have introduced legislation working to block president bush's effort to keep this war going banning for What matters is not the promises more than anything else what we have done 9:26 my democratic opponent Senator Obama holds up he didn't start working to end the war until he started running for president out campaigning he says as presient but one of his top foreign - senato robama he will not of couse or a us senator senator Obama that words matter I strongl yagree giving speeches alonge wont end the war in the end the true tes is not the speeches I have concrete detailed plans to end this war I have not wavered in my commitment one choice in this election is senator mccain you can count on him to do that byou cant count on him to do that In uncerian time you cant count on uncertain leaderhip today id like to talk about how will do that First step send message to Iraqis no more talk of permanent occupation no more doing for the Iraqis as president one of my first official actiosn convene dra- 1-2 brigades a month That is why I will also immediately - rep john murtha's reducing the length of oversees Companies like Halliburton 9:33 - contracts We have ahad a lot of talk in this town about earmarks I have said but no bid contracts are ten times more costly than earmarks when I introduced I could nto get senator mccains support to that As we bring outr troosps the reality is this war has made they are there now we can no Greater political stability right now no one doubys that the Iraqi government is failing its citizens improve the economy and better the lives these failings are in part the bush adminstratiosn the us has crate - the awkening in anbar they have failed to integrate for the national army biolence has fallen in the short run when im president we will pursue a more Uthe un that has been provided is far more likely especially when it acts the new united nations ban ki moon he is willing to play a We much address - our moral obligation assisted we will work with governments to find places for assylem seekers we will work with the UN Oil profits are showing up in foreign banksit is unavceptable these iraiqi we will support iraqs effots we will 9:40 our money or theirs work to the Iraqi government the equasion is simple we can deny the insurgents the money they need I will order a joing When I look ahead our troops serving in iraq and Afghanistan our veterans The countless veterans these men and women have made extraodrianry sacrifices by how no matter the extent no matter how grave their own injusries say promise you will take care of our buddies I have looked these men and women in the eye and I have made that promise ending this war as resposnbilt ya dn quickly as possible Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton Iraq Speech Monday, March 17, 2008 Good morning. I want to thank Secretary West for his years of service, not only as Secretary of the Army, but also to the Veteran's Administration, to our men and women in uniform, to our country. I certainly do remember that trip to Bosnia, and as Togo said, there was a saying around the White House that if a place was too small, too poor, or too dangerous, the president couldn't go, so send the First Lady. That's where we went. I remember landing under sniper fire. There was supposed to be some kind of a greeting ceremony at the airport, but instead we just ran with our heads down to get into the vehicles to get to our base. But it was a moment of great pride for me to visit our troops, not only in our main base as Tuzla, but also at two outposts where they were serving in so many capacities to deactivate and remove landmines, to hunt and seek out those who had not complied with the Dayton Accords and put down their arms, and to build relationships with the people that might lead to a peace for them and their children. So it's a great honor being introduced by Secretary West. I also want to thank rear Admiral David Stone who commanded the fleet off of Kosovo and was an instrumental part of our successful efforts there. And Brigadier General Pat Foote and Major General George Buskirk who are representing the more than 30 generals and admirals who have endorsed me and who provide great assistance and counsel to me and to my staff. I want to thank President Steven Knapp for once again being the host. I'm getting credit for coming to GW, I come so often, and I'm thrilled to have that added to my academic career. And I want to thank the faculty, the staff, and the students at this great university. I started my morning meeting with the Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern, to talk about the peace process in Northern Ireland, and it was a stark reminder of how long the road is toward peace, but how necessary it must be that we travel it. And we travel it with like-minded friends and allies and those willing to take risks for peace around the world. It has been five years this week since our president took us to war in Iraq. In that time, our brave men and women in uniform have done everything we ask of them and more. They were asked to remove Saddam Hussein from power and bring him to justice and they did. They were asked to give the Iraqi people the opportunity for free and fair elections and they did. They were asked to give the Iraqi government the space and time for political reconciliation, and they did. So for every American soldier who has made the ultimate sacrifice for this mission, we should imagine carved in stone "they gave their life for the greatest gift one can give to a fellow human being, the gift of freedom." And to our veterans and all those serving in Iraq today, I want to send a strong and clear message - your extraordinary devotion to our country and to your service makes us proud and profoundly grateful every single day. The mistakes in Iraq are not the responsibility of our men and women in uniform but of their Commander-in-Chief. From the decision to rush to war without allowing the weapons inspectors to finish their work or waiting for diplomacy to run its course. To the failure to send enough troops and provide proper equipment for them. To the denial of the existence of a rising insurgency and the failure to adjust the military strategy. To the continued support for a government unwilling to make the necessary political compromises. The command decisions were rooted in politics and ideology, heedless of sound strategy and common sense. Fortunately, ten months from now we will have a new president, and a new opportunity to change course in Iraq. Therefore, the critical question is how can we end this war responsibly and restore America's leadership in the world? It won't be easy. There is no magic wand to wave. Bringing our troops home safely will take a president who is ready to be Commander-in-Chief on day one, a president who knows our military and has earned their respect. Bringing lasting stability to the region will take a president with the strength and determination, the knowledge and confidence to bring our troops home; to rebuild our military readiness, to care for our veterans, and to redouble our efforts against al-Qaeda. If you give me the chance, I will be that president. I will start by facing the conditions on the ground in Iraq as they are, not as we hope or wish them to be. President Bush points to the reduction in violence in Iraq last year and claims the surge is working. Now, I applaud any decrease in violence. That is always good news. But the point of the surge was to give the Iraqis the time and space for political reconciliation. Yet today, the Iraqi government has failed to provide basic services for its citizens. They have yet to pass legislation ensuring the equitable distribution of oil revenues, yet even to pass a law setting the date of provincial elections. Corruption and dysfunction is rampant, and last week General Petraeus himself conceded that no one, in either the U.S. government or the Iraqi government, feels that there has been sufficient progress by any means in the area of national reconciliation. So by the middle of this summer when the additional surge forces have been sent home, we'll be right back at square one with 130,000 or more troops on the ground in Iraq. That President Bush seems to want to keep as many troops there after the surge as before and says that doing otherwise would endanger our progress is a clear admission that the surge has not accomplished its goals. Meanwhile, as we continue to police Iraq's civil war, the threats to our national security, our economy, and our standing in the world continue to mount. The lives of our brave men and women are at stake. Nearly 4,000 of them have, by now, made that ultimate sacrifice. Tens of thousands more have suffered wounds both visible and invisible to their bodies, their minds, and their hearts. Their families have sacrificed, too, in empty places at the dinner table, in the struggle to raise children alone, in the wrenching reversal of parents burying children. The strength of our military is at stake. Only one of our army brigades is certified by the army to be ready. Our armed forces are stretched to near the breaking point with many of our troops on their second, third, or fourth tours of duty. Our economic security is at stake. Taking into consideration the long-term costs of replacing equipment and providing medical care for troops and survivors' benefits for their families, the war in Iraq could ultimately cost well over $1 trillion. That is enough to provide health care for all 47 million uninsured Americans and quality pre-kindergarten for every American child, solve the housing crisis once and for all, make college affordable for every American student, and provide tax relief to tens of millions of middle class families. Our ability to win the war in Afghanistan is at stake. When I first visited Afghanistan in 2003, I was greeted by a soldier who said, "Welcome to the forgotten front line in the war on terror." Since then, the Taliban and al Qaeda have continued to gain new footholds throughout the country, and as a result, the overall terrorist threat, as our own intelligence community has noted, is growing. Finally, our leadership in the world and our ability to front global challenges, present and future, is at stake. From extremism in Pakistan, to nuclear ambitions in Iran and North Korea, to troubling antidemocratic trends in Russia and Latin America, to the threat of global epidemics and global warming and to the rise of China. The more the world regards us with suspicion rather than admiration, the more difficult it is to confront these challenges. Despite the evidence, President Bush is determined to continue his failed policy in Iraq until he leaves office. And Senator McCain will gladly accept the torch and stay the course, keeping troops in Iraq for up to 100 years if necessary. They both want to keep us tied to another country's civil war, a war we cannot win. That in a nutshell is the Bush/McCain Iraq policy. Don't learn from your mistakes, repeat them. Well, here is the inescapable reality. We can have hundreds of thousands of troops on the ground for 100 years, but that will not change the fact that there is no military solution to the situation in Iraq. And don't just take it from me. At his confirmation hearing, Admiral Mullen, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said that without national political reconciliation, no amount of troops in no amount of time will make much of a difference. We simply cannot give the Iraqi government an endless blank check. Each passing month we stay in Iraq gives the Iraqi government more time to avoid the hard decisions on how to split the oil money and how to share political power. Senator McCain and president bush claim withdrawal is defeat. Well, let's be clear, withdrawal is not defeat. Defeat is keeping troops in Iraq for 100 years. We simply cannot give the Iraqi government an endless blank check. Each passing month we stay in Iraq gives the Iraqi government more time to avoid the hard decisions on how to split the oil money and how to share political power. Senator McCain and President Bush claim withdrawal is defeat. Well, let's be clear, withdrawal is not defeat. Defeat is keeping troops in Iraq for 100 years. Defeat is straining our alliances and losing our standing in the world. Defeat is draining our resources and diverting attention from our key interests. Now, withdrawal is not risk-free, but the risks of staying in Iraq are certain. And a well-planned withdrawal is the one and only path to a political solution. The only way to spur the Iraqis to take responsibility for their own future and to ensure that we don't bear that responsibility indefinitely. The only way to spur other countries to do their part to help secure stability in the region. The commitment to staying in Iraq has driven President Bush's foreign policy. It looks like it would drive Senator McCain's foreign policy as well, but it will not drive mine. My foreign policy will be driven by what is in America's national security interests. So it is time to end this war as quickly and responsibly as possible. That has been my mission in the Senate, and it will be my mission starting on day one as president of the United States. For the past five years, I have served on the Senate Armed Services Committee. I have been to Iraq and Afghanistan three times. I have met with our soldiers and military leaders. I have met with Iraqi, local, regional, and national elected and other influential officials. Here at home I've attended countless meetings and committee hearings where I have challenged high-ranking Pentagon officials and military leaders investigating the situation in Iraq, probing the facts presented, and demanding real answers to tough questions. And I am honored that more than 30 of America's most esteemed former admirals and generals, including two former chairmen of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and five retired officers of the four-star rank have endorsed my candidacy. The American people don't have to guess whether I'm ready to lead or whether I understand the realities on the ground in Iraq or whether I'd be too dependent on advisers to help me determine the right way forward. I've been working day-in and day-out in the Senate to provide leadership to end this war. That's why I cosponsored legislation with Senator Robert Byrd to reauthorize the war, legislation that would actually end the president's authority to fight it. That's why I've started laying the ground work for a swift and responsible withdrawal beginning in early 2009 by demanding that the Pentagon start planning for it now. I've introduced legislation ensuring that Congress would be briefed on those plans and that's also why I'm working to block President Bush's effort to keep this war going after he leaves office. I've introduced legislation banning him from unilaterally negotiating a long-term security commitment to Iraq, including the possibility of permanent bases. I believe what matters in this campaign is not just the promises we've made to end the war; what matters is what we've actually done when it came time to match words with action. Because more than anything else, what we've done is an indication of what we'll do. Now, my Democratic opponent talks a great deal about a speech he gave in 2002, and I commend him for making that speech. Speaking out for what you believe is a solemn, patriotic duty. He is asking us to judge him by his words, and words can be powerful, but only if the speaker translates them into action and solutions. Senator Obama holds up his original opposition to the war on the campaign trail, but he didn't start working aggressively to end the war until he started running for president. So when he had a chance to act on his speech, he chose silence instead. And out campaigning Senator Obama tells voters that as president he'd withdraw combat brigades from Iraq within 16 months, but one of his top foreign policy advisers told a different story. She told a British television reporter, and I quote, "he will, of course, not rely on some plan that he's crafted as a presidential candidate for a U.S. Senator." Senator Obama has said often that words matter. I strongly agree. But giving speeches alone won't end the war and making campaign promises you might not keep certainly won't end it. In the end the true test is not the speeches a president delivers, it's whether the president delivers on the speeches. I have concrete, detailed plans to end this war, and I have not waivered in my commitment to follow through on them. One choice in this election is Senator McCain. He's willing to keep this war going for 100 years. You can count on him to do that. Another choice is Senator Obama who has promised to bring combat troops out in 16 months, but according to his foreign policy adviser, you can't count on him to do that. In uncertain times, we cannot afford uncertain leadership. Here's what you can count on me to do: provide the leadership to end this war quickly and responsibly. Today I'd like to talk about how I will do that, how as president, I will bring our troops home, work to bring stability in the region, and replace military force with a new diplomatic initiative to engage countries around the world in helping to secure Iraq's future. The most important part of my plan is the first step, to bring our troops home and send the strongest possible message to the Iraqis that they must take responsibly for their own future. No more talk of permanent occupation, no more policing a civil war, no more doing for the Iraqis what they need to be doing for themselves. As president, one of my first official actions will be to convene the Joint Chiefs of Staff, my Secretary of Defense and my National Security Council and direct them to draw up a clear, viable plan to start bringing our troops home within the first 60 days of my taking office. A plan based on my consultation with the military to remove one to two brigades a month, a plan that reduces the risks of attack as they depart. As we bring our troops home, I will ensure we are fully prepared to take care of them and their families once they have returned. I will direct the Department of Defense and the Department of Veteran's Affairs to prepare a comprehensive plan to provide the highest quality of health care, disability benefits, and social services for every single service member including every member of the National Guard and Reserve as well as their families, and I will make sure this plan is promptly implemented. In the Senate I'm proud to have reached across the aisle to provide access to TRICARE for all members of the National Guard and reserve, even when they're not deployed. and to have passed my heroes at home act to help family members care for those who traumatic brain injury, the signature injury of this war because I believe when brave men and women sign up to serve our country, we sign up to serve them too. That is why I will also immediately adopt Representative John Murtha's urgent proposal to reduce the strain on our troops by reducing the permissible length of overseas deployments. Going forward, we will ensure that our troops spend as much time at tome as they have spent deployed. So every month they spend in the field, they will be guaranteed one month here at home. I will also implement a proposal that I, Representative Murtha, and others have been calling for, requiring that before any brigade is deployed, the Secretary of Defense must certify to Congress that it is fully combat ready. Sending brigades that do not meet this standard puts our soldiers in danger and our mission in Iraq or elsewhere at risk. In addition to removing American troops from Iraq, I will also work to remove armed private military contractors who are conducting combat-oriented and security functions in Iraq. For five yeas their behavior and lack of supervision and accountability have often eroded our credibility, endangered U.S. and Iraqi lives and undermined our mission. Now, Senator Obama and I have a substantive disagreement here. He won't rule out continuing to use armed private military contractors in Iraq to do jobs that historically have been done by the U.S. military or government personnel. When I am president I will ask the Joint Chiefs for their help in reducing reliance on armed private military contractors. With the goal of ultimately implementing a ban on such contractors. I've already cosponsored the Stop Security Outsourcing Act requiring that security services for personnel at any U.S. diplomatic or consular mission be provided only by federal government personnel. It's also a time we put an end, once and for all, to the no-bid contracts that squander taxpayer money while lining the pockets of the president's cronies. Between 2000 and 2006, spending on no-bid contracts more than doubled, representing half of all federal procurement spending. Today companies like Halliburton are enjoying record profits thanks to a 700% increase in taxpayer funds awarded to them. But a recent congressional report identified 187 contracts valued at $1.1 trillion where federal auditors found massive overcharges, wasteful spending and poor oversight. I'm proposing legislation to ensure that all new spending in 2009 is done through competitive contracting processes. The heads of each agency would have to certify to Congress under a sworn affidavit that their contracting awards processes are open and competitive. As president, I will work to pass this legislation into law and to end the era of no-bid contracts and handouts to Halliburton. It's an interesting comparison. We've had a lot of talk in this town and elsewhere about earmarks, and I am one of those who believe we need more transparency and disclosure in the earmark process. But no-bid contracts are ten times more costly than earmarks, and when I introduce my legislation to eliminate no-bid contracts, I could not get, at least as of this moment, Senator McCain's support for that. As we bring our troops and contractors home, we cannot lose sight of our strategic interests in this region. The reality is that this war has made the terrorists stronger. Well, they may not have been in Iraq before the war, they are there now, and we cannot allow Iraq to become a breeding ground and safe haven for terrorists who seek to attack us and our friends and allies. So let me be clear - under my plan, withdrawing from Iraq will not mean retreating from fighting terrorism in Iraq. That's why I will order small, elite strike forces to engage in targeted operations against al Qaeda in Iraq. This will protect Iraqi citizens, our allies, and our families right here at home. The second part of my plan involves working to secure stability within Iraq as we bring our troops home, stability that will be key to a successful withdrawal of our troops. I believe it's really quite simple, greater political and economic stability means safer conditions for our departing troops and a smoother disengagement from our military's actions across Iraq. Right now no one doubts that the Iraqi government is failing its citizens. Government officials refuse to take the steps need to order to advance a solution, improve the economy, quell sectarian violence and better the lives of ordinary Iraqis. These failings are, in part, the fault of the Iraqis and in part due to the Bush administration's failure to match military efforts with political ones. For example, the U.S. has created an armed local security forces, such as the Awakening in Anbar and the "Concerned Local Citizens," but they fail to hold the Iraqi government to its agreement to integrate these local militias and volunteers into provincial police forces or the national army. Violence has fallen in the short run, but in the long run sectarian divisions among Iraqis may only deepen. When I'm president, we will pursue a more integrated strategy. We'll empower local leaders and use U.S. and international influence to press the Iraqis to reach political reconciliation, and I will call on the United Nations to strengthen its role in promoting this reconciliation. Not having been a party to the mistakes of the path five years, the U.N., which has already provided valuable technical assistance in Iraq, is far more likely to be viewed as a neutral, honest broker than the United States, especially when it acts on behalf of a broad coalition of concerned states and the international community. The new United Nations Secretary General, Ban Ki-moon, has indicated he is willing to play a key role in assisting the Iraqis. I will also work with China and Russia to ensure that the U.N. envoy in Iraq has the necessary authority by obtaining the Security Council's explicit endorsement of a strengthened U.N. mandate to promote reconciliation. I will also call upon the U.N. to help oversee the resettlement of the millions of refugees who have fled Iraq or have been displaced internally. Many are living in desperate conditions creating not just a humanitarian crisis but one affecting regional stability that poses direct threats to our security here at home which we must address immediately. While we focus our efforts on improving conditions so Iraqis don't have to flee in the first place, we have to recognize our moral obligation to help those we have put at risk in Iraq, the interpreters, soldiers who have assisted our troops. We will work with governments in both the Middle East and the west, including of course the United States, to find places for asylum seekers, and we will work with the U.N. to develop a plan to help them return, if possible, to Iraq once the country has stabilized. I would further seek to stabilize Iraq by insisting that the country's oil revenues, instead of U.S. taxpayer dollars, increasingly be used to fund Iraq's reconstruction. When President Bush began this war, his administration claimed that Iraqi oil revenues would pay for Iraq's reconstruction. Well, the Iraqi government has now earned tens of billions of dollars from oil. Some estimates indicate that revenues this year will top $55 billion. Yet since the beginning of the war, the U.S. has allocated roughly the same amount of money as Iraq for reconstruction, $47 billion from us versus $50 billion from them. And now it is even clearer that the Iraqi government is not spending its oil money on reconstruction. There are reports that Iraq spent less than a quarter of oil funds set aside for reconstruction in 2006, and the U.S. Comptroller General testified that as of November 2007 the capital expenditure rate for the central ministries in Iraq was only 7%. Oil profits are showing up in foreign banks even as Iraqi citizens lack basic services. As president I would immediately direct the Inspector General for Iraq to appoint a special council to investigate and make recommendations directly to me for how to ensure Iraqi oil revenues and U.S. taxpayer dollars on a declining trend are used to rebuild Iraq. It is unacceptable that these oil revenues go unused or worse end up in private accounts while citizens lack electricity and clean drinking water. We will support Iraq's efforts to rebuild their country, but we will not permit our money or theirs to be thrown away. I will work to crack down on the black market for oil in Iraq. According to recent news reports, insurgent groups a profiteering from a substantial black market in oil. The money they make is going in part to pay for IEDs, car bombs, and other tools of terror. The Iraqi government simply has not done its part to crack down on this corruption. The equation here is simple, if we cut off or disrupt these illegal sources of funding, we can deny the insurgents the money they need to maintain their campaigns of violence. So I will order a joint nationwide U.S./Iraqi crackdown on black marketers and oil smugglers. We'll beef up protection for oil lines to prevent illegal tapping and attacks. We will cut off illegal networks, identify where the stolen oil and other goods are going, who is stealing them, and capture those responsible. We will work with our international community to try to cut off access to the funds that hold these oil revenues. And we will maintain the crackdown success by sending a strong signal to the Iraqi government, show results in rooting out corruption or lose your aid. The third and final part of my plan to end the war involves replacing our military force in Iraq with an intensive diplomatic initiative in the region. Over the past four years, we've learned the hard way about the need for a truly multilateral approach in Iraq, one built on sound strategy and long-range planning, not ideology and wishful thinking. the president's go it alone strategy has diminished our position in the region and around the world, and that diminished position, in turn, has made it increasingly difficult for us to bring about a political solution. Our friends and allies in the region have an especially large stake in building a stable Iraq, but until now in part because of the Bush administration's mismanagement of the war, they have lacked leadership and gotten a free pass. That must end. Ten months from now we will have a new opportunity to reach out and engage our allies. One of my very first international meetings as president would be with our treaty allies and our friends in the region including the Gulf States, Jordan, Egypt, and our European allies. Over the course of my career I have known and worked with many of these leaders already, and I will send them a very clear message - what happens in Iraq affects all of our interests, and it is all of our responsibility. It's time we did our part and paid our fair share. I will then convene a regional stabilization group composed of these key allies, other global parties, the states bordering Iraq. The mission of this group will be to develop and implement a strategy to create a stable Iraq. I would include in this regional stabilization group Iran and Syria. We must convince all countries in the region and beyond to refrain from getting involved in the Iraqi civil war, to hold themselves and others to their past pledges to provide funding in Iraq, and to support the central role for the United Nations. These will be critical first steps toward establishing a new American approach in the world, one that draws on the strength of our alliances and the power of our diplomacy, and uses the greatest military force on earth as a last, not a first, resort. Achieving all of this will not be easy. But we don't have any choice. When I look at the road ahead, I think about the men and women in uniform whom I've had the profound honor of meeting and serving. Our troops serving not only in Iraq and Afghanistan, but across the globe. Our veterans recovering in V.A. hospitals and rehabilitation centers here at home, many with serious and life-altering injuries. The countless veterans who are not given the support and services they need to reenter civilian life. These men and women have made extraordinary sacrifices serving the country they love, and I'm always struck by how no matter the extent and severity of their suffering, no matter how grave their own injuries, they always say the same thing to me, "promise that you'll take care of my buddies. They're still over there. Promise you'll keep them safe." I have looked these men and women in the eye, and I have made that promise, and I intend to honor it by ending this war as responsibly and quickly as possible. Thank you all very, very much.

UNITED STATES HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES SELECT COMMITTEE ON BENGHAZI FULL COMMITTEE HEARING PUBLIC HEARING 4 - FORMER SECRETARY OF STATE HILLARY CLINTON Members Republicans Trey Gowdy, Chairman (SC-04) Susan Brooks (IN-05) Jim Jordan (OH-04) Mike Pompeo (KS-04) Martha Roby (AL-02) Peter Roskam (IL-06) Lynn Westmoreland (GA-03) Democrats Elijah Cummings, Ranking Member (MD-07) Adam Smith (WA-09) Adam Schiff (CA-28) Linda Sanchez (CA-38) Tammy Duckworth (IL-08) WITNESS: Former Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton 10:01:46 GOWDY: Good morning. The committee will come to order. The chair notes the presence of a quorum. Good morning. Welcome, Madam Secretary. Welcome to each of you. This is a public hearing of the Benghazi Select Committee. Just a couple of quick administrative matters before we start. Madam Secretary, there are predetermined breaks, but I want to make it absolutely clear we can take a break for any reason or for no reason. If you or anyone, just simply alert me, then we will take a break and it can be for any reason or for no reason. To our guests, we are happy to have you here. The witness deserves to hear the questions and the members deserve to hear the answers. So proper decorum must be observed at all times -- no reaction to questions or answers, no disruptions. Some committees take an incremental approach to decorum. I do not. This is your one and only notice. Madam Secretary, the ranking member and I will give opening statements and then you will be recognized for your opening statement. And then after that, the members will alternate from one side to the other. And because you have already been sworn, we will go straight to your opening. So I will now recognize myself and then recognize Mr. Cummings, and then you, Madam Secretary. 10:03:03 Chris Stevens, Sean Smith, Glen Doherty and Tyrone Woods served this country with courage and with honor. And they were killed under circumstances that most of us could never imagine. Terrorists poured through the front gate of an American facility, attacking people and property with machine guns, mortars, and fire. It is important that we remember how these four men died. It is equally important that we remember how these four men lived and why. They were more than four images on a television screen. They were husbands and fathers and sons and brothers and family and friends. They were Americans who believed in service and sacrifice. Many people speak wistfully of a better world, but do little about it. These four went out and actually tried to make it better and it cost them their lives. So we know what they gave us. What do we owe them? 10:04:18 GOWDY: Justice for those that killed them. We owe their families our everlasting gratitude, respect. We owe them and each other the truth -- the truth about why we were in Libya, the truth about what we were doing in Libya, the truth about the escalating violence in Libya before we were attacked and these four men were killed, the truth about requests for additional security, the truth about requests for additional personnel, the truth about requests for additional equipment, the truth about where and why our military was positioned as it was on the anniversary of 9/11, the truth about what was happening and being discussed in Washington while our people were under attack, the truth about what led to the attacks, and the truth about what our government told the American people after the attacks. Why were there so many requests for more security personnel and equipment, and why were those requests denied in Washington? Why did the State Department compound and facility not even come close to meeting proper security specifications? What policies were we pursuing in Libya that required a physical presence in spite of the escalating violence? Who in Washington was aware of the escalating violence? What precautions, if any, were taken on the anniversary of 9/11? What happened in Washington after the first attack? And what was our response to that attack? What did the military do or not do? What did our leaders in Washington do or not do, and when? Why was the American public given such divergent accounts of what caused these attacks, and why is it so hard to get information from the very government these four men represented, served and sacrificed for? Even after an Accountability Review Board and a half dozen congressional investigations, these and other questions still lingered. These questions linger, because previous investigations were thorough. These questions lingered because those previous investigations were narrow in scope, and either incapable or unwilling to access the facts and evidence necessary to answer all relevant questions. So the House of Representatives, including some Democrats I hasten to add, asked this committee to write the final accounting of what happened in Benghazi. This committee is the first committee to review more than 50,000 pages of documents, because we insisted that they be produced. This committee is the first committee to demand access to more eyewitnesses, because serious investigations talk to as many eyewitnesses as possible. This committee is the first committee to thoroughly and individually interview scores of other witnesses, many of them for the first time. This committee is the first committee to review thousands of pages of documents from top State Department personnel. This committee is the first committee to demand access to relevant documents from the CIA, the FBI , the Department Of Defense and even the White House. This committee is the first committee to demand access to the emails to and from Ambassador Chris Stevens. How could an investigation possibly be considered serious without reviewing the emails of the person most knowledgeable about Libya? 10:07:57 This committee is the first committee, the only committee, to uncover the fact that Secretary Clinton exclusively used personnel e- mail on her own personal server for official business and kept the public record, including emails about Benghazi and Libya, in her own custody and control for almost two years after she left office. You will hear a lot today about the Accountability Review Board. Secretary Clinton has mentioned it more than 70 times in her previous testimony before Congress. But when you hear about the ARB, you should know the State Department leadership hand picked the members of the ARB. The ARB never interviewed Secretary Clinton. The ARB never reviewed her emails. And Secretary Clinton's top adviser was allowed to review and suggest changes to the ARB before the public ever saw it. There's no transcript of ARB interviews. So, it's impossible to mow whether all relevant questions were asked and answered. Because there's no transcript, it is also impossible to cite the ARB interviews with any particularity at all. That is not independent. That is not accountability. That is not a serious investigation. You will hear there were previous congressional investigations into Benghazi. And that is true. It should make you wonder why those investigations failed to interview so many witnesses and access so many documents. If those previous congressional investigations were really serious and thorough, how did they miss Ambassador Stevens' emails? If those previous investigations were serious and thorough, how did they miss Secretary Clinton's emails? If those congressional investigations really were serious and thorough, why did they fail to interview dozens of key State Department witnesses, including agents on the ground who experienced the attacks firsthand? 10:09:55 GOWDY: Just last month, three years after Benghazi, top aides finally returned documents to the State Department. A month ago, this committee received 1,500 new pages of Secretary Clinton's emails related to Libya and Benghazi, three years after the attacks. A little over two weeks ago, this committee received nearly 1,400 pages of Ambassador Stevens' emails, three years after the attacks. It is impossible to conduct a serious fact-centric investigation without access to the documents from the former Secretary of State, the ambassador who knew more about Libya than anybody else and testimony from witnesses who survived the attacks. 10:10:40 Madam Secretary, I understand there are people frankly in both parties who have suggested that this investigation is about you. Let me assure you it is not. And let me assure you why it is not. This investigation is about four people who were killed representing our country on foreign soil. It is about what happened before, during and after the attacks that killed them. It is about what this country owes to those who risk their lives to serve it. And it is about the fundamental obligation of government to tell the truth always to the people that it purports to represent. Madam Secretary, not a single member of this committee signed up to investigate you or your email. We signed up to investigate and therefore honor the lives of four people that we sent into a dangerous country to represent us. And to do everything we can to prevent it from happening to others. Our committee has interviewed half a 100 witnesses. Not a single one of them has been named Clinton until today. You were the secretary of state for this country at all relevant times. So, of course, the committee is going to want to talk to you. You are an important witness. You are one important witness among half a hundred important witnesses. And I do understand you wanted to come sooner than today. So let me be clear why that did not happen. 10:12:24 You had an unusual email arrangement which meant the State Department could not produce your emails to us. You made exclusive use of personal email and a personal server. And when you left the State Department, you kept the public record to yourself for almost two years. And it was you and your attorneys who decided what to return and what to delete. Those decisions were your decisions, not our decisions. It was only in March of this year we learned of this email arrangement. And since we learned of this email arrangement, we have interviewed dozens of witnesses, only one of whom was solely related to your email arrangement. And that was the shortest interview of all, because that witness invoked his fifth amendment privilege against incrimination. Making sure the public record is complete is what we serious investigations do. It's important and remains important that this committee have access to all of Ambassador Stevens' emails, the emails of senior leaders and witnesses and it is important to gain access to all of your emails, Madam Secretary. Your emails are no less or no more important than the emails of anyone else. It just took us a little bit longer to get them and it garnered a little more attention in the process. I want you to take note during this hearing how many times congressional Democrats call on this administration to make long awaited documents available to us. They won't. Take note of how many witnesses congressional Democrats ask us to schedule for interview. They won't. We would be closer to finding out what happened and writing the final definitive report if Democrats on this committee had helped us just a little bit pursue the facts. But if the Democrats on this committee had their way, dozens of witnesses never would have been interviewed, your public record would still be private. Thousands of documents would never be accessed and we wouldn't have the emails of our own ambassador. That may be smart politics, but it is a lousy way to run a serious investigation. There are certain characteristics that make our country unique in the annals of history. We are the greatest experiment in self- governance the world has ever known, and part of that self-governance comes self-scrutiny, even of the highest officials. 10:15:05 GOWDY: Our country is strong enough to handle the truth and our fellow citizens expect us to pursue the truth wherever the facts take us. So this committee is going to do what we pledged to do and what should have been done, frankly, a long time ago, which is interview all relevant witnesses, examine all relevant evidence, and access all relevant documents. And we're going to pursue the truth in a manner worthy of the memory of the four people who lost their lives and worthy of the respect of our fellow citizens. And we are going to write that final definitive accounting of what happened in Benghazi. We would like to do it with your help and the help of our Democrat colleagues, but make no mistake, we are going to do it nonetheless. Because understanding what happened in Benghazi goes to the heart of who we are as a country and the promises we make to those that we send into harm's way. They deserve the truth. They deserve the whole truth. They deserve nothing but the truth. The people we work for deserve the truth. The friends and family of the four who lost their lives deserve the truth. We're going to find the truth because there is no statute of limitations on the truth. With that, I would recognize my friend my Maryland. 10:16:38 CUMMINGS: The truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. The truth, the whole truth and nothing but the truth. Madam Secretary, I want to thank you very much for being here today to testify before Congress on this very important issue. This is your third time. This week, our chairman, Mr. Gowdy, was interviewed in a lengthy media profile. During his interview, he complained that he was, and I quote, he "has an impossible job." That's what the chairman said -- "impossible job." He said it's impossible to conduct a serious, fact-centric investigation in such a, quote, "political environment." I have great respect for the chairman, but on this score he is absolutely wrong. In fact, it has been done by his own Republican colleagues in the House on this very issue, Benghazi. The Republican chairman of the House Intelligence Committee conducted an extensive, bipartisan, two-year investigation and issued a detailed report. The Senate Intelligence Committee and the Senate Homeland Security Committee also conducted a bipartisan investigation. Those bipartisan efforts respected and honored the memories of the four brave Americans who gave their lives in Benghazi: Ambassador Chris Stevens, Sean Smith, Tyrone Woods and Glen Doherty. The problem is that the Republican caucus did not like the answers they got from those investigations, so they set up this select committee with no rules, no deadline, and an unlimited budget. And they set them loose, Madam Secretary, because you're running for president. Clearly, it is possible to conduct a serious, bipartisan investigation. What is impossible is for any reasonable person to continue denying that Republicans are squandering millions of taxpayer dollars on this abusive effort to derail Secretary Clinton's presidential campaign. In the chairman's interview, he tried to defend against this criticism by attempting to cast himself as the victim. And he complained about attacks on the credibility of the select committee. 10:19:48 CUMMINGS: His argument would be more compelling if Republicans weren't leading the charge. As we all know, Representative Kevin McCarthy, Speaker Boehner's second in command and the chairman's close friend admitted that they established the select committee to drive down Secretary Clinton's poll numbers. Democrats didn't say that. The second in command in the House said that, a Republican. Republican Congressman Richard Hanna said the Select Committee was, quote, "designed -- designed to go after Secretary Clinton." And one of the chairman's own, hand-picked investigators, a self- proclaimed conservative Republican, charged that he was fired in part for not going along with these plans to, quote, "hyper-focus on Hillary Clinton," end of quote. These stark admissions reflect exactly what we have seen inside the Select Committee for the past year. Let's just look at the facts. Since January, Republicans have canceled every single hearing on our schedule for the entire year except for this one, Secretary Clinton. They also canceled numerous interviews that they had planned with the Defense Department and the CIA officials. Instead of doing that, they said they were going -- what they were going to do, Republicans zeroed in on Secretary Clinton, her speech writers, her I.T. staffers and her campaign officials. This is what the Republicans did, not the Democrats. When Speaker Boehner established this Select Committee, he justified it by arguing that it would, quote, "cross jurisdictional lines." I assume he meant we would focus on more than just secretary of State. But, Madam Secretary, you are sitting there by yourself. The Secretary Of Defense is not on your left. The director of the CIA is not on your right. That's because Republicans abandoned their own plans to question those top officials. So, instead of being cross jurisdictional, Republicans just crossed them off the list. Last weekend, the chairman told the Republican colleagues to shut up and stop talking about the Select Committee. What I want to know is this. And this is a key question. Why tell the Republicans to shut up when they are telling the truth, but not when they are attacking Secretary Clinton with reckless accusations that are demonstrably false? Why not tell them to shut up then? Carly Fiorina has said that Secretary Clinton has blood on her hands. Mike Huckabee accused her of ignoring the warning calls from dying Americans in Benghazi. Senator Ryan Paul said Benghazi was a 3 a.m. phone call that she never picked up. And Senator Lindsey Graham tweeted, where the hell were you on the night of the Benghazi attack? Everyone on this panel knows these accusations are baseless, from our own investigation and all those before it. Yet Republican members of this Select Committee remain silent. On Monday, the Democrats issued a report showing that none of the 54 witnesses the committee interviewed substantiated these wild Republican claims. Secretary Clinton did not order the military to stand down, and she neither approved nor denied requests for additional security. I ask our report be included in the official report for the hearing. Mr. Chairman. GOWDY: Without objection. 10:24:15 CUMMINGS: What is so telling is that we issued virtually the same report a year ago. Same report. When we first joined the Select Committee, I asked my staff to put together a complete report and database setting forth the questions that have been asked about the attacks and all of the answers that were provided in the eight previous investigations. I asked that this report also be included in the record, Mr. Chairman. GOWDY: Without objection. 10:24:52 CUMMINGS: The problem is that rather than accepting these facts, Republicans continue to spin new conspiracy theories that are just as outlandish and inaccurate. For example, the chairman recently tried to argue that Sidney Blumenthal was Secretary Clinton's adviser on Libya. And this past Sunday, Representative Pompeo claimed on national television that Secretary Clinton relied on Sidney Blumenthal for most of her intelligence on Libya. Earlier this week, the Washington Post fact checker awarded this claim four Pinocchios, its worst rating. Here is the bottom line. The Select Committee has spent 17 months and $4.7 million of taxpayer money. We have held four hearings and conducted 54 interviews and depositions. Yes, we have received some new emails from Secretary Clinton, Ambassador Stevens and others. And yes, we have conducted some new interviews. But these documents and interviews do not show any nefarious activity. In fact, it's just the opposite. The new information we obtained confirms and corroborates the core facts we already knew from eight previous investigations. They provide more detail, but they do not change the basic conclusions. It is time -- it is time, and it is time now, for the Republicans to end this taxpayer-funded fishing expedition. We need to come together and shift from politics to policy. That's what the American people want, shifting from politics to policy. We need to finally make good on our promises to the families. And the families only asked us to do three things. One, do not make this a political football. Two, find the facts. Three, do everything in your power to make sure that this does not happen again. And so we need to start focusing on what we here in Congress can do to improve the safety and security of our diplomatic corps in the future. And with that, Mr. Chairman, I yield back. GOWDY: The chair thanks the gentleman from Maryland. Madam Secretary, you are recognized for your opening statement. 10:27:28 CLINTON: Thank you Mr. Chairman, Ranking Member Cummings, members of this committee. The terrorist attacks at our diplomatic compound and later, at the CIA post in Benghazi, Libya, on September 11, 2012, took the lives of four brave Americans, Ambassador Chris Stevens, Sean Smith, Glen Doherty And Tyrone Woods. I'm here to honor the service of those four men. The courage of the Diplomatic Security Agency and the CIA officers who risked their lives that night. And the work their colleagues do every single day all over the world. I knew and admired Chris Stevens. He was one of our nation's most accomplished diplomats. Chris' mother liked to say he had "sand in his shoes," because he was always moving, always working, especially in the Middle East that he came to know so well. When the revolution broke out in Libya, we named Chris as our envoy to the opposition. There was no easy way to get him into Benghazi to begin gathering information and meeting those Libyans who were rising up against the murderous dictator Gadhafi. But he found a way to get himself there on a Greek cargo ship, just like a 19th- century American envoy. But his work was very much 21st-century, hard-nosed diplomacy. 10:29:21 CLINTON: It is a testament to the relationships that he built in Libya that on the day following the awareness of his death, tens of thousands of Libyans poured into the streets in Benghazi. They held signs reading, "Thugs don't represent Benghazi or Islam," "Sorry, people of America, this is not the behavior of our Islam or our prophet," "Chris Stevens, a friend to all Libyans." Although I didn't have the privilege of meeting Sean Smith personally, he was a valued member of our State Department family. An Air Force veteran, he was an information management officer who had served in Pretoria, Baghdad, Montreal and the Hague. Tyrone Woods and Glen Doherty worked for the CIA. They were killed by mortar fire at the CIA's outpost in Benghazi, a short distance from the diplomatic compound. They were both former Navy SEALs and trained paramedics with distinguished records of service including in Iraq and Afghanistan. 10:31:05 As secretary of State, I had the honor to lead and the responsibility to support nearly 70,000 diplomats and development experts across the globe. Losing any one of them, as we did in Iraq, Afghanistan, Mexico, Haiti and Libya, during my tenure was deeply painful for our entire State Department and USAID family and for me personally. I was the one who asked Chris to go to Libya as our envoy. I was the one who recommended him to be our ambassador to the president. After the attacks, I stood next to President Obama as Marines carried his casket and those of the other three Americans off the plane at Andrews Air Force Base. I took responsibility, and as part of that, before I left office, I launched reforms to better protect our people in the field and help reduce the chance of another tragedy happening in the future. What happened in Benghazi has been scrutinized by a non-partisan hard-hitting Accountability Review Board, seven prior congressional investigations, multiple news organizations and, of course, our law enforcement and intelligence agencies. So today, I would like to share three observations about how we can learn from this tragedy and move forward as a nation. 10:37:56 First, America must lead in a dangerous world, and our diplomats must continue representing us in dangerous places. The State Department sends people to more than 270 posts in 170 countries around the world. Chris Stevens understood that diplomats must operate in many places where our soldiers do not, where there are no other boots on the ground and safety is far from guaranteed. In fact, he volunteered for just those assignments. He also understood we will never prevent every act of terrorism or achieve perfect security and that we inevitably must accept a level of risk to protect our country and advance our interests and values. And make no mistake, the risks are real. Terrorists have killed more than 65 American diplomatic personnel since the 1970s and more than 100 contractors and locally employed staff. Since 2001, there have been more than 100 attacks on U.S. diplomatic facilities around the world. But if you ask our most experienced ambassadors, they'll tell you they can't do their jobs for us from bunkers. It would compound the tragedy of Benghazi if Chris Stevens' death and the death of the other three Americans ended up undermining the work to which he and they devoted their lives. We have learned the hard way when America is absent, especially from unstable places, there are consequences. Extremism take root, aggressors seek to fill the vacuum and security everywhere is threatened, including here at home. That's why Chris was in Benghazi. It's why he had served previously in Syria, Egypt, Saudi Arabia and Jerusalem during the second intifada. Nobody knew the dangers of Libya better. A weak government, extremist groups, rampant instability. But Chris chose to go to Benghazi because he understood America had to be represented there at that pivotal time. He knew that eastern Libya was where the revolution had begun and that unrest there could derail the country's fragile transition to democracy. And if extremists gained a foothold, they would have the chance to destabilize the entire region, including Egypt and Tunisia. He also knew how urgent it was to ensure that the weapons Gadhafi had left strewn across the country, including shoulder-fired missiles that could knock an airplane out of the sky, did not fall into the wrong hands. The nearest Israeli airport is just a day's drive from the Libyan border. Above all, Chris understood that most people in Libya or anywhere reject the extremists' argument that violence can ever be a path to dignity or justice. That's what those thousands of Libyans were saying after they learned of his death. And he understood there was no substitute for going beyond the embassy walls and doing the hard work of building relationships. 10:37:15 Retreat from the world is not an option. America cannot shrink from our responsibility to lead. That doesn't mean we should ever return to the go-it-alone foreign policy of the past, a foreign policy that puts boots on the ground as a first choice rather than a last resort. Quite the opposite. We need creative, confident leadership that harnesses all of America's strengths and values, leadership that integrates and balances the tools of diplomacy, development and defense. And at the heart of that effort must be dedicated professionals like Chris Stevens and his colleagues who put their lives on the line for a country, our country, because they believed, as I do, that America is the greatest force for peace and progress the world has ever known. My second observation is this. We have a responsibility to provide our diplomats with the resources and support they need to do their jobs as safely and effectively as possible. After previous deadly attacks, leaders from both parties and both branches of government came together to determine what went wrong and how to fix it for the future. That's what happened during the Reagan administration, when Hezbollah attacked our embassy and killed 63 people, including 17 Americans, and then in a later attack attacked our Marine barracks and killed so many more. Those two attacks in Beirut resulted in the deaths of 258 Americans. It's what happened during the Clinton administration, when Al Qaida bombed our embassies in Kenya and Tanzania, killing more than 200 people, wounding more than 2,000 people and killing 12 Americans. And it's what happened during the Bush administration after 9/11. Part of America's strength is we learn, we adapt and we get stronger. 10:39:53 CLINTON: After the Benghazi attacks, I asked Ambassador Thomas Pickering, one of our most distinguished and longest serving diplomats, along with Admiral Mike Mullen , the former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff -- appointed by President George W. Bush -- to lead an accountability review board. This is an institution that the Congress set up after the terrible attacks in Beirut. There have been 18 previous accountability review boards. Only two have ever made any of their findings public -- the one following the attacks on our embassies in East Africa, and the one following the attack on Benghazi. The accountability review board did not pull a single punch. They sound systemic problems and management deficiencies in two State Department bureaus. And the review board recommended 29 specific improvements. I pledged that by the time I left office, every one would be on the way to implementation and they were. More Marines were slated for deployment to high-threat embassies. Additional diplomatic security agents were being hired and trained. And Secretary Kerry has continued this work. But there is more to do and no administration can do it alone. Congress has to be our partner, as it has been after previous tragedies. For example, the accountability review board and subsequent investigations have recommended improved training for our officers before they deploy to the field. But efforts to establish a modern joint training center are being held up by Congress. The men and women who serve our country deserve better. 10:41:56 Finally, there is one more observation I'd like to share. I traveled to 112 countries as secretary of state. Every time I did, I felt great pride and honor representing the country that I love. We need leadership at home to match our leadership abroad, leadership that puts national security ahead of politics and ideology. Our nation has a long history of bipartisan cooperation on foreign policy and national security. Not that we always agree, far from it, but we do come together when it counts. As secretary of state, I worked with the Republican chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee to pass a landmark nuclear arms control treaty with Russia. I worked with the Republican leader, Senator Mitch McConnell, to open up Burma, now Myanmar, to democratic change. I know it's possible to find common ground because I have done it. We should debate on the basis of fact, not fear. We should resist denigrating the patriotism or loyalty of those with whom we disagree. So I'm here. Despite all the previous investigations and all the talk about partisan agendas, I'm here to honor those we lost and to do what I can to aid those who serve us still. My challenge to you, members of this committee, is the same challenge I put to myself. Let's be worthy of the trust the American people have bestowed upon us. They expect us to lead, to learn the right lessons, to rise above partisanship and to reach for statesmanship. That's what I tried to do every day as secretary of state and it's what I hope we will all strive for here today and into the future. Thank you. 10:44:02 GOWDY: Thank you, Madam Secretary. I did not cut off your opening at all, nor would I think about doing so because the subject matter is critically important and you deserve to be heard. I would just simply note that, and I don't plan on cutting off any of your answers -- our members have questions that we believe are worthy of being answered, so I would just simply note that we do plan to ask all of the questions, and whatever precision and concision that you can give to the answers, without giving short shrift to any of the answers, would be much appreciated. And with that, I would recognize the gentleman from Illinois, Mr. Roskam. 10:44:44 ROSKAM: Good morning, Secretary Clinton. Jake Sullivan, your chief foreign policy adviser, wrote a tick - tock on Libya memo on August 21, 2011. And this was the day before the rebels took Tripoli. He titles it, quote, "Secretary Clinton's Leadership on Libya," in which he describes you as, quote, "a critical voice" and, quote, "the public face of the U.S. effort in Libya and instrumental in tightening the noose around Gadhafi and his regime." But that didn't come easy, did it? Because you faced considerable opposition, and I can pause while you're reading your notes from your staff. 10:45:22 CLINTON: One thing at a time, Congressman. ROSKAM: OK. That didn't come easy, did it, that leadership role and that public face and so forth that I just mentioned? 10:45:37 CLINTON: (OFF-MIKE) this is an issue that the committee has raised. And it really boils down to why were we in Libya; why did the United States join with our NATO and European allies, join with our Arab partners to protect the people of Libya against the murderous planning of Gadhafi. Why did we take a role alongside our partners in doing so. There were a number of reasons for that. And I think it is important to remind the American people where we were at the time when the people of Libya, like people across the region, rose up demanding freedom and democracy, a chance to chart their own futures. And Gadhafi... ROSKAM: I take your point. 10:46:23 CLINTON: ... Gadhafi threatened them with genocide, with hunting them down like cockroaches. And we were then approached by, with great intensity, our closest allies in Europe, people who felt very strongly -- the French and the British, but others as well -- that they could not stand idly by and permit that to happen so close to their shores, with the unintended consequences that they worried about. And they asked for the United States to help. We did not immediately say yes. We did an enormous amount of due diligence in meeting with not only our European and Arab partners, but also with those were heading up what was called the Transitional National Council. And we had experienced diplomats who were digging deep into what was happening in Libya and what the possibilities were, before we agreed to provide very specific, limited help to the European and Arab efforts. We did not put one American soldier on the ground. We did not have one casualty. And in fact, I think by many measures, the cooperation between NATO and Arab forces was quite remarkable and something that we want to learn more lessons from. 10:47:42 ROSKAM: Secretary Clinton, you were meeting with opposition within the State Department from very senior career diplomats in fact. And they were saying that it was going to produce a net negative for U.S. military intervention. For example, in a March 9th, 2011 email discussing what has become known as the Libya options memo, Ambassador Stephen Mull, then the executive secretary of the State Department and one of the top career diplomats, said this, "In the case of our diplomatic history, when we've provided material or tactical military support to people seeking to drive their leaders from power, no matter how just their cause, it's tended to produce net negatives for our interests over the long term in those countries." Now, we'll come back to that in a minute. But you overruled those career diplomats. I mean, they report to you and you're the chief diplomat of the United States. Go ahead and read the note if you need to. (CLINTON LAUGHTER) 10:48:39 CLINTON: I have to -- I have to... ROSKAM: I'm not done with my question. I'm just giving you the courtesy of reading your notes. CLINTON: That's all right. ROSKAM: All right. 10:48:51 They were -- they were pushing back, but you overcame those objections. But then you had another big obstacle, didn't you, and that was -- that was the White House itself. There were senior voices within the White House that were opposed to military action -- Vice President Biden, Department of Defense, Secretary Gates, the National Security Council and so forth. But you persuaded President Obama to intervene militarily. Isn't that right? 10:49:21 CLINTON: Well, Congressman, I think it's important to point out there were many in the State Department who believed it was very much in America's interests and in furtherance of our values to protect the Libyan people, to join with our European allies and our Arab partners. The ambassador, who had had to be withdrawn from Libya because of direct attacks -- or direct threats to his physical safety, but who knew Libya very well, Ambassador Cretz, was a strong advocate for doing what we could to assist the Europeans and the Arabs. 10:49:52 CLINTON: I think it's fair to say there were concerns and there were varying opinions about what to do, how to do it, and the like. At the end of the day, this was the president's decision. And all of us fed in our views. I did not favor it until I had done, as I said, the due diligence speaking with not just people within our government and within the governments of all of the other nations who were urging us to assist them, but also meeting in-person with the gentleman who had assumed a lead role in the Transitional National Council. So it is of course fair to say this is a difficult decision. I wouldn't sit here and say otherwise. And there were varying points of view about it. But at the end of the day, in large measure, because of the strong appeals from our European allies, the Arab League passing resolution urging that the United States and NATO join with them, those were unprecedented requests. And we did decide in recommending to the president there was a way to do it. The president I think, very clearly had a limited instruction about how to proceed. And the first planes that flew were French planes. And I think what the United States provided was some of our unique capacity. But the bulk of the work militarily was done by Europeans and Arabs. 10:51:22 ROSKAM: Well I think you are underselling yourself. You got the State Department on board. You convinced the president, you overcame the objections of Vice President Biden and Secretary of Defense Gates, the National Security Council. And you had another obstacle then, and that was the United Nations. And you were able to persuade the Russians, of all things, to abstain, and had you not been successful in arguing that abstention, the Security Council Resolution 1973 wouldn't have passed because the Russians had a veto. So you overcame that obstacle as well, right? Isn't that right? 10:51:57 CLINTON: Well congressman, it is right that doing my due diligence and reviewing the various options and the potential consequences of pursuing each of them, I was in favor of the United States joining with our European allies and our air partners and I also was in favor of obtaining U.N. Security Council support because I thought that would provide greater legitimacy. And that of course, our ambassador to the U.N. was very influential and successful in making the case to her colleagues. But this was at the behest of the president once he was presented with the varying argument. ROSKAM: And you presented the argument... 10:52:37 CLINTON: Congressman, I have been in a number of situation room discussions. I remember very well, the very intense conversation over whether or not to launch the Navy SEALS against the compound we thought in (inaudible) that might house bin Laden. There was a split in the advisers around the president. Eventually the president makes the decision. I supported doing what we could to support our European and Arab partners in their effort on a humanitarian basis, a strategic basis, to prevent Gadhafi from launching and carrying massacres. ROSKAM: There was another obstacle that you overcame and that was the Arabs themselves. Jake Sullivan sent you an email, and he said this, "I think you should call. It will be a painful 10 minutes. But you will be the one who delivered Arab support." And that's a Jake Sullivan email of March 17th to you asking you to call the secretary general of the Arab League. So to put this in totality, you were able to overcome opposition within the State Department. You were able to persuade the president. You were able to persuade the United Nations and the international community. You made the call to the Arabs and brought them home. You saw it. You drove it. You articulated it. And you persuaded people. Did I get that wrong? 10:54:01 CLINTON: Well, congressman, I was the secretary of state. My job was to conduct the diplomacy. And the diplomacy consisted of a long series of meetings and phone calls both here in our country and abroad to take the measure of what people were saying and whether they meant it. We had heard sometimes before from countries saying, well, the United States should go do this. And when we would say, well, what would you do in support of us, there was not much coming forth. This time, if they wanted us to support them in what they saw as an action vital respective to their respective national security interests, I wanted to be sure they were going to bear the bulk of the load. And in fact, they did. What the United States did, as I said, was use our unique capacities. As I recall, if you want if you monetary terms, slightly over a billion dollars or less than we spend in Iraq in one day, is what the United States committed in support of our allies. We asked our allies to do a lot for us Congressman, they had asked is for us to help them. ROSKAM: My time is expiring. Let me reclaim my time. Let me reclaim my time because it's expiring. Actually, you summed it up best when you emailed your senior staff and you said of this interchange, you said, "It's good to remind ourselves and the rest of the world that this couldn't have happened without us." And you were right, Secretary Clinton. Our Libya policy be couldn't have happened without you because you were its chief architect. And I said we were going to go back to Ambassador Mulls' warning about using military for regime change, and he said, "Long-term things weren't going to turn out very well. And he was right. After your plan, things in Libya today are a disaster. I yield back. 10:55:45 CLINTON: Well, we'll have more time I'm sure to talk about this because that's not a view that I will ascribe to. GOWDY: Thank the gentleman from Illinois and I recognize the gentleman from Maryland. 10:55:54 CUMMINGS: Thank you very much Madam secretary, and again I want to thank you for being here. I want to start with the No. 1 question that Republicans claim has not been answered in eight previous investigations. Yesterday the chairman wrote an op-ed and he said, this is his top unanswered question about Benghazi. And it is, and I quote, "Why our people in Libya and Benghazi made so many requests for additional security personnel and equipment and why those requests were denied?" I'll give you a chance to answer in a minute. Secretary Clinton, as you know, this exact question has been asked many times and answered many times. Let's start with the accountability review board. Now you, a moment ago you talked about Admiral Mullen. But you also appointed another very distinguished gentlemen, Ambassador Pickering. And of course Admiral Mullen served under Republican administrations. And Ambassador Pickering, who I have a phenomenal amount of respect for, served 40 years, as you know, as part of our diplomatic core. He served under George H.W. Bush and also served as U.N. Ambassador under -- he also served under Reagan. Now, I'm just wondering -- let me go back to that question. Why our people in Libya and Benghazi made so many requests, and then, I want you to comment. There seems to be an implication that the ARB, Accountability Review Board, was not independent. And I think the chairman said they were hand-picked by you, of course, that's done by law. But I'm just -- would you comment on those two things, please? 10:58:03 CLINTON: Yes. I'd be happy to. Now, as I said in my opening statement, I take responsibility for what happened in Benghazi. I felt a responsibility for all 70,000 people working at the State Department in USAID . I take that very seriously. As I said with respect to security requests in Benghazi back when I testified in January 2013, those requests and issues related to security were rightly handled by the security professionals in the department. I did not see them. I did not approve them. I did not deny them. Ambassador Pickering and Admiral Mullen make this case very clearly in their testimony before your committee and in their public comments. These issues would not ordinarily come before the secretary of state. And they did not in this case. As secretary, I was committed to taking aggressive measures to ensure our personnel's and facilities were as safe as possible. And certainly when the nonpartisan critical report from the accountability review board came forward, I took it very seriously. And that's why I embraced all of their recommendations and created a new position within the Diplomatic Security Bureau specifically to evaluate high- risk posts. 10:59:43 CLINTON: I think it's important also to mention, Congressman, that the Diplomatic Security professionals who were reviewing these requests, along with those who are serving in war zones and hot spots around the world, have great expertise and experience in keeping people safe. If you go on CODELs, they are the ones who plan your trip to keep you safe. They certainly did that for me. But most importantly, that's what they do every day for everybody who serves our country as a diplomat or development professional. And I was not going to second-guess them. I was not going to substitute my judgment, which is not based on experience that they have in keeping people safe, for theirs. And the changes that were recommended by the accountability review board are ones that we thought made sense and began quickly to implement. 11:00:40 CUMMINGS: Now, the ARB., after conducting, Madam Secretary, more than 100 interviews, identifies a specific employee at the State Department who denied these requests. It was Deputy Assistant Secretary Of The Bureau Of Diplomatic Security Charlene Lamb. And again, she did come before the Oversight Committee. The ARB report was very critical of her. It was also critical of her two supervisors. Principal deputy assistant secretary and the assistant secretary for Diplomatic Security. The Oversight Committee found the same answer as the ARB. It found that this official denied these requests. It found no evidence that you approved or denied them. The problem is Republicans just keep asking the same question over and over again, and pretend they don't know the answer. In 2013, the Republican chairman of five House committees issued a report falsely accusing you personally of denying these requests cable (ph) over your signature. The next day, the next day, the chairman of the Oversight Committee Darrell Issa, went on national television and accused you of the same thing. Can we play that clip, please? 11:02:11 (BEGIN VIDEO CLIP) REP. DARRELL ISSA, R-CALIF.: Secretary of State was just wrong. She said she did not participate in this. And yet only a few months before the attack, she outright denied security in her signature in April 2014. (END VIDEO CLIP) 11:02:37 CUMMINGS: Do you remember that, Madam Secretary? CLINTON: I do. 11:02:41 CUMMINGS: Well, when the Washington Post fact checker examined this claim, they gave it four Pinocchios. They called it a whopper. It turns out, that the Republicans had a copy of that cable, but didn't tell the American people that your so-called signature was just a stamp that appeared on millions of cables from the State Department every single year. Is that right? CLINTON: That's correct. 11:03:08 CUMMINGS: Now, Madam Secretary, my goal has always been to gather facts and to defend the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. Last year, I asked our staff to compile an asked and answered database. And this particular issue was answered thoroughly. On Monday, we put out another report and this issue was addressed yet again. But the Republicans want to keep this attack going, so they are now trying to argue that we have new emails that raise new questions. The truth is that we have reviewed these emails, and they don't contradict previous conclusions. They confirm them. They corroborate them. We have reviewed emails from Ambassador Stevens. And they show that he asked Charleston Lamb for more security. Nothing we have obtained, not the new interviews or the new emails changes the basic fact we have known for three years. Secretary Clinton, let me ask one final question, and please take as much time as you want to answer this. There is no evidence to support the Republican claims that you personally rejected security requests. So, some have a argued that since you knew the danger was increasing in Libya, you should have been in there making detailed decisions about whether this would be 5, 7, or even 9 security officers at any given post. Madam Secretary, I know you have answered it over again. You might just want to elaborate and just I'll give you -- I have a minute and seven seconds. 11:04:49 CLINTON: Well, thank you, Congressman. I think there has been some confusion, and I welcome the opportunity to try to clarify it to the best of my ability. With respect, as you rightly point out, the claims that were made about the cables, I think you have explained the fact, which is that it is the long-standing tradition of the State Department for cables from around the world to be sent to and sent from the State Department under the signature, over the signature of the secretary of State. It's a -- it's a stamp. It's just part of the tradition. There are millions of them, as you point out. They are sorted through and directed to the appropriate personnel. Very few of them ever come to my attention. None of them with respect to security regarding Benghazi did. Then the other point, which I thank you for raising so that perhaps I can speak to this one as well. There is, of course, information that we were obtaining about the increasingly dangerous environment in Libya. Across the country, but in particular in Eastern Libya. And we were aware of that. And we were certainly taking that into account. There was no actionable intelligence on September 11th, or even before that date, about any kind of planned attack on our compound in Benghazi. And there were a lot of debates, apparently, that went on within the security professionals about what to provide. Because they did have to prioritize. The Accountability Review Board pointed that out. The State Department has historically, and certainly before this terrible accident, not had the amount of money we thought necessary to do what was required to protect everyone. So, of course, there had to be priorities. And that was something that the security professionals dealt with. I think that both Admiral Mullen And Ambassador Pickering made it very clear that they thought that the high threat post should move to a higher level of scrutiny. And we had immediately moved to do that. CUMMINGS: Thank you. GOWDY: Thank the gentleman. The chair will now recognize the gentlelady from Indiana, Ms. Brooks. 11:07:19 BROOKS: Good morning, Secretary Clinton. CLINTON: Good morning. BROOKS: Thank you for being here today. In drawing on what you just said, that very few, but no requests for Benghazi came to your attention, I'd like to show you something. This pile represents the emails that you sent or received about Libya in 2011, from February through December of 2011. This pile represents the emails you sent or received from early 2012 until the day of the attack. There are 795 emails in this pile. We've counted them. There's 67 emails in this pile in 2012. And I'm troubled by what I see here. And so, my questions relate to these piles. In this pile in 2011 I see daily updates, sometimes is hourly updates from your staff about Benghazi and Chris Stevens. When I look at this pile in 2012, I only see a handful of emails to you from your senior staff about Benghazi. And I have several questions for you about this disparity, because we know from talking to your senior advisers, that they knew, and many of them are here today seated behind you, they knew to send you important information, issues that were of importance to you. And I can only conclude by your own records that there was a lack of interest in Libya in 2012. So, let's first focus, though, on this pile and what was happening in Libya in 2011. We had an ambassador to Libya, Ambassador Cretz. But you have told us -- and you told us in your opening, you hand-picked Chris Stevens to be your special representative in Benghazi, and you sent him there. And by your own emails, most provided last February, a few provided just a few weeks ago, they show that in March of '11 -- so, we're in March of '11, you had Chris Stevens join you in Paris, where you were meeting with the leader of the Libyan revolution. And after Paris, that is when, as you talked about Chris Stevens went into Benghazi I believe in April 5th of 2011 on that Greek cargo ship. How long was he expected to stay? What were Chris Stevens's orders from you about Libya and about Benghazi specifically? 11:09:59 CLINTON: Chris Stevens was asked to go to Benghazi to do reconnaissance, to try to figure out who were the leaders of the insurgency who were based in Benghazi, what their goals were, what they understood would happen if they were successful. It was, as I had, the hard-nosed 21st century diplomacy that is rooted in the old- fashioned necessary work of building relationships and gathering information. BROOKS: How long was he anticipated to stay in Benghazi, do you recall? 11:10:35 CLINTON: There -- it was open-ended. We were, in discussing it with him, unsure as to how productive it would be, whether it would be appropriate for him to stay for a long time or a short time. That was very much going to depend upon Chris' own assessment. We knew we were sending someone who understood the area, who understood the language, who understood a lot of the personalities because of the historical study that he used to love to do. And we were going to be guided by what he decided. 11:11:12 BROOKS: I'd like to draw your attention to an email. It's an email found at Tab 1. It's an Op Center email that was forwarded to you from Huma Abedin on Sunday, March 27th that says at the bottom of the email -- so the current game plan is for Mr. Stevens to move no later than Wednesday from Malta to Benghazi. But the bottom of the e- mail says the goal of this one-day trip is for him to lay the groundwork for a stay of up to 30 days. So just to refresh that recollection, I believe initially the goal was to go in for 30 days. Were you personally briefed on his security plan prior to him going into Libya? CLINTON: Yes. 11:11:56 BROOKS: Because at that time, if I'm not mistaken -- I'm sorry to interrupt -- Gadhafi's forces were still battling the rebels, correct? CLINTON: That's right. BROOK: And so what were -- were you personally briefed before you sent Mr. Stevens into Benghazi? 11:12:12 CLINTON: I was personally told by the officials who were in the State Department who were immediately above Chris, who were making the plans for him to go in, that it was going to be expeditionary diplomacy. It was going to require him to make a lot of judgments on the ground about what he could accomplish and including where it would be safe for him to be and how long for him to stay. And I think the initial decision was, you know, up to 30 days and reassess. But it could have been 10 days, it could have been 60 days depending upon what he found and what he reported back to us. BROOKS: And possibly what was determined about the danger of Benghazi. Who were those officials? CLINTON: Well, there were a number of officials who were... BROOKS: That were advising you on the security specifically? 11:13:04 CLINTON: Well, with respect to the security, this was a particular concern of the assistant secretary for the bureau in which Chris worked. BROOKS: I'm sorry. What was that person's name? CLINTON: Assistant secretary Jeff Feldman. BROOKS: Thank you. 11:13:19 CLINTON: And it was also a concern of the assistant secretary for diplomatic security, as well as other officials within the State Department. And I think it's fair to say, Congresswoman, this was, we all knew, a risky undertaking and it was something that was, as I said in my opening statement, more reminiscent of the way diplomacy was practiced back in the 19th century. Because we didn't have is the Internet. We didn't have instantaneous communication. You would send diplomats and envoys into places and not hear from them for maybe months. This was obviously not of that kind, but it was not that different in degree from what we had done before. And it was a risky undertaking and one which Chris volunteered for and was anxious to undertake. 11:14:06 BROOKS: And it was so risky -- I'd like to pull up another e- mail from the Op Center that forwarded to you from Ms. Abedin Sunday, April 10th. So he had been there about five days. And it indicates that the situation in Ajdabiya had worsened to the point where Stevens is considering departing from Benghazi. This is within five days of him going in. Were you aware of that concern in the first five days that he had gone in? CLINTON: Yes. BROOKS: And did anyone share that with you and -- did share that with you? 11:14:32 CLINTON: Yes. We were aware because we were -- we were really counting on Chris to guide us and give us the information from the ground. We had no other sources. You know, there was no American outpost. There was no, you know, American military presence. Eventually, other Americans representing different agencies were able to get into Benghazi and begin to do the same work, but they, of course, couldn't do that work overtly, which is why we wanted a diplomat who could be publicly meeting with people to try to get the best assessment. But it was always going to be a constant risk, and we knew that. BROOKS: And so let me go back to the risk in 2011 because there was a lot of communication, again, once again from your senior staff, from the State Department to you or from you in 2011. And in fact, that is when Gadhafi fell. He fell in 2011. But then when we go to 2012, Libya, Benghazi, Chris Stevens, the staff there, they seem to fall off your radar in 2012, and the situation is getting much worse in 2012. It was getting much worse. And let me just share for you in your records that we have reviewed, there is not one email to you or from you in 2012 when an explosive device went off at our compound in April. There's not a single email in your records about that explosive device. So my question is, this was a very important mission in 2011, you sent Chris Stevens there. But yet when your compound is attacked in 2012, what kind of culture was created in the State Department that your folks couldn't tell you in an email about a bomb in April of 2012? 11:16:25 CLINTON: Well, Congresswoman, I did not conduct most of the business that I did on behalf of our country on email. I conducted it in meetings. I read massive amounts of memos, a great deal of classified information. I made a lot of secure phone calls. I was in and out of the White House all the time. There were a lot of things that happened that I was aware of and that I was reacting to. If you were to be in my office in the State Department, I didn't have a computer, I did not do the vast is majority of the work on my email. And I bet there are a lot of Sid Blumenthal's emails in there from 2011 too. BROOKS: Well, we'll get to... 11:17:07 CLINTON: And so I think that there were -- I don't want you to have a mistaken impression about what I did and how I did it. Most of my work was not done on emails with my closest aides, with officials in the State Department, officials in the rest of the government, as well as the White House and people around the world. BROOKS: And thank you for sharing that because I'm sure that it's not all done on emails, Madam Secretary, and there are meetings and there are discussions. And so then when your compound took a second attack on June 6th, when a bomb blew a wall through the compound then, no emails, no emails at all. But I am interested in knowing who were you meeting with, who were you huddling with, how were you informed about those things? Because there is nothing in the emails that talks about two significant attacks on our compounds in 2012. There was a lot of information in 2011 about issues and security posture and yet nothing in 2012. 11:18:02 CLINTON: Well, I'd be happy to explain. Every morning when I arrived at the State Department, usually between 8:00 and 8:30, I had a personal one-on-one briefing from the representative of the Central Intelligence Agency who shared with me the highest level of classified information that I was to be aware of on a daily basis. I then had a meeting with the top officials of the State Department every day that I was in town. That's where a lot of information, including threats and attacks on our facilities, was shared. I also had a weekly meeting every Monday with all of the officials, the assistant secretaries and others, so that I could be brought up to date on any issue they were concerned about. During the day, I received hundreds of pages of memos, many of them classified, some of them so top secret they were brought into my office in a locked briefcase that I had to read and immediately return to the courier. And I was constantly at the White House in the situation room meeting with the national security adviser and others. I would also be meeting with officials in the State Department, foreign officials and others. So there was a lot going on during every day. I did not email during the day and -- except on rare occasions when I was able to. But I didn't conduct the business that I did primarily on email. That is not how I gathered information, assessed information, asked the hard questions of the people that I worked with. 11:19:35 BROOKS: It appears that leaving Benghazi -- with respect to all of that danger, leaving Benghazi was not an option in 2012. And I yield back. 11:19:43 CLINTON: If I could just quickly respond, there was never a recommendation from any intelligence official in our government, from any official in the State Department, or from any other person with knowledge of our presence in Benghazi to shut down Benghazi, even after the two attacks that the compound suffered. And perhaps, you know, you would wonder why, but I can tell you that it was thought that the mission in Benghazi, in conjunction with the CIA mission, was vital to our national interests. GOWDY: The gentlelady from Indiana yields back. The chair will now briefly recognize Mr. Cummings and then Ms. Duckworth. 11:20:24 CUMMINGS: Thank you very much, Mr. Chairman. I just want to clarify, when I was asking Secretary Clinton a question a moment ago, I mentioned an email that had gone from Ambassador Chris Stevens to Deputy Secretary Lamb. What I meant to say was a cable. And I just wanted to make sure the record was clear. GOWDY: The record will reflect that. Ms. Duckworth? 11:20:46 DUCKWORTH: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Secretary Clinton, I'm pleased that you finally have the opportunity to be here. Before I start my line of questioning, I just want to clarify with regard to the April-June, 2012 incidents. I believe that the procedure that the State Department had for these types of incidents was to actually hold what are called emergency action committee hearings on the ground immediately. And in fact, there were at least five on the records for June alone, on the ground in both Tripoli and Benghazi. And that is the correct procedure for handling such instances. Is that not correct? CLINTON: That's correct. 11:21:27 DUCKWORTH: Thank you. Secretary Clinton, my focus and my job on this committee is to make sure that we never put brave Americans like Ambassador Stevens, Sean Smith, Tyrone Woods, and Glen Doherty ever on the ground again anywhere in the world without the protection that they so rightly deserve. Having flown combat missions myself in some dangerous places, I understand the dedication of our men and women who choose to serve this country overseas. I have a special affinity for the diplomatic corps because these are folks who go in without the benefit of weapons, without the benefit of military might, armed only with America's values and diplomatic words and a handshake, to forward our nation's interests globally. And so I am absolutely determined to make sure that we safeguard in the name of our heroic dead our men and women in the diplomatic corps wherever where they around the world. So, the bottom line for me, I'm a very mission-driven person, the bottom line for me with respect to examining what went wrong in Benghazi is clear. Let's learn from those mistakes and let's figure out what we need to do to fix them. I've only been in Congress not quite three years, almost three years. And in this time, I've actually served on two other committees in addition to this one that has looked at the Benghazi attacks, both Armed Services and Oversight and Government Reform. So I've had a chance to really look at all of these documents. One of the things that I saw, and I'd like you to -- discuss this with you, is that the Department of State and the Department of Defense at the time seems to have not had the most ideal cooperation when it came to threat or security analysis. I do know, however, that over the past decade, they've established a tradition of working together on the ground in dangerous regions that has increased over time. However, as a member of the Armed Services Committee, which also looked at the Benghazi attack, I'm concerned that the interagency cooperation between State and DOD was not sufficient in the weeks and months leading up to the September 11, 2012 attacks. For example, joint contingency planning and training exercises, if we had conducted any joint interagency planning and training exercises, this may have actually helped State and DOD to identify and fix existing vulnerabilities in the temporary mission facility in Benghazi. Moreover, regular communications between AFRICOM, which is the DOD command, and the special mission Benghazi, could have facilitated the pre-positioning of military assets in a region where there were very real questions over the host country's ability to protect our diplomatic personnel. Secretary Clinton, within the weeks of the terrorist attack in Benghazi happening, following that, I understand you partnered with the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff to establish and deploy five interagency security assessment teams to assess our security posture and needs at at least the 19 high-threat posts in 13 different countries. In fact, Deputy Secretary Nize (ph) testified before the House Foreign Affairs Committee in December of 2012 that the State Department and DOD ISAT initiative created a road map for addressing emerging security challenges. Why did you partner with the Department of Defense to conduct such a high-priority review? And was it effective in addressing the shortfalls inn Benghazi and applying it for other locations? 11:25:00 CLINTON: Congressman -- Congresswoman, thank you very much, and thanks for your service, and particularly your knowledge about these issues rising from your own military service and the service on the committees here in the House. It's very challenging to get military assets into countries that don't want them there. And in fact, that has been a constant issue that we have worked, between the State Department and the Department of Defense. The Libyans made it very clear from the very beginning they did not want any American military or any foreign military at all in their country. And what I concluded is that we needed to have these assessments because even if we couldn't post our own military in the country, we needed to have a faster reaction. I certainly agree 100 percent with the findings of the Armed Services Committee here in the House and other investigations. Our military did everything they could. They turned over every rock. They tried to deploy as best they could to try to get to Benghazi. It was beyond the geographic range. They didn't have assets nearby because we don't have a lot of installations and military personnel that are in that immediate region. So following what happened in Benghazi, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs, General Dempsey and I, agreed to send out mixed teams of our diplomatic security and their top security experts from the Defense Department to get a better idea of the 19 high-threat posts. And that's exactly what we did. And it gave us some guidance to try to have better planning ahead of time. I know Admiral Mullen testified that it would be beyond the scope of our military to be able to provide immediate reaction to 270 posts. But that's why we tried to narrow down. And of course, we do get help from our military in war zones. The military has been incredibly supportive of our embassy in Kabul and our embassy in Baghdad. But we have a lot of hot spots now and very dangerous places that are not in military conflict areas where we have American military presence. So we wanted to figure out how we could get more quickly a fast reaction team to try to help prevent what happened in Benghazi. 11:27:40 DUCKWORTH: Thank you. So this ISAT process that the joint teams at DOD and State that goes out, and initially looked at the 19 posts, that's great that they come back with a report. It's kind of like, you know, the seven reports do this, and now we have another committee. We can keep having committees to look into Benghazi, but we never act on them. It doesn't help our men and women on the ground. And that's what I'm focused on. 11:28:03 DUCKWORTH: So what I want to know is, with these ISATs, so they came back with their recommendations to you. Have they been resourced? Are they institutionalized? Is -- what has been done with this process so that it's not a snapshot in time in reaction to Benghazi attack? And I want to make sure that, you know, at the very least, we're continuing that cooperation, or at least there's some sort of institutionalization of the review process to make sure that if it's not those 19 posts, if the shift now is there's 20 posts or some other posts. What has been done to make sure it's institutionalized? 11:28:37 CLINTON: Well, that was one of the changes that I instituted before I left. And I'm confident that Secretary Kerry and his counterpart, Secretary Carter, at the Defense Department are continuing that. Because I think it was very useful. Certainly, it was useful for our security professionals and our diplomats to be partnered in that way with the Defense Department. You know, historically, the only presence at some of our facilities has been Marines. And as you know well, Marines were there not for the purpose of personnel protection. They were there to destroy classified material and equipment. And so part of the challenge that we have faced inn some of these hot-spot, dangerous areas is how we get more of a presence. And after Benghazi, we were able to get Marines deployed to Tripoli. So this is a constant effort between the State Department and the Defense Department, but it's my strong belief that the ISAT process has been and should be institutionalized and we should keep learning from it. 11:29:46 DUCKWORTH: I'd like to touch on the quadrennial reviews. Again, coming from Armed Services, even as a young platoon leader out in, you know, in a platoon, we got and read the defense quadrennial review, which is a review that happens on a periodic basis, that gives the individual soldier an idea of what the Defense Department is trying to do. And I understand you initiated something similar in the State Department. CLINTON: Right. 11:30:16 DUCKWORTH: And this goes to -- there's been discussion already about the culture at the State Department, especially when it comes to security. I found that the Department of Defense Quadrennial Defense Review is really good at instilling culture throughout the department. Can you talk a little bit how and why you decided to do the review for the State Department? Was it useful? Is it useful? Is it getting out there? Is it a waste of time, and we shouldn't be wasting money on it and we should be doing something else? 11:30:44 CLINTON: Well, I hope it's not the latter. I learned about the Quadrennial Defense Review serving on Armed Services Committee in the Senate during my time there. I agree with you completely, Congresswoman. It is a very successful road map as to where we should be going. And I'm impressed as a platoon leader, it was something you too into account. So, when I came to the State Department, there had never been anything like this done, there was no road map. And the State Department, USAID would come up and fight for the money they could get out of Congress, no matter who was in charge of the Congress, every single year. It is one percent of the entire budget. And it was very difficult to explain effectively what it is we were trying to achieve. So it did institute the first ever Quadrennial Diplomacy and Diplomacy And Development Review. And one of the key questions that we were addressing is, what is this balance between risk and reward when it comes to our diplomats and our development professionals? Because the first thing I heard when I got to the State Department was a litany of complaints from a lot of our most experienced diplomats that they were being ham-strung. That the security requirements were so intense, that they were basically unable to do their jobs. And of course, then, from the security professionals, who were all part of this, what we call the QDDR, they were saying, we don't want you to go beyond the fence. We can't protect you in all of these dangerous circumstances. How you balance that -- and it is a constant balancing of risk and reward, in terms of what we hope our diplomats and development professionals can do. So, it has been twice now. Secretary Kerry, in his tenure, has done the second QDDR. And I hope it becomes as important and as much of a road map as the QDR has for our Defense Department and our military services. DUCKWORTH: Thank you. I'm out of time, Mr. Chairman. GOWDY: Thank you the gentle lady from Illinois. The chair will now recognize the gentlelady from Alabama, Ms. Roby. 11:32:49 ROBY: Good morning. CLINTON: Good morning. 11:32:51 ROBY: Secretary Clinton, some I colleagues have focused on your relationship with the Ambassador Chris Stevens, and why you sent him into Benghazi in 2011 as part of your broader Libya initiative. But it's not so clear from everything that we've reviewed that you had a vision in Benghazi going forward into 2012 and beyond. It appears that there was confusion and uncertainly within your own department about Libya. And quite frankly, Secretary Clinton, it appears that you were a large cause of that uncertainty. And we have seen all the day-to-day updates and concern early in 2011. And I heard what you said to my colleague, Ms. Brooks. And I'll get to that in a minute. But showing that Libya, and for that matter Benghazi, belonged to you in 2011. It was yours, so to speak. And from your own records that we have, we saw a drop in your interest in Libya and Benghazi in 2012. Not only do the records show your drop in interest in Benghazi, it was even noticed by your own staff. I want to point this out to you -- I say this, because I want to point you to an e-mail in early February 2012, between two staffers at your Libya desk that says, you didn't know whether we still even had a presence in Benghazi. Let's not use my words. Let's use theirs. This can be found at tab 31. The e-mail says -- and it is dated February 9, 2012. One writes to the other about an encounter that she had with you. Quote, "Also, the secretary also asked last week if we still have a presence in Benghazi. I think she would be upset to hear, yes, we do. But because we don't have enough security, they are on lockdown," end quote. And I say this is very troubling to me because it raises several issues that I would like to ask you about. I'm struck by the first part, quote, "The secretary asked last week if we still have a presence in Benghazi." Now, you pointed out to Mrs. Brooks in her last line of questioning, based on the e-mail stacks here, that you engaged in a lot of conversations and briefings. So, I'm assuming that this conversation with this member of your staff took place in one of those briefings. But then she sent this e-mail asking about this. So, how can this be that two of your staffers are e-mailing about whether or not you even knew if we had a presence in Benghazi in 2012, with all your interest in Libya in 2011, including your trip in October of 2011? And that months later, we come to find out you didn't even know we had a presence there? 11:35:53 CLINTON: Well, I can't comment on what has been reported. Of course, I knew we had a presence in Benghazi. I knew that we were evaluating what that presence should be, how long it should continue. And I knew exactly what we were doing in Libya. And I think it's important. Since you have very legitimate questions about what we were doing. You know, the United States played a role in the first election that the Libyan people had in 51 years. It was a successful election by every count. And they voted for moderates. They voted for the kind of people they wanted to govern them. We had a very successful effort that the United States supported, getting rid of Gadhafi's remaining chemical weapons, which we led and supported the United Nations and others in being able to do. We were combating the proliferation of weapons. That's one of the reasons why there was a CIA presence in Benghazi, because we were trying to figure out how to get those weapons out of the wrong hands, and get them collected in a way and destroyed. And in fact, we began reducing those heavy weapon stocks. We were working on providing transition assistance to the Libyans. I met with the Libyans. I telephoned with the Libyans. I saw the Libyans all during this period. And it was hard. Because a lot of them knew what they wanted, but they didn't know how to get from where they were to that goal. And we did an enormous amount of work. My two deputies, Tom Nides and Bill Burns, went to Libya. Other officials in the State Department went to Libya. So there was a constant, continuing effort that I led to try to see what we could do to help. Now, one of the problems we faced is that the Libyans did not really feel that welcome a peace-keeping mission. They couldn't welcome foreign troops to their soil. That made it really difficult. And it didn't have to be American troops, it could have been troops from anywhere in the world under a U.N. Mandate that might have helped them begin to secure their country. 11:38:05 ROBY: Secretary Clinton, if I may, I hear what you're saying, but this e-mail says something very, very different. 11:38:11 CLINTON: Well, I -- you know, I can't speak to that. I can just tell you what I was doing, and I was doing a lot. ROBY: Sure. But these -- this was your staff. And I... (CROSSTALK) ROBY: If they had this conversation with you, why would they make it up? But I want to move on. This e-mail, you know, makes me wonder about the vision for Benghazi, because they're asking if you -- they're saying that you asked if we still had a presence. But if you -- you know, we look at the second part of the e-mail, quote, "And I think she would be upset to say, yes, we do," I... 11:38:46 CLINTON: Congresswoman, I'm sorry. I have no recollection of, or no knowledge of -- of course... ROBY: Well, please turn to tab 31, because it's right there. 11:38:51 CLINTON: Well, I trust that you have read it. But I also tell you that we had a presence in Benghazi. We had members of the administration and Congress visiting Benghazi. So, of course, I knew we had a presence in Benghazi. I can't speak to what someone either heard or misheard. But I think what's important, and I understand that the underlying point of your request question is, what were we doing about Libya? And after Gadhafi fell. ROBY: Right. And I've heard that first part. 11:39:17 CLINTON: And that's what I'm trying to explain to you about what we were doing. ROBY: Yes, ma'am. I want to get to the second part of the email that suggests that we were in lockdown, that you would have been upset to know yes -- heard the first part of your answer -- but that we were in lockdown. And you've said on numerous occasions, including in your opening statement, on point number one, you know, America must lead and we must represent in dangerous places, quote, "They can't do their jobs for us in bunkers." And essentially what we know is that there weren't the required number of security on the ground in order for the individual to even move about the country to provide you with what you have reiterated on numerous occasions as being very important at that time, which is political reporting. 11:40:03 CLINTON: Well, could -- could you tell me who is -- who are the names on this email that you're talking about? ROBY: Sure. I can. Turn to tab 31. You have a book in front of you. It is Alice Abdallah and I'm going to pronounce it wrong, Enya Sodarais (ph)? Is that correct? 11:40:24 CLINTON: They were not on my staff. I'm not in any way contradicting what they think they heard or what they heard somebody say. But the people that I know... ROBY: Can you tell me who they were if they were not on your staff? 11:40:35 CLINTON: They were not on my -- they were in the State Department, along with thousands of other people. They were not part of the secretary staff. But I get what you're saying, Congresswoman. And I want to focus on this. I think it's a fair and important question. The facility in Benghazi was a temporary facility. There had been no decision made as to whether or not it would be permanent. It was not even a consulate. Our embassy was in Tripoli. Obviously much of the work that we were doing was going through the embassy. There was a very vigorous discussion on the part of people who were responsible for making a recommendation about Benghazi as to what form of consulate, what form of facility it should be. Chris Stevens believed that it should be a formal consulate. But that was something that had to be worked out. And there had not yet been a decision at the time that the attack took place. So it was not a permanent facility. And, you know, there were a number of questions that people were asking about whether it could or should be. ROBY: I want to drill down on the security issue. But I also want to say it's frustrating for us here on this panel asking these questions to hear you in your opening statement talk about the responsibility you took for all 70 plus thousand employees, yet I read you an e-mail between two of those employees and it seems as though you're just kind of brushing it off as not having any knowledge. 11:42:06 CLINTON: I'm just saying I have no recollection of it and it doesn't correspond with the facts of what we were doing on a regular basis. ROBY: Well if we talk for just a minute about the security, I have a few seconds left. In 2011, during the revolution, then envoy Stevens had 10 agents with him on the ground in Benghazi. And then we know in 2012 where the security situation had deteriorated even further, there were only three agents assigned to Benghazi. Again, can't even move anybody off of the facility to do the necessary political reporting. And my question is, you know, why did you not acknowledge, because of your interest in 2011, the importance of having those security officers there to do what was so important to you, which was the political reporting? Then in 2011, 2010, and when an am bass doctor was there, three, and he brought two of his own the night of the attack, which would meet the requisite five, but there was really only three there at any given time. So if you could address that, again, I'm running a little short on time. 11:43:17 CLINTON: Well, he did have five with him on September 11th and... ROBY: Well, he brought two, right? He brought two with him, there were three there, and there were... 11:43:27 CLINTON: Right. But the point was they were personal security. So they were there to secure him. So yes, he did bring two. When he got there, he had five. ROBY: Can you address the discrepancy? 11:43:38 CLINTON: The day before September 10th he went in to Benghazi. He went to a luncheon with leading civic leaders, business leaders in Benghazi. So he felt very comfortable. It was his decision. Ambassadors do not have to seek permission from the State Department to travel around the country that they are assigned to. He decided to go to Benghazi by taking two security officers with him and having three there, he had the requisite five that had been the subject of discussion between the embassy and the State Department security professionals. I'm not going to in any way suggest that he or the embassy got everything they requested. We know that they didn't from the Accountability Review Board, from investigations that were done by the Congress. We know that there were a lot of discussions about what was needed, particularly in Benghazi. And that the day that he died he had five security officers. A lot of security professionals who have reviewed this matter, even those who are critical, that the State Department did not do enough, have said that the kind of attack that took place would have been very difficult to repel. That's what we have to learn from, Congresswoman. There are many lessons going back to Beirut, going back to Tehran and the take over of our embassy and going all the way through these years. And sometimes we learn lessons and we actually act and we do the best we can. And there's a perfect, terrible example of that with respect to what happened in Benghazi. ROBY: Certainly. And my time has expired. We will certainly never know what the outcome would have been if there had been more agents that night. I yield back. 11:45:37 CLINTON: Well, that's not what the professionals, that's not what the experts in security have concluded, if you have read the Accountability Review Board... ROBY: I have read it Secretary Clinton. And it says that security was grossly in adequate. 11:45:48 CLINTON: Well, it said that there were deficiencies within two bureaus in the State Department which we have moved to correct and it also pointed out that the diplomatic security officers that were there acted heroically. There was not one single question about what they did. And they were overrun. And it was unfortunate that the agreement we had with the CIA annex and when those brave men showed up that it was also not enough. ROBY: Certainly. We'll discuss this more. I have to yield back. GOWDY: The gentle lady's time has expired. The chair will now recognizes the gentleman from Washington. 11:46:31 SMITH: Thank you, Mr. Chairman. And thank you Madam Secretary for being here. Just to clarify, you knew we had a presence. 11:46:37 CLINTON: Of course I knew, I knew, Congressman, of course. SMITH: Going back to your earlier question, you were also aware of those two attacks on your compounds even though you didn't e-mail about it. CLINTON: Yes, I was aware. 11:46:47 SMITH: And that I think sort of points out, I mean, after 17 months and $4.7 million, as the ranking member pointed out in his opening statements, and as we've seen today, you know, this committee is simply not doing its job. And I don't really think it should have been formed in the first place. But what we have heard here is well, first of all, an obsession with email. The idea that two fairly junior level staffers might not have gotten something wrong in what they heard or the information in an e-mail might, in fact, not be accurate, are certainly not things that should be news to anybody. But it is the obsession with the e- mails that takes us off what should have been the task of this committee. I also find it interesting that Mr. Obi's (ph) final comments were to quote the ARB report. Yes, the ARB report I think was very good. I think we absolutely had to have it. I think it was appropriate for the committees and Congress to do the investigations they did. But all of that begs the question as to why we've spent the $4.7 million we have spent on this. And even in the chairman's opening remarks, it was primarily a defense of the committee's existence. Not any new information. Not here's what we, in those 17 months and $4.7 million have figured out that is new and different. Nothing. In fact, we have heard nothing. Even in today's hearing. Not a single solitary thing that hasn't already been discussed repeatedly. So we have learned absolutely nothing. Yes, we have uncovered a trove of new information. In this age, I don't think there's ever an end to e-mails. We could probably go on for another two years and we'd find more. The question is what we found anything substantively that tells us something different about what happened in Benghazi? And the answer to that question is no. Look, I didn't think this committee should have been formed in the first place. But if it was going to be formed, the least we could do is to actually focus on the four brave Americans who were killed, why they were killed, and focus on Benghazi. And we have not. Mr. Roskam's questions I found to be the most interesting. Basically -- I don't know, it was like he was running for president. He wanted to debate you on overall Libya policy as to why we got in the first place. And that's debatable. And I think you will argue that quite well. But that's not about the attack on Benghazi. That's not about what we could have done in Benghazi to better protect them. So again, I think we have seen hat this committee is focused on you. And I'm the ranking member of the Armed Services committee. I don't see the Department of Defense here. I don't see the CIA here. There were many, many other agencies involved in this. And yet yours has been the one they have obsessively focused on. And I think that's a shame for a whole lot of reasons. 11:49:46 SMITH: For one thing, this committee, as it has been in the news the last several weeks, has been yet one more step in denigrating this institution. And I happen to think this institution needs more support, not less. So I wish we would stop doing that. And I -- you know, you mentioned Beirut, and that was the first though that occurred to me when this happened, was a Democratic Congress at the time did a fair and quick investigation of what was an unspeakable tragedy -- two separate suicide bombings four months apart. And there was clearly inadequate security. But the focus there was not on partisanship, not on embarrassing the Reagan administration, but in actually figuring out what happened and how we can better protect Americans. Now, I wonder if I could just ask questions about what I think is the central issue, and that is how do we have that presence in the world that you described in what is an increasingly dangerous world? Because as I've traveled to Pakistan and Afghanistan, Yemen and other places, I'm consistently amazed by the willingness of our diplomatic corps to put their lives at risk. And I wonder how do you balance that very difficult decision. Because frankly, what I've heard more often from that diplomatic corps is that they chafe at the restrictions. I mean, I remember vividly being in Peshawar, which is, you know -- I mean, I didn't like the ride from the airport to the embassy, which was 10 minutes, and we were there for, I don't know, a few hours and then out. You know, the State Department personnel, they live there and went out amongst the community. How do you try and strike that balance of, you know, being present and at the same time meeting the security obligations? And then most importantly, who drives that decision? Because it seems to me in most instances it is driven by the diplomatic corps there. If they take risks, it's because they've decided to do it. They're there. They know the security situation certainly better than the secretary and better than most everybody else. What is the proper way to strike that balance going forward to protect our personnel and still fulfill their mission? 11:51:53 CLINTON: Congressman, I think that is the most important question, and I would certainly welcome Congressional discussion and debate about this because it's what we tried to do -- going back to Congresswoman Duckworth's question, what we tried to begin to do in the Quadrennial Diplomacy and Development Review, the first one that was ever done, because that's exactly what we were facing. You know, we have had diplomats and development professionals in war zones now for a number of years. We've had them in places that are incredibly unstable and dangerous because of ongoing conflicts. It is, I think, the bias of the diplomacy corps that they be there because that's what they signed up for. And they know that if America is not represented, then we leave a vacuum and we lose our eyes and our ears about what people are thinking and doing. It is certainly the hardest part of the job in many of our agencies and departments today. And it was for me in the State Department. That's why I relied on the security professionals because by the time I got there in 2009, the diplomatic security professionals had been taking care of American diplomats in Iraq, in Afghanistan, in Pakistan for years. And they had learned a lot of the lessons and they were forced to make tough decisions all the time. You mentioned Peshawar, one of clearly the high threat posts that the United States maintains a presence in. But when you think that since 2001 we've had 100 of our facilities attacked, if we were to shut them all down, if we were to pull out from all of them, we would be blinding ourselves. So it's a constant balancing act. What are the risks and what are the rewards for opening, maintaining and/or closing a site. I don't know that there's any hard and fast rule that we can adopt. We just have to get better at making that assessment, Congressman, and your question really goes to the heart of it. When you were as a member of Congress in Peshawar, you were guarded by our diplomatic security professionals. They had to assess was it safe enough for a member of Congress to come, how do we get him from the airport to the embassy. It won't surprise you to hear we've had attacks there as so many other places around the world. And that is a heavy responsibility, and the diplomatic security professionals get it right 999 times out of a thousand. And it's deeply distressing to them when anything goes wrong. We have lost non-Americans with some of these attacks on facilities. We've lost our locally-employed staff. They never want to see any successful attack, so they have to be -- they have to be right 100 percent of the time, CLINTON 11:55:00 the terrorists only have to be right once. And, you know, that's why this is really at the core of what I tried to do before even I got the Accountability Review Board, going back to the QDDR, to come up with a better way of trying to make those assessments. SMITH: Madam Secretary, if I may, just two final points. I mean, so the bottom line is Benghazi on 9/11/2012 was not the only dangerous place in the world where our security personnel were and where these difficult decisions had to be made. CLINTON: Right. SMITH: And the other point I want to make before my time expires, now this was in 2012, so we were only a couple of years into this, but Secretary of Defense Ash Carter just I think yesterday wrote an editorial in the Wall Street journal about the impact of five years of budget uncertainty on the DOD's ability to function. I mean, for five years, we have gone through C.R.s, threatened government shutdowns, one actual government shutdown, and constant budget uncertainty. Now, my area is the Department of Defense. I know how it's impacted them. They basically from one week to the next barely know what they can spend money on. Now, one of the criticisms is that there should have been more security, but if you don't have a budget, if you don't have an appropriations bill, how does that complicate your job as secretary in trying to figure out what money you can spend? 11:56:22 CLINTON: Well, it makes it very difficult, Congressman. And this is a subject that we talked about all the time, how do you plan. How do you know -- you know, you have so many diplomatic security officers in so many dangerous places, how do you know what you're going to have to be able to deploy and where are you going to have to make the choices. That's why the prioritization, which shouldn't have to be, in my view, the responsibility of the officials in the State Department or the Defense Department to try to guess what makes the most sense. We should have a much more orderly process for our budget. And I will say again, as secretary of State, the kind of dysfunction and failure to make decisions that we have been living with in our government hurts us. It hurts us in the obvious ways, like where you're going to deploy forces if you're in DOD or where we're going to send security if you're in the Department of State. But it hurts us as the great country that we are, being viewed from an abroad as unable to handle our own business. And so it has a lot of consequences. And it's something that I wish that we could get over and have our arguments about policy, have our arguments about substance, but get back to regular order, where we have the greatest nation in the world with a budget that then they can plan against as opposed to the uncertainty that has stalked us now for so long. SMITH: Thank you, Madam Secretary. So the bottom line is Congress needs to do its job. CLINTON: Right. I agree with that. 11:57:59 GOWDY: The gentlemen yields back. And I'll be happy to get a copy of my opening statement for the gentleman from Washington so he can refresh his recollection on all the things our committee found that your previous committee missed. And with that I'll go to the gentleman from Georgia, Mr. Westmoreland. 11:58:13 WESTMORELAND: Thank you. Madam Secretary, I talk a little slower than everybody else, so... CLINTON: I lived in Arkansas a long time. I don't need an interpreter, Congressman. WESTMORELAND: So some of the questions I'm asking you can just get a yes-or-no answer, that would be great. But I do want you to give us a full answer. But Mr. Smith from Washington mentioned there was no new facts brought out in some of these interviews, and I want to just say that I think he was at one interview for one hour. I have been at a bunch of those and there has been a lot of new facts that's come out. One of the things he said, it doesn't -- that you knew about these two incidents that have been mentioned previously. It's not a matter if you knew about them, it's a matter of what you did about them. And to us, the answer to that is nothing. Now, you say you were briefed by the CIA every morning that you were in Washington; is that correct? CLINTON: That's correct. WESTMORELAND: Did they ever mention to you Assistant Acting Director Morrell wrote in his book that there were scores of intelligence pieces describing in detail how the situation in Libya was becoming more and more dangerous. Did you ever read any of these pieces? 11:59:38 CLINTON: Yes. As I've previously stated, we were certainly aware that the situation across Libya was becoming more dangerous, and that there were particular concerns about eastern Libya. WESTMORELAND: Did you read the piece that was Libya, Al Qaida establishing sanctuary? CLINTON: I'm aware that was certainly among the information provided to me. WESTMORELAND: There was another particular piece that was talked about after the IED attack that AFRICOM wrote. Al Qaida expands in Libya. Were you familiar with that? 12:00:19 CLINTON: I can't speak to specific pieces, Congressman, but I was well aware of the concerns we all had about the setting up of jihadist training camps and other activities in Libya, particularly in eastern Libya. WESTMORELAND: You -- you were briefed, in I think the CIA, between January and September of 2012, at over 4500 pages of intelligence. Were you aware of how many pages of intelligence? And I know you had a specific division, I guess, of the State Department under you that was called Intelligence and Research. CLINTON: Mm-hmm. WESTMORELAND: Did they keep you up to speed on all these 400 cables or different things that they were getting? Did they keep you up to speed on that, that you were aware of them? 12:01:10 CLINTON: Congressman, I can't speak to specific reports. But I can certainly agree with you that I was briefed and aware of the increasingly dangerous upsurge in militant activity in Libya. WESTMORELAND: And so what did you do to make sure that our men and women over there were protected, knowing how much the threat had grown, especially in Benghazi, because a lot of people say that really, in the summer of 2012, the security in Benghazi was worse than it was during the revolution. 12:01:54 CLINTON: Well, Congressman, with respect to not only the specific incidents that you referenced earlier, but the overall concerns about Benghazi, I think I stated previously, there was never any recommendation by anyone, the intelligence community, the Defense Department, the State Department officials responsible for Libya, to leave Benghazi. Even after the two incidents that you mentioned. Because, in part, as I responded to Congressman Smith, we had so many attacks on facilities that, as I said, went back to 2001, that certainly also happened in other parts of the world while I was there. Each was evaluated, and there was not a recommendation. Furthermore, there was not even, on the morning of September 11, while Chris Stevens and Sean Smith were at the compound, Chris had spoken with intelligence experts. There was no credible, actionable threat known to our intelligence community... WESTMORELAND: Yes, ma'am. CLINTON: ... against our compound. WESTMORELAND: Reclaiming my time, you said that the -- Ambassador Chris was pulled out of Tripoli because of threats on his life. 12:03:16 CLINTON: There were threats from people associated with Gadhafi after the publication...

White House briefing with Robert Gibbs. stix White House daily press briefing with Press Secretary Robert Gibbs SLUG: 1400 WH BRIEF STIX RS37 85 AR: 16x9 Disc: 602 & 711 *Fed to NY on 5114* GIBBS: Come on up, guys. 14:30:30 Good afternoon. Before we do our regularly scheduled programming, we have with us today to give a little report and to take some questions from you, given the president's upcoming trip -- trips to both Detroit and Chicago to visit Chrysler, G.M. and Ford plants, today we have with us Ron Bloom, senior adviser to the treasury secretary for automobiles, and celebrating his second-to-last day, tomorrow's his last day and we will sorely miss him, Ed Montgomery, who is head of the White House Council on Automotive Communities and Workers, to talk a little bit about what the president will do tomorrow. I'll just briefly outline. 14:31:15 As I said, the president will make two stops tomorrow in Detroit and Hamtramck, and then the following week in Chicago to talk about the tough decisions that the president made well over a year ago as it related to our auto industry, a decision that has since resulted in a restructured and turned-around auto industry, one that is adding rather than shedding jobs, and a decision in and of itself that likely saved a million jobs and communities -- certainly saved communities from economic devastation. So with that, let me turn it first over to Ron. BLOOM: Thank you. 14:32:03 So tomorrow's visit the president will begin at the Jefferson North Plant of Chrysler, where they're making the Jeep Grand Cherokee. The company employs roughly 2,800 people. It just added a second shift that increased its employment by about 1,100 jobs, to bring it to that 2,800. The Jeep Grand Cherokee is very -- being very well received in the marketplace. The president will then travel to Hamtramck. Around 1,100 people work there. And that's the plant where General Motors will be making the Volt. So that's what tomorrow is. And then early next week he'll be traveling to Ford's Chicago plant, where they are -- where they have agreed -- where they will be adding another shift, another 1,200 workers -- importantly, because of a Department of Energy loan. It's also worth remarking that today we're releasing a little report that does a bit of an update on the situation in the automobile industry. I think it's now available. 14:33:03 Just a couple of highlights from the report. In the year before these bankruptcies, these companies lost almost 340,000 jobs. In the year since then, 55,000 jobs have been added into these companies. As Robert pointed out, if we hadn't have stepped in when we did, most observers believe, at least a million jobs would have been lost. While there is still a long way to go, the report points out that the companies are also showing positive signs of financial performance. In the first quarter all of them made operating profits. That's the first time that's happened since 2004. Ford just reported its second quarter, $2.6 billion of profits. General Motors announced that in their summer, normal summer shutdown period, nine of their 11 factories needed to continue working to meet customer demand. So we think there's a lot of signs that, while slow, the industry is truly coming back. We also would note in that regard that at the time of the -- when things began, 14:34:09 the automobile supply industry, which in fact employs a lot more people than the big three themselves, was losing jobs at a great rate. There were 54 supplier bankruptcies over the course of last year. The supply base is now stabilized. There are less than 10 percent of the companies who are in default of their covenant. So we think the supply base is also looking much more stable. And then, finally, we point out the investments that the president made in the auto industry of the future, in battery plants, in other high-mileage vehicles. So we think we're positioning the United States automobile industry to lead the world in the future. MONTGOMERY: A little over a year ago the president recognized that not only were the companies in trouble, but the communities who relied on this industry were going through distress as well. And so he created the Council on Auto Communities and Workers, and we spent the past year both going out and listening to these communities and then trying to make sure that the resources of the federal government were deployed to help them. They identified a couple of areas which were priority needs for them. First, help the workforce. And so the Department of Labor and the government has made some $50 million in national emergency grants available to help workers in Michigan, Ohio, California, Delaware and Missouri in the auto sector. On top of that, another $75 million was made available particularly for auto community workers to help them transition to new jobs in the green economy, as well as in medical and other high-growth sectors. The second area that they focus on was helping suppliers. Obviously, Ron talked about some of the assistance we did to keep the supply base in place, but also to help suppliers think about how to diversify, how to get into new lines of business, away from automobiles. We're worked with the Manufacturing Extension Program and programs like the Ohio Economic Development to reach some 170 different suppliers in the auto sector, specifically in that state alone, to help them with diversification efforts. On top of that, investments like the Department of Energy's 48C Advanced Manufacturing Program allowed over $7 billion in capital to be made available to get people out of and into the new sectors of wind and solar and other advanced manufacturing, to allow these communities to have new opportunities going forward. MONTGOMERY: Some 180 projects have been funded through that. And, third, these people have talked about the fact that these plants, these facilities that were in these communities, which had been a source of strength for them, were now going to be abandoned -- many of them were going to be abandoned. And so working with the Treasury, the Department of Justice, the Environmental Protection Agency, the administration has put forward a plan that would some $800 million in investments available to clean up these sites and -- as well as to engage in economic development kinds of activities. An example of a kind of site that will benefit this fund is Buick City. That was a facility, a huge facility, in Flint, Michigan. It closed in 1999. Nothing was done on that site for almost a decade. With the kinds of work that we've been able to do, we've got the Environmental Perfection Agency (sic) already worked out a plan to clean up the flight -- the site, to put in place, that we'll take and put in place as soon as the money becomes available at the end of the year. And there's hope that there's actually going to be a new investor coming in, to take over that site and create some jobs in that -- in that area. And so those kinds of investments were the kinds of things we've been doing over the course of the year, making sure that workers, suppliers and the community is comfortable (ph). GIBBS: A few questions? QUESTION: Yes, Mr. Bloom, could you tell me, does the government see any hurdles to G.M. being able to go public? And, also, do you expect the government in the IPO, that it'll reduce its stake in G.M. to under 50 percent? BLOOM: Let me say previously that we are hopeful that General Motors will be able to go public this year. We continue to be hopeful in that regard. 14:38:01 A public offering of this nature, or any public offering, is very tightly regulated by the Securities and Exchange Commission. And so until the company files what's called a registration statement, we're really not in a position to give any further information about what the offering might or might look -- might or might not look like. If at some point in the future the company does file a registration, which -- statement, which, as I said before, we're hopeful it will, then we'll be in a position to give some more information. QUESTION: Dr. Bloom or Mr. Montgomery, The Washington Post in a story this Sunday talked about the unequal wage scale or the disparate wage scale now as a result of the federal intervention. Some assembly line workers make $14 an hour, some make $28. Is that the new normal? And is that something that, as this restructured and turned around auto industry looks at the future, a lower wage scale one that does bring some concerns to those who are on the line now and are anticipating or trying to plan for their future, is that the new normal for the American auto industry? BLOOM: We're not -- I can't say what the new normal is. The company and their union in the context of this very difficult situation worked out a new labor agreement which reduced the company's costs. We did not intervene and tell the company and the union we would rather they do it one way or the other. There were fairly difficult sacrifices made by all stakeholders which allowed these companies to restructure. And we're confident that over time the companies and their unions will work out a fair and equitable situation. QUESTION: Mr. Montgomery, any comment on that? MONTGOMERY: I would just say, it was not new. It didn't start with -- the notion of a two-tier, different salaries for the newer workers versus older workers didn't originate under the restructuring going on here. But, as Dr. -- as Ron has just said... (LAUGHTER) ... obviously, this is something the UAW is negotiating. They thought that this was necessary for the survival of the -- of the company. GIBBS: Let me just add this, I mean, when the president made these tough decisions, he did so asking for -- that conditions be placed on -- on this money and that tough sacrifices, as these gentlemen have said, be made by all. 14:40:19 I think if you look back at that article, I think, you know, everyone was struck that despite what their wage per hour was, those workers were happy to have jobs, happy to be -- their communities are happy that the plants that had been there are there and are thriving. And, as we said, we have an auto industry that instead of shedding hundreds of thousands of jobs is adding jobs. I think -- and I'm sure Ed can talk to this -- my guess is that when the president walks into any of these plants over the next three -- in the next three stops, my guess is that the first 10 or 15 people that he sees and meets and talks to aren't going to be the first of their generation working in that plant. GIBBS: There'll be fathers that worked there before they did, grandfathers that worked before they did as well. And these facilities build strong communities and build strong economies. And as a result of the tough investments that we made and the tough sacrifices made by all, we have an industry that is -- that looks fundamentally different in its progress than we did just a year and a half ago. QUESTION: Real quick, Robert. The point was made this week in that Ford, though not receiving bailout dollars, benefited nevertheless because suppliers remain alive. Would you address that and talk to us a little bit about your understanding of how, though Ford did not seek nor did it receive, it still was either an indirect or direct beneficiary of this intervention? 14:42:04 BLOOM: Yes. I think the entire industry was an indirect beneficiary. The transplant (ph) companies were an indirect beneficiary, too. This is an incredibly interdependent industry, and if G.M. had failed a very large number of suppliers would have immediately failed, who would have been so significant within -- their G.M. business would have meant that they couldn't succeed. And that would have had a cascading effect through the balance of the O.E. (ph), Ford included, and potentially others as well. So I think there's no question that the president's intervention helped the entire industry. I think that's a good thing. You know, the American automobile industry directly employees today 1.7 million people. And so that is one of the reasons why it was so important to look at General Motors and say this company really matters. And if its stakeholders were prepared to do the tough stuff, then it is a good investment to try to help them. So, yes, I think -- I think there were many other companies that benefited, and I think that's a -- that's a very good thing. 14:43:04 GIBBS: And as the -- as the CEO of Ford said back in December of 2008, they weren't looking for direct money, but went to support the efforts of Chrysler and G.M. because, as he said then, and as Ron said, without that supplier base Ford would not have been making cars within -- not within weeks, but within days they would have been forced to make some changes, which is certainly significant. QUESTION: What do you say, Robert or any of you, to the folks who at the beginning, a year and a half ago, were deriding this effort, calling it socialism, calling it a government takeover? You had Rush Limbaugh today -- today or yesterday -- talking Obama Motors again. You know, is it -- is essentially the message here a sort of, "We told you so"? 14:43:58 GIBBS: No, because -- I'll say this. Look, Rush Limbaugh and others wanted to walk away. Rush Limbaugh and others saw a million people that worked at these factories, that worked at these part suppliers, that had support -- that supported communities, and thought we should all just walk away. The president didn't think that walking away from a million jobs in these communities made a lot of economic sense. Let's go back now and look at where we are. The president and the team expect, after these tough decisions, and after the conditions that were put on the restructuring that enabled them to change the trajectory of where we're heading, as Ron said, we've got auto companies that for the first time since 2004 all showed an operating profit in the first quarter of this year. It's adding jobs. And the money that this administration invested, about $60 billion, we believe we're on the path to recouping all of that. That's a significant story. And it's not, as I told a few of you guys yesterday, it's not a zero-sum game. A million people leaving their job would have had a multiplying economic effect. That's a million more people that would have been on unemployment benefits. And certainly as Ed knows, when you walk into these communities, it's not as if these communities have a lot of other businesses, because they're built around these plants. So you're walking away from a million workers, you're walking away from the communities where these plants have been built. GIBBS: There'll be fathers that worked there before they did, grandfathers that worked before they did as well. And these facilities build strong communities and build strong economies. And as a result of the tough investments that we made and the tough sacrifices made by all, we have an industry that is -- that looks fundamentally different in its progress than we did just a year and a half ago. QUESTION: Real quick, Robert. The point was made this week in that Ford, though not receiving bailout dollars, benefited nevertheless because suppliers remain alive. Would you address that and talk to us a little bit about your understanding of how, though Ford did not seek nor did it receive, it still was either an indirect or direct beneficiary of this intervention? BLOOM: Yes. I think the entire industry was an indirect beneficiary. The transplant (ph) companies were an indirect beneficiary, too. This is an incredibly interdependent industry, and if G.M. had failed a very large number of suppliers would have immediately failed, who would have been so significant within -- their G.M. business would have meant that they couldn't succeed. And that would have had a cascading effect through the balance of the O.E. (ph), Ford included, and potentially others as well. So I think there's no question that the president's intervention helped the entire industry. I think that's a good thing. You know, the American automobile industry directly employees today 1.7 million people. And so that is one of the reasons why it was so important to look at General Motors and say this company really matters. And if its stakeholders were prepared to do the tough stuff, then it is a good investment to try to help them. So, yes, I think -- I think there were many other companies that benefited, and I think that's a -- that's a very good thing. GIBBS: And as the -- as the CEO of Ford said back in December of 2008, they weren't looking for direct money, but went to support the efforts of Chrysler and G.M. because, as he said then, and as Ron said, without that supplier base Ford would not have been making cars within -- not within weeks, but within days they would have been forced to make some changes, which is certainly significant. QUESTION: What do you say, Robert or any of you, to the folks who at the beginning, a year and a half ago, were deriding this effort, calling it socialism, calling it a government takeover? You had Rush Limbaugh today -- today or yesterday -- talking Obama Motors again. You know, is it -- is essentially the message here a sort of, "We told you so"? GIBBS: No, because -- I'll say this. Look, Rush Limbaugh and others wanted to walk away. Rush Limbaugh and others saw a million people that worked at these factories, that worked at these part suppliers, that had support -- that supported communities, and thought we should all just walk away. The president didn't think that walking away from a million jobs in these communities made a lot of economic sense. Let's go back now and look at where we are. The president and the team expect, after these tough decisions, and after the conditions that were put on the restructuring that enabled them to change the trajectory of where we're heading, as Ron said, we've got auto companies that for the first time since 2004 all showed an operating profit in the first quarter of this year. It's adding jobs. And the money that this administration invested, about $60 billion, we believe we're on the path to recouping all of that. That's a significant story. And it's not, as I told a few of you guys yesterday, it's not a zero-sum game. A million people leaving their job would have had a multiplying economic effect. That's a million more people that would have been on unemployment benefits. And certainly as Ed knows, when you walk into these communities, it's not as if these communities have a lot of other businesses, because they're built around these plants. So you're walking away from a million workers, you're walking away from the communities where these plants have been built. GIBBS: And quite frankly, you're walking away from a future that, when the president walks into that factory that's building the Chevy Volt -- two, three years ago, if you go back, we didn't even -- there was a lot of talk about whether or not you could even develop the technology necessary to put a battery, an electric battery in a car and have it go 40 or 100 miles without kicking into a gas engine or charging it every 10 miles. That was unsure. There was also a lot of -- a lot of doubt about whether any type of car like this would ever be built in this country or driven in this country. And if they were driven in this country, they would likely have been shipped over here and imported. Now these cars will say "Made in America" by American workers and bought by Americans. And that is -- that's significant. 14:46:44 I'll let those that sat in the cheap seats a year and a half ago and wanted to walk away from a million explain to everyone of those workers why they made that decision and I think, better yet, ask them, if they had that decision to do all over again, knowing that that $60 billion were on track to get paid back; knowing that there's 1 million people that are still employed; knowing that we're adding 55,000 jobs, that plants are working through what's normally a planned summer shutdown and that we're creating the jobs of the future, whether they thought the decision they made 16 or 18 months ago, different than that of the president of the United States, whether they still stand by it. QUESTION: Can I just... GIBBS: And then you should ask Mr. Limbaugh -- I don't know what kind of car he drives, but I bet it's not an F-150. QUESTION: Can I just (inaudible)? Even the president has said all along, he doesn't -- he didn't want to be in the position of running a car company and that -- and that this kind of a government -- to use whatever word, takeover, intervention, whatever -- isn't ideal. Are there things that you've got -- even in the success that you are touting now, are there regrets or things that you are trying to be careful about, in terms of not having this become a -- become a, sort of, precedent-setting thing for -- for other industries? (UNKNOWN): Yes, the president has in fact been extremely clear that he did not run for office to be -- to be taking over car companies. And I think, in fact, if you look at our behavior since the bankruptcy ended, he's been exceptionally true to that word. The administration -- nobody in the administration is directing General Motors on what to do on a day-to-day basis. We are not running these companies. And many people did assume that, if we became the owner of the company, the next thing we would do is to direct the affairs of the company. And that's exactly what we haven't done. We were very involved in the bankruptcy. We did insist on major change in management on the board of directors, and then we have very consciously stepped back. We have not intervened in these companies. And while we're very proud of their success and changing the culture the way they have, et cetera, and why we think that the president's support was essential to giving them that second chance, the fact is they are now grabbing that second chance with their hands and they are doing it. 14:49:03 So I -- we were absolutely concerned about those things, and I think we've acted in a way consistent with those concerns. GIBBS: There was a process and a structure put in place to ensure that despite the level of ownership, we were not involved in voting decisions. QUESTION: But if this thing has worked so well, I mean, do (inaudible) somebody might say why not do it for other things? I mean... GIBBS: Well, again, that's not what we're here -- that's not what the president was here to do. The president made a decision based on what we all believed were economic ramifications that were too big to walk away from. QUESTION: Mr. Bloom, I'd like to ask you how confident you are that the U.S. government is going to be repaid in full, given the improved performance in the auto industry? It's gotten -- if I could try you again on the G.M. IPO. We've reported that the filing is going to be in the week of August 16th. Could you at least talk about the timing of the filing? BLOOM: You can try me as many times as you want on the IPO. You're not going to get a different answer. And I think Robert spoke about the investment situation. The Obama administration has invested $60 billion into the automobile industry. The latest valuation from the Office of Financial Stability has the value of that investment in the aggregate at $60 billion. So that's where we are. And, you know, we haven't realized on that yet. There still has to be a process of selling the shares. Right now, the trajectory is positive. GIBBS: As you say, in terms of the -- as Ron said, there's a -- once you get to a point in an IPO, there are some good rules that the SEC has employed that we're all trying to make sure don't us called by the -- by that agency. 14:50:58 DeNies question QUESTION: Robert, you can't make jobs and you can't sell cars. I wonder how confident you are on the strength of these auto companies. Does the administration think it's appropriate to do another round of cash-for-clunkers or something similar to stimulate this sector? 14:51:04 GIBBS: Well, I don't have the exact figures with me. Look, when we talked about the decisions that were made around the structured bankruptcy, we were dealing in an economy I think where -- I think that yearly car sales were certainly less than 10 million. And, you know, this is -- that's off of a high of probably around 17 million. We're in a better environment now. I think right now it's about 11 million. (UNKNOWN): About 11.5 million. GIBBS: And so because of consumer demand, obviously, as these guys mentioned, working through that planned retooling and summer shutdown in order to meet an increased amount of customer demand, I think demonstrates, one that the economy as a whole is getting stronger -- and that pushes demand for more automobiles, and, secondly, these guys are making a profit. And so at this point, we don't -- we don't see or have plans for redoing the cash-for-clunkers program. 14:52:12 But I would say the investment that was made on that not only did that spur an enormous demand, but that took cars off the road that were, by definition, older and more of a -- more polluting and put newer, cleaner models on in their place. I will say it is hard to talk about the success of the decisions that were made in the auto industry without mentioning, again, the efforts that -- of many, including all of the auto industry and certainly efforts like -- with people like Carol Browner on the president's staff to provide certainty in emissions and -- and fuel economy. 14:53:02 The rules that were created, working with the industry, added certainty for cars and now we've added work trucks to that rule as well that, again, provided some certainty in emissions that cars -- the emission targets that cars have, as well as took the mandate that Congress passed on fuel economy and moved it up several years. GIBBS: It had been, you know, somewhere between 20 and 30 years since we'd had a substantial improvement in fuel economy. 14:53:46 The Senate finally broke that impasse in -- I think in either 2007 or 2008. Given the certainty of this rule, we were able to push the 2020 target to 2016 in a way that, again, helps our goals in reducing our dependence on foreign oil and gives auto manufacturers the certainty that they have always wanted on the manufacturing side. Yes, ma'am? QUESTION: I wanted to ask you about Charlie Rangel and whether the White House... GIBBS: Let's -- let's do autos first and then I'll -- I'll do the regular... Yes, ma'am? QUESTION: How important is this IPO (inaudible)? (inaudible) some sense of the timeline on when you're looking at (inaudible)? BLOOM: The IPO is important because almost all of our investment in General Motors today is common stock. We have $2.1 billion of preferred stock, but the vast majority of the investment is in common stock. 14:54:43 So the absolute expected way one receives value on that investment is for the company to offer its shares to the public and then for there to be a public float and then for us to be able to sell both as part of the IPO and subsequently into that public float. So it is -- it is very important and -- and as I said before, we are hopeful that it can be accomplished this year. After that, it will have -- it will remain to be determined on what schedule we can -- we can sell the rest of the shares. 14:55:15 In the Chrysler case, most of our investment is in the form of debt. There's a small investment in common stock. We are hopeful that at some point Chrysler will also be able to offer shares to the public. We don't have any visibility to that at the moment. But the debt has a maturity date of seven -- well, half at seven and half of eight years from when we made the loan. So in the current trajectory, we would expect Chrysler to pay back their loan when -- when it's due. QUESTION: You have said several times here that the $60 billion will be paid back, the Obama administration's portion of it. Why is there a distinction being made between the full amount that's been paid out of the TARP and what the Obama administration is going to be paid back -- that portion that the Obama administration (inaudible). 14:55:56 GIBBS: Well, we're not -- I was not, as you probably know, not here when the Bush administration made that... (CROSSTALK) QUESTION: When it comes to the sum total of everything that's paid out of the TARP, will there be a net benefit (inaudible)? GIBBS: No, you -- you're right that the total liability is $85 billion. Again, our goal, as you heard the president enunciate, is that the taxpayers won't be on the hook for one dime of money. That's why you heard the president talk about a financial crisis responsibility fee in order to -- in order to ensure that the taxpayers are fully paid up. I highlight the difference largely also because the criticism at the end of - 14:56:40 at the end of 2008 was -- was that you are -- you're giving -- you're giving monetary help but not asking that the companies do anything differently. Right? And -- and look, we had -- you'd watched companies go through in some cases substantial cash reserves until they got to this point. The president recognized part of the reason that we were at that point were -- were some bad management decisions. And the president required and conditioned that investment on -- on everybody making a sacrifice. So that's -- that's the reason (inaudible). QUESTION: And I guess this goes to Mr. Bloom. The Volt is said to be going to be priced around $41,000. That seems kind of high. It's a heavily subsidized, through various tax credits for the batteries and what have you, price to begin with. Is it marketable at $41,000? Is that a concern to the administration? BLOOM: Well, a couple of things. I think it is worth noting that the company will also be offering a lease of $350 a month. It's also worth noting that this is a new technology, and most times when new technologies come out, they are more expensive, and because of the president's investments in the battery industry we absolutely expect battery prices to come down over time. And finally, we do not tell General Motors what to charge for its cars. We don't tell them what to charge for the Volt. We're not going to tell them what to charge for the Cruze. General Motors has extremely competent management, supervised closely by a board of directors. We are confident they are carefully thinking through what the price of the Volt ought to be, as much as they are with the price of the Cruze or the Cadillac CTS would be. And exactly that sort of decision, back to the earlier question, is exactly what we have resisted the temptation to do. QUESTION: (inaudible) percent of the company... (CROSSTALK) QUESTION: ... and so there is a turn that it will succeed or not succeed. BLOOM: G.M. makes decisions every day about cars that they're going to sell, at least the next couple years, a lot more of than the Volt. And we -- our confidence rests in the management and the board of directors, that they will carefully weigh all those facts. And we believe General Motors is -- is broadly on a good track. GIBBS: I'll get you the -- the graph that we -- before the president went to western Michigan to do the batteries, we had a graph of -- and I'll get it for you -- that showed, as you have more and more of these made, as you streamline that process, the investment that we made that will greatly increase the number of those facilities in this country will, by definition, drive down the price breaks. QUESTION: I have a question for Mr. Montgomery: You mentioned the, what, $50 million program, $75 million program. I wonder if you could talk specifically about Detroit and what your office has been able to provide that community. And then, if you could put it in some perspective in terms of the needs of the city, which are enormous. I mean, they -- are these programs that are really having an impact on how well a community like Detroit is doing, or is this just really working around the edge? 14:59:52 MONTGOMERY: Well, you know, obviously, clearly Detroit was a distressed community and has been a distressed community for a considerable period of time. Its unemployment rate is close to 20 percent and remains there. The programs that we've talked about, the national emergency grants, there was a regional grant that went to southeast Michigan, I think around $9 million, which was dedicated to programs in the Detroit region, they were part of the $75 million -- Detroit won several of those grants -- the Detroit region won several of those grants to help those workers train. As we've said all along, we've got a long way to go. We can't be happy with the unemployment rate in the state of Michigan at over 13 percent or in Detroit in the 20 percent. But these are providing some needed resources to help auto workers and others in the community begin the process of finding jobs. QUESTION: So what more needs to be done there? What more can the federal government do going forward? Do you have recommendations for the president? MONTGOMERY: Well, you know, obviously, we want to continue what we have been doing. How do we create new jobs? How do we support small businesses? How do we create -- or who are the source of growth and how do we encourage them to hire additional workers? I think those are absolutely critical in cities like Detroit and around the Midwest. GIBBS: And let me say, I don't -- I don't think anybody believes that the auto industry alone is going to, as Ed said, bring that unemployment rate in and of itself, or only, bring that thing down. But it is also hard to imagine both the city and the state making the kind of progress that we all want it to make without an industry that is making the progress that we've seen. QUESTION: Let me go back to Mr. Bloom, please, and this question about the sticker shock on the Volt. The problem is that the Nissan Leaf is out at the same time for $33,000. So isn't -- isn't it asking a lot for an American to pay an extra $8,000 just to drive the American electric car versus the Japanese electric car? BLOOM: It works out that the lease is the same price. So you can lease the car... (CROSSTALK) BLOOM: That's -- if you've read General Motors -- if you read General Motors press release, they're prepared -- they're prepared to lease the car at the same price. QUESTION: Leasing, but not ownership. BLOOM: I'm not going to get into a debate about whether General Motors on this particular matter has the correct business strategy. There are dozens and dozens of business decisions they make every day. They believe that people will buy this car in a sufficient number that they're -- that they're manufacturing it. I think they believe that some number will lease it, and they believe some other number will buy it and use the tax credit that's available. 15:02:19 Over time, we are confident that the prices of these sorts of cars will come down. Different companies have different strategies. In the next two years, there will be 20 different either electric or hybrid or gas -- or plug-in hybrid cars hitting the road. These are the first two. This is going to be a very big, open competition. I think that's terrific. And I think what's going to result in it is more and more Americans will eventually be able to buy electric powered cars. QUESTION: Just a follow-up: As owners of this company, or at least 61 percent, wouldn't it make sense to somehow influence the cost of the Volt to make it more competitive? BLOOM: The problem with that... (CROSSTALK) BLOOM: Right. The problem with that slippery slope is it never ends, because I could equally make the argument that General Motors ought to also charge 2.6 percent less for the Cadillac or 3.1 percent less for the Cruise. Every management decision can be second guessed. And we made a very firm decision up front that either we were going to run the company day to day or we would find the finest management and most independent, hard-nosed board of directors we could and ask them to take on that responsibility. We made the latter decision. And if we violate it on one thing that seems important to us, then we will violate it on everything, and then I think we're -- then it is Government Motors. And the history of the last year is it absolutely has not been, and we intend to keep to that. QUESTION: Thanks, Robert. This is for Mr. Bloom. You and others have mentioned the figure a million jobs saved several times throughout the briefing. It's up on the monitor behind you on a graphic. And I see on the graph that you relied for that figure on the Center for Automotive Research, which is a think tank in Michigan which is funded by the auto industry. Do you think this is an objective source to come up with this particular number? BLOOM: The number is actually from the Bush administration, the Center for Automotive... QUESTION: Is that a good source? BLOOM: The Center -- I would have thought they -- you wouldn't accuse them of being too aggressive. The Center for Automotive Research, who I'd be delighted to have you talk to, has a number that's much, much higher. We're actually using the low end of a number of numbers that have been put out. QUESTION: Along the same lines as (inaudible) that have been more existential, how many years... (LAUGHTER) ... how many years, realistically, to you think it will be before the majority of American-made cars that are available for consumers are either electric or hybrid or some combination and before they're affordable, by whatever standard, $25,000 or whatever that is at the time? BLOOM: I think that is -- that's a question that really doesn't have an answer today. I think what the president did is he made a series of investments in the key technologies that drive this industry forward, which is the batteries. And as Ed mentioned, battery prices, I think most experts now believe, are going to come down at a very rapid rate. Exactly when that hits the crossover point so that most Americans want to buy an electric car, I don't think it's knowable. I think the issue for the government is, can we do things that can set the conditions for that? And I think the president by his leadership has done that. But, honestly, it's going to be private actors in the marketplace competing for market share that are going to determine that answer. But -- so I don't think we can sit here today and make a prognostication on that. Obviously, we're committed to trying to help it happen, but it's going to happen, importantly, because private sector individuals choose to put their money at risk and make these cars. GIBBS: And look, you know, in 2000 - 15:05:50 I bought a 2005 -- I bought a new Ford Escape hybrid, which in 2005 was basically as -- as a gas-electric hybrid that, if you go more than about 25 or 30 miles an hour, kicks into the sole use of the gas engine. In 2005 that was basically the cutting edge of domestically offered technology. Look, in five years you're at a point where, with the Volt, with the Focus coming on-line and other models, that the technology, the plug-in technology is rapidly advancing. And as Ron said, the more we make, the less -- the less each individual unit will cost, and therefore the less each automobile will cost. QUESTION: (inaudible) I mean if you look at everything combined, what's available, the Ford Fusion hybrid and what Honda and Toyota make and all of this, it's still just a fraction of what's sold. Do you think it's -- I know you don't want to pinpoint an exact date, but is it fair to say it's at least five years off? I mean, you're asking Americans to buy in right now to something that it will be many years before most people (inaudible). GIBBS: Yes. Well, I don't think anybody would disagree with that, excerpt, you know, if you go back -- go back just a couple of summer, you know, gas hit above $4 a gallon. My guess is you saw a lot more -- people can recall seeing a lot more Hummer H2s on the road, say, three years ago, than sort of post-late summer 2008. In fact, by and large, it's a brand that has been sold. GIBBS: Look, as -- and as the technology changes, I think more and more -- more and more people will -- will take advantage of it. Glen? Oh, do you want... (CROSSTALK) BLOOM (?): Yes, well, one other thing. I mean, for a lot of years -- and Robert pointed this out, these companies were criticized for not having long term strategic thinking. We now have these companies thinking long term. They understand this is not a next year, year after issue. This is a long-term bet that they're making on the direction of the -- of the industry. That -- that is going to take awhile to pay off. But I think we should be applauding their willingness to try to look ahead, because for a lot of years people said the companies wouldn't look ahead, they -- they always tried to fight the future. Now we have companies trying to shape the future. 15:08:31 So I'd rather be -- I'd rather criticize them for thinking less far ahead than criticizing them for thinking too far ahead. I think that's a welcome change. GIBBS: I mean, the gas prices resulted in the industry itself changing its viewpoint on increasing fuel economy standards, again something that took decades to happen but was moved along by -- by gas prices. QUESTION: Mr. Bloom, do you think it's a good idea for the federal government to buy or lease a substantial number of these Volts at this $41,000 a year price point? BLOOM: We have no particular plan to buy or lease the Volt or the Leaf. There are ongoing discussions about whether there might be an opportunity to have some -- some amount of it, but I don't think that's going to be a principal way this car is going to get introduced. QUESTION: Follow-up on what Mr. Bloom was saying, and you joined in. What assurance do you have -- does (inaudible) have that they will continue to be so forward-thinking, particularly since gas prices have come down in most parts of the country a long way from the -- a couple summers ago? BLOOM: There are no guarantees. We made -- as Robert said, the president made a decision to -- to give this company a second chance. We insisted on very substantial change in their cost structure, in their operating footprint, and in their management and board of directors, but we are not going to retain operational control to assure ourselves that everything they do meets our satisfaction, because we don't believe that's the proper role for the government. So is it possible that some day in the future General Motors will lose its way again? I think the fact that that's possible is a good thing, because that's what American companies are supposed to do. They're supposed to compete in the private marketplace. This was an intervention, and an extraordinary moment in our nation's -- in our nation's history. It was done to prevent, as Robert said, the loss of a million jobs. We are determined to exit that investment as soon as is practicable. And this company's future will be in the hands of its -- of its -- of its management, of its board of directors, of its employees, and of all the stakeholders who sacrificed. We want to get as much of the taxpayers' money back as we can, but that's not going to cause us to intervene in running the company. QUESTION: Robert? GIBBS: Yes? QUESTION: Realistically, when can the administration completely exit its investment in the auto companies? 2012? Beyond? BLOOM: I think that's not something that's knowable today. I think we're -- again, we're -- the guidance we put out which we're sticking to is as soon as practicable. And that means exactly what it says. We don't like having this investment, but we're not going to sale it at a fire sale. So we're on an orderly course. We believe General Motors can achieve an IPO this year. We remain hopeful of that. We are hopeful Chrysler will be able to achieve one at some point thereafter. We're going to take this slowly and carefully, and we're not going to be irresponsible. We recognize people don't want us to own the company. We don't want to own the company. But to do it at a fire sale, I think, is irresponsible to the taxpayers. So it's a careful walk, and we're going to walk it carefully. GIBBS: And I would say, look, I think if you travel back to the decision that the president made in the Roosevelt Room, there was no guarantee at the time in which the president made that decision that one or both of these companies would survive. I -- we recall very distinct conversations about whether or not it was slightly better than 50-50. 15:12:05 What we've seen since then, and I think this is a fair characterization, that -- where these companies are now exceeds where we believe they'd likely be at this point. And that their situation has only gotten better quarter by quarter than, again, where we thought it would be. So they've made some tough decisions. The president made some tough decisions. And now -- when we look back at both where we are and where we were, we see real sustained progress. QUESTION: Given that success story that you're describing here today, why hasn't the administration gotten more credit for stepping in and righting these companies? GIBBS: Honestly, I don't think -- I don't think the story that the president is going to embark on telling is well-known. 15:12:59 GIBBS: I don't -- I doubt many people in this room, and you guys are largely the reporters of said stories, would -- or have pointed out that, for the first time since 2004, each of the three companies in the first quarter of this year represented had an operating profit, or that, since GM emerged from bankruptcy, 55,000 jobs have been added. QUESTION: Could the administration have done a better job in, as this turnaround slowly came about, step by step, communicating that better to the public? 15:13:30 GIBBS: I -- I think we have. And I'll say this is -- the report that we're putting out on the auto industry isn't the first one. It's the -- it's the second one that we've done. I'd look forward to reading, in your newspaper tomorrow -- attention assignment editors... (LAUGHTER) ... the arc of the decision that the president made and where this -- where this industry is. The president will be here and he will tell that story. And we'll tell it to the workers who work on those lines today, because of the sacrifices that they made and the tough decisions that were made here, we're going to do an awful lot over the next week to 10 days, and I think, in all honesty, if people get a sense of what went into these decisions, 15:14:21 what resulted in the structure of bankruptcies and then what has resulted in the success of the companies up to this point, I do think there -- given all that information, I think people will look at the decision that was made at the end of March of 2009 differently. QUESTION: This is the first I've heard of a Department of Energy loan to Ford Motors (ph). Can you give us some details of (inaudible)? Why the Department of Energy, as opposed to a bank, and, you know, how much money and what... (UNKNOWN): This is under a program called the ATVM program, also known as Section 136. This loan was made I believe in excess of a year ago. It was $5.9 billion. It's been, you know, fairly well- discussed and disclosed. If this was a program that the Congress had put in place to provide funds for these companies to invest in new technologies to get -- to get more fuel-efficient. And that was the purpose of the program, and the program is ongoing. Other companies have applied for it. There was a loan to Tesla. There was a loan to Fisker. There was a loan to Nissan, which was helped -- which is part of the reason they're building the plant to make the Leaf here in the U.S. And there was a $5.9 billion loan to Ford. QUESTION: Yes, and it (inaudible)? GIBBS: You saw, probably, earlier this week, Ford unveiled the new model Explorer, which is -- is constructed on a -- not on a truck frame, which not only allows, as Ron said, fuel efficiency here in this country but attractiveness in selling that car overseas. Thank you both. Thank you. QUESTION: (OFF-MIKE) GIBBS: What is it? I... (CROSSTALK) GIBBS: Tell me again. No, I was listening. I -- but I realized that you're not talking about a new model car and was... QUESTION: The Rangel. GIBBS: Yes. (LAUGHTER) QUESTION: Is the White House disappointed there wasn't a deal reached before discussion started today? Is that -- do you think that's damaging to the party and to candidates? 15:16:41 GIBBS: Look, I -- some of this has happened while we've been up here, and I want to get some more information on where the situation is. 15:16:54 There is a -- you know, a bipartisan panel that's looking into -- into this and into these serious charges. We think that is important to do. And I don't want to prejudge that outcome. I will get some information at the end of this and see if I need to update that. QUESTION: Well, discussion started before we came in here, so -- and a deal wasn't reached. So that's not... (CROSSTALK) 15:17:22 GIBBS: Again, I -- I will wait and -- and get a full picture before I have anything additional to say. QUESTION: OK. And then let me ask you about the -- the judge's ruling on the Arizona immigration law, Republicans already starting to use it in fund-raising, but to be clear, it will be an issue of some magnitude in the elections this fall. Is that something you all are worried about, and is that something that the (inaudible) here have, kind of, a plan to deal with? 15:17:49 GIBBS: Well, look, the -- I would echo what the Justice Department said yesterday about the judge's decision. I think the judge ruled that what -- what -- and reaffirmed that the responsibility for immigration reform and for immigration law is -- rests with the federal government. 15:18:15 We all understand the frustration of Arizona and border states at this problem but believe that, instead of a patchwork of 50 state laws, that Congress has in the past and should act now to -- to enact comprehensive immigration reform. GIBBS: Look, Jennifer, in terms of the politics, the president has -- has made decisions since coming into office, autos being one of them, that he didn't -- didn't make based on polling. I think if that were the case, we'd be looking for a new pollster. The president and the Justice Department believed that what we filed was the right thing to do and the right thing to do now based on that ruling is what will be harder, and that is comprehensive immigration reform. It's been done before and it can be done again if those that are involved in this are willing to be part of the solution. And I think that's the next step. QUESTION: I understand that's your policy position and politics, you know, good policy is good politics and all that sort of thing at the end of the day. But you're not going to get comprehensive immigration reform before the November elections happen. GIBBS: Right. QUESTION: And so you've got this sort of political status quo that you're going to have to deal with in some form or fashion over the next several weeks before that voting happens. So how do you -- is there -- is there messaging? Does the president get involved in terms of talking about this? How do you deal with it as a political (inaudible)? GIBBS: Well, look, again I just -- I think we will talk about the need for everyone involved to step up and solve that problem. 15:20:10 I hope that everybody that's running for office at a federal level this fall will talk about, after the judge has ruled that this is the purview of the federal government, I hope each -- each of these candidates will discuss what they think and what the federal government must do to deal with it. And it is -- there are a lot of different components, but only enacting those components comprehensively from border security on through are we going to be able to solve this problem. And I think that's what the president will spend time talking about. Yes? QUESTION: Thanks, Robert. Since you had the monthly (inaudible)... GIBBS: Yes. Sure. QUESTION: Does the president think that the Wikileaks leak of document has put Afghan informers at risk? GIBBS: Look, I would say from General Jones's statement last Sunday, from the president's statement, and I know while we were out here, the Pentagon has -- Secretary Gates and Admiral Mullen are briefing on -- on both that situation and on the meeting today itself. We -- and I said, we believe that this has the potential to put people, our troops, those that cooperate with our efforts, into harm's way. QUESTION: (inaudible) any points in the document where people (inaudible)? GIBBS: I -- I don't want to get into -- I don't want to get into that level of that detail. I will say this, and I know this is - 15:21:46 I just want to be clear and -- we did not see any of these documents prior to their being put online. We worked with the New York Times on some questions they had. They were able to see some of the documents beforehand. And as I said earlier, I think they -- they handled this story in a responsible way. 15:22:10 But I reiterate that we have not, did not -- and did not see those documents, nor were we contacted about seeing those documents beforehand. Let me give you just a little bit of a broad read-through on what was discussed this morning. The -- this was the seventh regular meeting of the Group of Afghanistan and Pakistan. The meeting began with an update on the situation in Afghanistan where they discussed the success of the recent Kabul conference, including the absence of significant security disruptions, and the steps that were announced to move forward on strengthening governance and pursuing reintegration. General Petraeus gave a security update reviewing the progress that has been made across the country. 15:23:00 On Pakistan, the group reviewed the recent strategic dialogue that Secretary Clinton held in Pakistan, while also discussing our continued efforts to support the Pakistani military's actions against violent extremists within its -- within its borders. QUESTION: Just to come back to the Wikileaks, was there sense in the meeting that there's going to be an operational impact? GIBBS: Well, I would say that that was the... QUESTION: (inaudible) GIBBS: Our -- our sense -- I will say this, Wikileaks was not something that took up any real measurable amount of time in today's meeting. I think each of the principals, including the president, has commented on the operational security risks that 90,000-plus secret documents, classified documents being put on the Internet poses to our troops, poses to those that are cooperating in efforts to make Afghanistan and Pakistan more secure, and we'll go from there. Yes? QUESTION: Thanks, Robert. I just wanted to follow up on immigration. You seem to be saying that you acknowledge that it's highly unlikely there would be a congressional deal before the elections, but I wanted to talk about after the elections. Republican Darrell Issa yesterday, I want to acknowledge in the premise of my question that he's not the most friendly Republican to the White House, but he said on CNN and other places yesterday that he thinks there is an appetite on Capitol Hill and he included himself and said that he and other Republicans, if the president guaranteed that comprehensive reform would not have amnesty, he thinks that there would be some Republicans who would come on board with a guest worker program. I just wonder how you react to that, whether you think that is sincere, that there are Republicans -- because on other issues, as you've noted, they haven't worked with you. Do you think that there's a sincere chance here? GIBBS: Well, I don't know -- I do if -- look, and I said this to Jennifer, this is - 15:24:53 it's not unthinkable that progress can be made on this issue because it has been made on this issue in the past. Now, was that a time in which Republicans worked a little bit more closely with Democrats? The answer to that obviously is yes. 15:25:12 I haven not seen what Congressman Issa supported in the past. I would suggest, Ed, we can't -- we cannot deal with immigration reform comprehensively without dealing with those that are here. I don't know what his plans are for that. I know the president has outlined comprehensively, and again Republicans in the past have worked on that. It is the president's sincere hope that out of this decision and out of the understandable frustration of those that are dealing with this problem locally each and every day that we can make real progress on dealing with this tough issue. And look, we've all -- we have all watched this issue play out over the past five years. This was not just -- you know, I remember going through Iowa and having caucus goers asking the president tough questions about immigration. 15:26:23 But I think if we all work together and work together honestly, I think progress can be made. QUESTION: Two other quick things. Shirley Sherrod -- the president mentioned her today. And since her firing and then the apology, some Republicans, including Congressman Steve King of Iowa, have raised these allegations that Shirley Sherrod got a government payout as part of a previous settlement with black farmers. They seem to think there is some sort of connection between that and her getting a political appointment to the USDA last year. Do you know any details of that? And do you think... (CROSSTALK) GIBBS: There's no connection that I'm aware of certainly. No. QUESTION: OK. And then on -- finally, on the president's unemployment event a couple of days back, a local TV station in Charlottesville is now saying that one of the people that the president held up as an example is Leslie Macko, and he said that she's somebody who we need to extend unemployment compensation benefits for people like Leslie. QUESTION: And the station is reporting that she was convicted of prescription drug fraud in March of 2009, about a month before she lost her job. And I wonder, was the White House aware of this before they brought her out to use her as an example? And do you do any sort of background check? 15:27:38 GIBBS: I don't know the circumstances around this particular event. I certainly -- I've seen -- I saw a couple of news reports before I came out here. Without knowing a lot, I would certainly say that had that type of information been known, I doubt seriously -- she would not have participated in the event here. I hope that doesn't take away from -- and I don't think it should take away from the message the president had that day that as -- in the midst of the greatest economic calamity that we've seen since the Great Depression, that we ought not take steps together to extend unemployment insurance to those that are out of work. QUESTION: But are you examining your policies? Is there a background check that's done. GIBBS: I don't know the specifics. Again, it's safe to say that had we known it, she wouldn't have been on stage. De NIES QUESTION QUESTION: Robert, the president talked extensively at the Urban League and also on "The View" about this whole -- about Shirley Sherrod, about talking about race. Now Ms. Sherrod says she's going to sue Andrew Breitbart. I wonder, does the White House that that suit is justified. And also, how does that... 15:28:49 GIBBS: I -- I -- I will excuse myself from that based on the fact that I have -- I'm not a lawyer. Even if I was, I wouldn't -- I don't know why I would get into answering questions about one citizen's decision to sue another. QUESTION: But how does that play into the whole narrative, to the whole teachable moment? I mean, if you have an incident like this and it turns into a lawsuit, surely that doesn't play into what the White House hopes comes out of an event like this? GIBBS: Well, look, I'm not going to speak for the actions of the individual that put up a video that clearly was heavily edited to the point of not showing the end of the story. 15:29:25 But I'm not going to get into the legal back and forth of this. QUESTION: But if this... GIBBS: No, no, but let's understand this. 15:29:34 Regardless of the lawsuit or who wins or who files it or where it's heard, that's not the -- I don't know how that detracts from the fact that, as the president has said since that and reiterated in the past couple days, that it is important to listen to all of what people have to say, to hear their entire story before making a judgment. I don't -- I don't think that is changed at all by legal decisions that are made around that. That's -- that is still -- that's still the lesson that someone should take from all this. 15:30:17 And I don't know -- I don't know why you wouldn't take that lesson based on the fact that somebody made a legal decision. QUESTION: But because this was an administration employee by fact that this person actually worked for the USDA, so that -- the president stepped in with Henry Louis Gates and held the beer something in something that he was much less involved in. Is it appropriate then, so that this does not descend into a lawsuit, for him to hold some kind of a conversation on race or to do something to mitigate this so that we're not talking about this forever? GIBBS: We're not talking about what forever? The lawsuit? QUESTION: We're having this back and forth between Sherrod and Breitbart. GIBBS: The president got 60 or close to 60 million votes not to be somebody's chief legal adviser, but to be the commander in chief and to run the affairs of the United States of America. Individuals can -- can and should make their own legal decisions regardless of who their employer is. QUESTION: Robert, that's not what she's saying. You were brought -- this administration was brought into it, in the weeds of this, because of your reaction. GIBBS: But I'm -- I'm -- I'm -- I would not get involved in - 15:31:24 if a federal employee had been dismissed from federal service, got into a car and... QUESTION: Or resigned. GIBBS: Or however, and got into a car accident that they believed they should sue about, why would the -- why would the president or the administration get involved in that? QUESTION: But this administration... GIBBS: No, no, no... (CROSSTALK) QUESTION: ... is part of the casualty of this Breitbart... GIBBS: Hold on. Why would the president... QUESTION: ... highly -- heavily edited video tape... GIBBS: Why would the president or the administration get involved in that lawsuit? QUESTION: Because you are -- this administration is part of the... GIBBS: When we'd get involved in that lawsuit? QUESTION: No. This... GIBBS: I just... QUESTION: What I'm saying is, you've been... (CROSSTALK) GIBBS: I appreciate it. I'm happy to talk about what the president talked about. The president -- I just want to be clear -- doesn't work for the Legal Services Administration, OK? 15:31:58 He doesn't provide legal advice to employees of the administration. I wouldn't ask the president legal advice on something that I was doing. I don't... QUESTION: Would you consider yourself a casualty of this Breitbart tape, what happened here? GIBBS: I think, as I said in the days past it, I thought the administration acted rashly. I think the media in moving this story quickly acted rashly. I think people probably based on that video came to conclusions about what was or wasn't said rashly. I said that all a week ago. QUESTION: But if the conversation on race is worth having for Henry Louis Gates, why is it not worth having and being a leader on that now? GIBBS: I -- I don't think the president has to be the teacher at every teachable moment. I hope you can look at what happened and discern the lessons that one should take away from it without having to have the president tell you what to take away from it. QUESTION: They're still fighting. GIBBS: Who's still fighting? QUESTION: Shirley Sherrod and Breitbart. GIBBS: You know, I assume that that's going to happen -- I don't understand how that's part of -- I don't understand how that's part of what you take away from -- that now is what you take away from this whole moment? QUESTION: What I take away from it is irrelevant. I just want... GIBBS: No, no, no. You posed the question, let's delve into what you -- you've said that the teachable moment is now erased based on the fact that one person has decided to take legal action. Does that erase the teachable moment that you took away from this individual's circumstance? QUESTION: Absolutely not. But I wonder if... (CROSSTALK) GIBBS: I don't think it takes away from most people's teachable moment. QUESTION: ... were based on -- I'm sorry. GIBBS: Again, I think the president has spoken about what he takes away from it. I hope you take away something from it, without necessarily having to speak to the president about it. I think we can all come to our own reasonable conclusions about it. QUESTION: I take it the president's not planning a major speech on racism... (LAUGHTER) 15:34:15 GIBBS: I -- if he does, he'll (inaudible) to use a lawyer beforehand. QUESTION: Well, is the president -- the president -- do you have anything on the Arlington Cemetery situation? The Claire McCaskill investigation now finding that it's not 211 graves that have been displaced or misnamed but 6,600 possibly, a major scandal. GIBBS: Well, look, I -- I said this when it was thought to be the lower number. And I think it remains true with the shocking numbers that we're now seeing, that what has happened here is completely unacceptable. Arlington Cemetery is the hallowed ground and resting place for those that have bravely served our country, and they deserve far better than the treatment that they received. Secretary McHugh has made correct personnel changes and the former superintendent has taken responsibility for what happened. But what did happen is not acceptable, and should not happen. QUESTION: Is the president aware of this (inaudible). GIBBS: The president's -- the president has -- has seen reports about this and shares -- rightly shares the opinion that what happened is unacceptable. QUESTION: (inaudible) a firing offense somewhere now? GIBBS: Well, again, the superintendent has taken responsibility, and Secretary McHugh has -- has -- has fired many people. QUESTION: A quick question on Sherrod -- I guess she told OMB she was -- she wasn't sure if she's ready to decide if she'd accept the new job. And one of her concerns was that there was no budget for this office. Can you allay those concerns? GIBBS: I would point you to -- the USDA has been talking to her, and they're the ones who offered her the job. Again, I think it is, as you heard the president say and as you heard the secretary of agriculture say, she has unique experiences that would -- that would be valuable in this government. QUESTION: The job offer is (inaudible)? GIBBS: Again, I -- (inaudible) it's Secretary Vilsack's offer. QUESTION: OK. On the tax cut, you know, the president has often said in the past, on the Bush tax cuts, that they're tax cuts for the richest and they weren't paid for. QUESTION: My question to you is: Do you plan to extend the Bush tax cuts for the middle class? Do you have a plan to pay for those? GIBBS: The president believes that those tax cuts should be extended. They -- we will work with Congress on how to do that. The president believes we cannot not -- we cannot afford to raise taxes right now on the middle class, but that we cannot afford to add in addition to -- add to our deficit an additional $700 billion for the high-end Bush tax cuts. QUESTION: But as far as the middle class is concerned, he's OK with not paying for it -- not (inaudible)? GIBBS: Well, again, we -- we believe that it would be wrong right now to raise taxes on the middle class. QUESTION: And if that means deficit spending, so be it? GIBBS: That means -- if that means deficit spending, that's what it means. But I think that's exactly why the president has drawn the line on $700 billion in additional tax cuts for those that are the wealthiest among us. I will say this. It was Republicans' belief only a few weeks ago that you didn't have to pay for any of this. QUESTION: But can you make -- I mean, can you make a consistent argument why deficit spending is OK for the middle class but not OK for the wealthy? I mean (inaudible) value judgment essentially? 15:38:25 GIBBS: No, because the economic situation that we're in, the middle class has long before December 2007 taken a hit. They're jobs have been lost. They're working longer hours for less pay. And it wouldn't make sense to raise taxes on the middle class. That's why the president believes we should extend those tax cuts, but not those for high-income earners. Yes, ma'am? QUESTION: You touched on this before, but why do you think the public is less supportive of the auto bailout now than they were a year ago? GIBBS: Again, I -- I don't -- I don't -- I said this earlier, I don't think people know the whole story. I think the president will tell that whole story and I think people should make an evaluation off of that. QUESTION: Is it the term "bailout" that you think they're reacting to? 15:39:15 GIBBS: Again, I don't -- I haven't seen the polling, but I would say that I think having an understanding of the whole story gives you a better understanding of what's happened. QUESTION: Thank you, Robert. And also, is the White House concerned that B.P. is pushing to hold hearings in Houston rather than New Orleans? The government wants the hearings in New Orleans (inaudible). GIBBS: I -- let me see if I can find something on that and I'll get back. QUESTION: Thanks, Robert. You know, a growing number of people have started call on the administration not to defend what the president refers to as the so- called "Defense of Marriage" Act, including Steve Hildebrand last week and the Human Rights Campaign, which is the largest LGBT community lobby. And quite frankly, it's usually fairly favorable towards the administration, so it was a turnaround for them to call on the administration not to offend (ph) that law. The president has called DOMA "discriminatory." Does the president believe that a discriminatory law is constitutional? 15:40:22 GIBBS: I -- I don't -- the president hasn't, to the best of my -- I have not heard the president intone what he believes the constitutionality of the law is. I know he believes that the law should be changed. The legal decisions around the next steps in that case I believe will be made at the Justice Department, and I would point you over there to them. Again, the president believes -- in this case, the president believes in the case of "don't ask-don't tell" that those are laws that he has believed for quite some time should be changed. QUESTION: The ACLU issued a report today warning that the administration risks institutionalizing what it describes as some of the worst national security policies put in place by the Bush administration, such as indefinite detention, military commissions and a targeted killing program. And I'm just wondering how you would respond to that? GIBBS: Well, let's take military commission as an example. I don't know if the report evaluates military commissions that existed either before the court struck them down or whether or not they take into account the reforms that the administration worked with Congress to change. 15:41:41 I think they are very different evaluations. I'm reminded that, at almost every opportunity, somebody, I think wrongly, suggests that our policies are markedly different from -- or our policies are such that they won't keep us safe, and criticize the positions that the president has taken. So it's ironic now that, in the same argument, there's somebody who says they're completely the same. QUESTION: Robert, the president tonight has another closed fund- raiser. It's not going to be open to the press. Is this part of a trend? I mean, in the interest of transparency... 15:42:26 GIBBS: Look, I -- this has been our practice since the campaign. And that is, if the president makes formal remarks, that it's either an open -- a full, open event or open to a pool. And if it's not open, it's because the president's not making remarks. QUESTION: He hasn't been making any sort of remarks at these... (CROSSTALK) GIBBS: The president hasn't make formal remarks, no. QUESTION: How -- how is the U.S. attempting to monitor who's read the Wikileaks (inaudible)? 15:42:56 GIBBS: I -- I'll point you to the Pentagon, who also won't answer your question. (LAUGHTER) QUESTION: And then hung up (OFF-MIKE). (LAUGHTER) No, is the U.S. or NATO -- any NATO partners in the position of considering offering asylum in any way to some of the cooperating parties in Afghanistan who may now be in trouble? GIBBS: I -- again, I don't know if this comes up in Secretary Gates's briefing today, but they may have an answer on that. QUESTION: Quickly, to follow on some of the questions on what the public doesn't understand about auto, could the same thing be said about TARP, about stimulus, about a lot of the steps we've taken where the benefits are (inaudible) as, to, sort of, what... (CROSSTALK) GIBBS: Yes. QUESTION: ... you have, sort of, three months to tell that story, in all of those cases, not just on auto? GIBBS: Well, look, I think, on each -- look, I'd start with a story I think a number of you all covered, and that is, what had happened had these actions not been taken? You all are familiar with the graph that I usually show you all that shows a dip in employment that equals to between 8 million and 8.5 million jobs, right? DISC CHANGE: 711 15:44:06 Two economists, one a former Fed vice chair, the other the principal economic adviser for the presidential campaign of John McCain, in a paper a couple of days ago, said, were it not for these steps, that graph wouldn't extend to 8 million or 8.5 million jobs but twice that level, that I think anybody would admit that losing 16 million jobs over the course of a two-and-a-half-year recession would have put us into an economic depression. QUESTION: But does the public not understand that? GIBBS: Well, look, I think it's always -- I think it's always challenging to explain to people actions that were taken that you didn't -- that didn't necessarily garner a lot of publicity because -- or ended something from happening or making it worse. 15:45:07 I mean, look, I think a good example is when was the last time you guys did a story on H1N1? You didn't because we took a number of steps and were fortunate enough not to have an epidemic of the proportions that we might have faced. The challenge will be to continue to tell the story of the important and tough decisions that the president made and the benefits to those decisions. I think part of this will happen when more and more people find work, when more and more people find economic stability in their lives. But I think it will continue to be a struggle for -- to create that type of recovery when the Senate does what it did today, and that is employ the same tired, partisan tactics that the American people are sick and tired of to hold up a small-business bill that cuts capital gains taxes to zero, increases the deductions that small- business can make on investing in equipment, and helps provide capital to community banks to loan to small businesses. Again, if you had a nickel for every time on Capitol Hill you heard, "Let's help small business," you'd be among the wealthiest people in this country. So why on earth does cutting capital gains taxes, increasing the money we lend to small business and increasing the amount they can deduct based on their investments in new equipment, why on earth would that fall prey to the same old tired partisan politics unless one side was much more concerned about playing politics than it is about helping this economy along. 15:47:01 That's -- that is the fight that this president has had to wage in many cases since the very, very beginning of his administration. He will continue to make the tough decisions, and I hope that those that are more interested in playing politics rather than helping small businesses get the help they need, I assume they'll hear from their constituents about how unproductive that really is. Thanks, guys. END .ETX

WASH 7 AIPAC AFTERNOON SESSION HEAD ON POOL C16 032116 WASH 8 AIPAC AFTERNOON SESSION SWITCH POOL C16 032116 TED CRUZ 19:02:59 >> God bless aipac. [ Cheers and applause ] I'm thrilled to be here with you today. And let me say at the outset, perhaps to the surprise of a previous speaker, palestine has not existed since 1948. [ Cheers and applause ] On Wednesday night of this week, in synagogues across the world, jewish people will read the magila, which tells the story of purim, the miraculous rescue. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:03:48 The miraculous rescue of the jewish people from the hands of a wicked persian king. When the evil doer Haman plots to kill the Jews, he describes them as a nation that is scattered and spread out. The town that (?) teaches that the jewish people at the time were divided amongst themselves, and that the lesson is that when the forces of good are divided, evil can prevail. But when we come together in unity together, we can defeat tyrants. Today we are reliving history. Facing a similar time of challenge for America, and for Israel. But today I give you a word of hope. In the next few months, we will bring this country together, first by unifying the Republican party, and then by reaching out and building a coalition of young people and hispanics and African-Americans and women and blue collar workers and jewish voters and Reagan Democrats. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:05:07 Which will lead to a commanding victory in November that unifies this country and brings us together. [ Applause ] And standing together, America will stand with Israel and defeat radical islamic terrorism. [ Cheers and applause ] I want to thank the delegates, the over 18,000 people here, the 4,000 young people, the leaders of the pro-Israel movement who are gathered here today. [ Applause ] You will play a critical leadership role in making this happen, and bringing us together. 19:05:50 Indeed, just today, my colleague Lindsay Graham very kindly hosted an event for me here, which should allay any doubts anyone might have that the god of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob can still do miracles. [ Laughter ] I want to begin by asking all of us to remember Taylor Force, a texan who hailed from Lubbock, an eagle scout, a west point graduate, an army veteran.On March 8th he was stabbed to death by a Palestinian terrorist in Israel. The terrorist didn't ask for his passport. Influenced by the relentless campaign of incitement that has fostered genocidal hatred toward Jews, all he cared about was injuring or killing as many civilians as possible. At least ten people were wounded by the time the terrorist was neutralized. The brutal murder of Taylor Force is yet another reminder that America and Israel are in the fight together against radical islamic terrorism. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:07:07 We need a president who will be a champion for America. And we need a president who will be a champion for Israel. [ Cheers and applause ] In my time in the senate, I have endeavored to do both. In the four years I've been serving in the senate, I've been privileged to travel three times to the state of Israel. I had the great privilege of seeing the (?) hospital in northern Israel where they have treated over 1,000 refugees from Syria, wounded in that horrible Syrian civil war, have done so free of charge, showing the heart and character of the people of Israel. 19:08:01 [ Cheers and applause ] When the nation of Iran named as their ambassador to the united nations, Hamid Abuddalabi (sp?), a known terrorist who participated in holding Americans hostage in the late 1970s, people in Washington said there was nothing we could do. Well, I was proud to introduce legislation barring Abuddalabi (sp?) from coming to America.That legislation passed the senate 100 to nothing. It passed the house 435 to nothing. And it was signed into law by president Obama. [ Cheers and applause ] [ Cheers and applause ] When Israel was facing relentless rocket attacks from hamas, and the prayers of all of us, and people across the world were with Israel, prime minister Netanyahu powerfully observed, we are using missile defense to protect our civilians. And they are using their civilians to protect their missiles. I entirely agree with prime minister Netanyahu, as hamas would place rockets in elementary schools. They placed their headquarters in the basement of a hospital. And I would note, that Hillary Clinton, in 2014, explained this as follows. Quote, "hamas puts its missiles, its rockets in civilian areas. Part of it is because gaza's pretty small. And it's densely populated." Well, madam secretary, with all respect, the reason the missiles are in schools is not because gaza is small. The reason the missiles are in schools is because hamas are terrorist monsters using children as human shields. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:10:08 And in response to this atrocity, I was proud to join with New York Democrat kirsten Gillibrand in authoring a resolution condemning hamas' use as human shields as a war crime, and that resolution passed both houses of congress unanimously. [ Cheers and applause ] In the midst of these rocket attacks, we saw the Obama administration cancel civilian airline flights into the nation of Israel. When that happened, I publicly asked the question, did this administration just launch an economic boycott on the nation of Israel. [ Cheers and applause ] The administration does not ban flights into Pakistan, does not ban flights into Yemen, does not ban flights into Afghanistan. Indeed, did not ban flights into much of Ukraine. And Ukraine had just seen a passenger airliner shot down by a Russian buk missile. So why exactly was a disproportionate sanction put on Israel, because one rocket fell harmlessly a mile away from magaria (sp?) airport, one of the safest airports in the world. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:11:25 And why was that time to coincide with John Kerry arriving in the Middle East with $47 million for gaza that would inevitably end up with hamas terrorists. [ Applause ] When I asked that question, within hours the state department was being asked, is this an economic boycott of Israel? The state department said, that question is ridiculous. We refuse to answer. So I responded, fine, I will place a hold on every nominee to the state department. [ Cheers and applause ] Shortly thereafter, former new York mayor Michael Bloomberg rode a civilian airliner from London to tel aviv demonstrating that it was safe to fly to Israel. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:12:18 And as a result of mayor Bloomberg's efforts and my efforts and that of millions of others, the heat and light and attention became too much on this administration, and within 36 hours, the administration lifted its ban on civilian air flights to Israel. [ Cheers and applause ] Looking forward, as president, I will lead very, very differently from the current administration. [ Cheers and applause ] Imagine just a few years ago, if I had come to an aipac conference and suggested that the prime minister of Israel was going to come to America, address a joint session of congress, and he would be boycotted by the president of the United States, the vice president of the United States, and every member of the cabinet. That would have been dismissed as crazy, fanciful. That could never happen. And sadly, that is exactly what did happen when prime minister Netanyahu came to address congress. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:13:30 In a similar vein, my leading Republican opponent has promised that he as president would be neutral between Israel and the Palestinians. Let me be very, very clear, as president, I will not be neutral. [ Cheers and applause ] America will stand unapologetically with the nation of Israel. [ Cheers and applause ] So what does that mean specifically? Let's start with today's persian king, the nation of Iran. Both Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump have said they would maintain this Iranian deal, although Donald has promised, he's going to negotiate and get a better deal. Well, my view is very different. On the first day in office, I will rip this catastrophic Iranian nuclear deal to shreds. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:14:48 This agreement gives over $100 billion to the ayatollah khomeini, the world's state sponsor of terrorism. That dwarfs the $3 billion in military aid that we give each year to the nation of Israel. That difference is not just unconscionable, it is fundamentally immoral. And if I am president, on the first day, we will reimpose sanctions on Iran. [ Cheers and applause ] In a mockery of this Iranian nuclear deal, Iran has continued with missile tests, including launching a missile with the words printed on it in both hebrew and farsi, Israel should be wiped from the Earth. Hear my words, ayatollah khomeini, if I am president, and Iran launches a missile test, we will shoot that missile down. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:15:55 And in January 2017, we will have a commander in chief who says, under no circumstances will Iran be allowed to acquire nuclear weapons, either you will shut down your nuclear program or we'll shut it down for you. [ Cheers and applause ] A year ago, when prime minister Netanyahu addressed congress, I was honored to join the great Ali wizel on a panel discussion in the senate about this disastrous Iranian deal. Not a single Democrat was willing to join Ali wezel. To sit alongside someone who witnessed firsthand the horrors of the holocaust. Who brings a moral weight and gravity second to none. It was both powerful and humbling. And I am convinced after this election, the American people will stand and say together, never again means never again. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:17:13 On my very first day in office, I will begin the process of moving the American embassy in Israel to Jerusalem, the once and eternal capital of Israel. [ Cheers and applause ] Now, I recognize for years a whole lot of presidential candidates, both Republicans and Democrats, have said that indeed I recognize some candidates have said that standing here today. Here's the difference. I will do it. [ Cheers and applause ] And as president, I will do everything in my power to ensure that anyone who provides financial support to the bds movement, including schools and universities, will lose any access to federal funding. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:18:22 And to the extent that they have engaged in illegal behavior, they will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. [ Cheers and applause ] All of us here understand that Israel is not the barrier to peace. It is the Palestinian authority, and a so-called unity government with hamas that celebrates the murder of women and children, and incites and even compensates the terrorist attacks. If the Palestinians try to push through a united nations resolution to unilaterally declare Palestinian statehood, America will veto that resolution. [ Cheers and applause ] Indeed, I tell you today, I will fly to New York to personally veto it myself. [ Cheers and applause ] Now, some have asked, why on Earth did a cuban-american texan become one of the leading defenders of Israel in the United States congress? Well, I would say there are several reasons. First of all, I understand that standing with Israel benefits America. [ Applause ] Israel is a liberal democracy that shares our values. Israel is a steadfast and loyal ally. 19:20:08 And our military aid to Israel is not charity. It is rather furthering the vital national security interests of the United States of America, whether it is missile defense, from iron dome to David sling, or whether it is intelligence and military cooperation, Israel provides an enormous benefit to keeping America safe and protecting us from radical islamic terrorists. [ Cheers and applause ] But on a very personal level, for me, much of my view of Israel is framed in my family story. 19:20:51 My father was born and raised in Cuba. As a kid, he fought in the Cuban revolution. He was imprisoned, he was tortured.My father fled Cuba in 1957. When he came to America, he had nothing. He had $100 sewn into his underwear. And he washed dishes, making 50 cents an hour. He paid his way through school, he went on to start a small business. When I was a kid, my dad used to say to me over and over again, when I faced oppression in Cuba,I had a place to flee to. 19:21:26 If we lose our freedom here, where do we go. And I will tell you, it is an incredible blessing to be the child of an immigrant who fled oppression and came to America seeking freedom. And there is one other nation on Earth like the United States of America that was created as an oasis, as a beacon of hope to people who had faced oppression, had faced horrible murder and persecution, the nation of Israel, like America, is a beacon of light unto the world. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:22:13 And all of us here understand, as Ronald Reagan did, that peace is achievable only through strength. This is what Israel understands, when you surrounded by neighbors who would drive you into the sea, somehow you don't have time for political correctness. [ Applause ] Weakness is provocative. Appeasement increases the chance of military conflict. Indeed, I believe this Iranian nuclear deal is Munich in 1938, and we risk once again catastrophic consequences to allowing a homicidal maniac to acquire tools to murder millions. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:23:06 The way to avoid conflict is to stand up to bullies. And it is worth remembering that this same nation, Iran, in 1981, released our hostages the day Ronald Reagan was sworn into office. [ Cheers and applause ] That is the difference a strong commander in chief can make, and together standing as one, we can and will. Do it again. Thank you. DONALD TRUMP 18:30:37 >> Good evening. Thank you very much. I speak to you today as a lifelong supporter and true friend of Israel. [ Cheers and applause ] I'm a newcomer to politics. But not to backing the jewish state. [ Applause ] In 2001, weeks after the attacks on New York City, and on Washington, and, frankly, the attacks on all of us, attacks that perpetrated, and they were perpetrated by the islamic fundamentalists, mayor Rudy Giuliani visited Israel to show solidarity with terror victims. 18:31:24 I sent my plane, because I backed the mission for Israel 100%. [ Cheers and applause ] In spring of 2004, at the height of the violence in the gaza strip, I was the grand marshal of the 40th salute to Israel parade, the largest single gathering in support of the jewish state. [ Applause ] It was a very dangerous time for Israel, and frankly, for anyone supporting Israel. Many people turned down this honor. I did not. I took the risk, and I'm glad I did. [ Cheers and applause ] But I didn't come here tonight to pander to you about Israel. That's what politicians do. All talk, no action, believe me. 18:32:30 [ Applause ] I came here to speak to you about where I stand on the future of American relations with our strategic ally, our unbreakable friendship, and our cultural brother. The only democracy in the middle East, the state of Israel. 18:32:57 [ Cheers and applause ] Thank you. My number one priority is to dismantle the disastrous deal with Iran. [ Cheers and applause ] Thank you. Thank you. I have been in business a long time. I know deal making. And let me tell you, this deal is catastrophic.For America, for Israel, and for the whole of the Middle East. [ Applause ] The problem here is fundamental. We've rewarded the world's leading state sponsor of terror with $150 billion, and we received absolutely nothing in return. [ Cheers and applause ] I've studied this issue in great detail. I would say actually greater by far than anybody else. Believe me. Oh, believe me. And it's a bad deal.The biggest concern with the deal is not necessarily that Iran is going to violate it, because already, you know, as you know, it has. The bigger problem is that they can keep the terms and still get the bomb by simply running out the clock. 18:34:34 And of course, they'll keep the billions and billions of dollars that we so stupidly and foolishly gave them. [ Applause ] The deal doesn't even require Iran to dismantle its military nuclear capability. Yes, it places limits on its military nuclear program, for only a certain number of years, but when those restrictions expire, Iran will have an industrial size military nuclear capability ready to go, and with zero provision for delay, no matter how bad Iran's behavior is. Terrible, terrible situation that we are all placed in, and especially Israel. [6:35:41 PM] 18:35:28 When I'm president, I will adopt a strategy that focuses on three things when it comes to Iran. First, we will stand up to Iran's aggressive push to destabilize and dominate the region. [ Applause ] Iran is a very big problem, and will continue to be. But if I'm not elected president, I know how to deal with trouble. And believe me, that's why I'm going to be elected president, folks. 18:36l07 And we are leading in every poll, remember that, please. Iran is a problem in Iraq, a problem in Syria, a problem in Lebanon, a problem in Yemen, and will be a very, very major problem for Saudi Arabia. Literally, every day Iran provides more and better weapons to support their puppet states. Hezbollah, Lebanon received, and I'll tell you what, it has received sophisticated anti-ship weapons, anti-aircraft weapons, and gps systems and rockets like very few people anywhere in the world, and certainly very few countries have. Now they're in Syria trying to establish another front against Israel from the Syrian side of the Golan heights. 18:37:00 In gaza, Iran is supporting hamas, and islamic jihad. And in the west bank, they're openly offering Palestinians $7,000 per terror attack, and $30,000 for every Palestinian terrorist home that's been destroyed. A deplorable, deplorable situation Iran is financing military forces throughout the middle East, and it's absolutely incredible that we handed them over $150 billion to do even more toward the many horrible acts of terror. 18:37:50 [ Applause ] Secondly, we will totally dismantle Iran's global terror network, which is big and powerful, but not powerful like us. [ Cheers and applause ] Iran has seeded terror groups all over the world. During the last five years, Iran has perpetuated terror attacks in 25 different countries on five continents. They've got terror cells everywhere, including in the western hemisphere very close to home. Iran is the biggest sponsor of terrorism around the world, and we will work to dismantle that reach, believe me. Believe me. 18:38:42 Third, at the very least, we must enforce the terms of the previous deal to hold Iran totally accountable, and we will enforce it like you've never seen a contracted enforced before, folks. Believe me. 18:39:02 Iran has already, since the deal is in place, test-fired ballistic missiles three times. Those ballistic missiles with a range of 1,250 miles were designed to intimidate, not only Israel, which is only 600 miles away, but also intended to frighten Europe and some day maybe hit even the united States. And we're not going to let that happen. We're not letting it happen. And we're not letting it happen to Israel, believe me. [ Cheers and applause ] Thank you. Thank you. 18:39:49 Do you want to hear something really shocking? As many of the great people in this room know, painted on those missiles in both hebrew and farsi Were the words Israel must be wiped off the face of the Earth. You can forget that. [ Cheers and applause ] 18:40:10 What kind of demented minds write that in hebrew. And here's another, you talk about twisted? Here's another twisted part. Testing these missiles does not even violate the horrible deal that we've made. The deal is silent on test missiles. But those tests do violate the United Nations security council resolutions. The problem is, no one has done anything about it. We will. We will, I promise, we will. [ Cheers and applause ] 18:40:51 Thank you. Which brings me to my next point. The utter weakness and incompetence of the United Nations -- [ cheers and applause ] The United Nations is not a friend of democracy. It's not a friend to freedom. It's not a friend even to the United States of America, where as you know, it has its home. And it surely is not a friend to Israel. [ Cheers and applause ] With president Obama and his final year -- yea! [ Cheers and applause ] 18:42:11 He may be the worst thing to ever happen to Israel, believe me. Believe me. And you know it. And you know it better than anybody. So with the president in his final year, discussions have been swirling about an attempt to bring a security council resolution on terms of an eventual agreement between Israel and Palestine. Let me be clear. An agreement imposed by the United Nations would be a total and complete disaster. [ Cheers and applause ] The United States must oppose this resolution, and use the power of our veto which I will use as president 100%. [ Cheers and applause ] When people ask why, it's because that's not how you make a deal. Deals are made when parties come together. They come to a table and they negotiate. Each side must give up something. It's values -- I mean, we have to do something where there's value in exchange for something that it requires. That's what a deal is. 18:43:34 A deal is really something that when we impose it on Israel and Palestine, we bring together a group of people that come up with something that's not going to happen with the United nations. It will only further, very importantly, it will only further delegitimize Israel. It will be a catastrophe and a disaster for Israel. It's not going to happen, folks. [ Cheers and applause ] And further, it would reward Palestinian terrorism, because every day they're stabbing Israelis, and even Americans. Just last week, American tailor Allen Force, a west point grad, phenomenal young person who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, was murdered in the street by a knife-wielding Palestinian. You don't reward behavior like that. You cannot do it. [ Cheers and applause ] 18:44:42 There's only one way you treat that kind of behavior. You have to confront it. [ Applause ] So it's not up to the united nations to really go with a solution, it's really the parties that must negotiate a resolution themselves. They have no choice.They have to do it themselves, or it will never hold up anyway. The United States can be useful as a facilitator of negotiations, but no one should be telling Israel that it must be -- and really, that it must abide by some agreement made by others thousands of miles away, that don't even really know what's happening to Israel, to anything in the area. It's so preposterous. We're not going to let that happen. [ Cheers and applause ] 18:45:45 When I'm president, believe me, I will veto any attempt by the U.N. To impose its will on the jewish state. It will be vetoed 100%. [ Cheers and applause ] You see, I know about deal making. That's what I do. I wrote the art of the deal. One of the best-selling all-time, and I mean seriously, I'm saying one of, because I'll be criticized when I say "The" so I'll be very diplomatic. I'll be criticized. I think it is number one, but why take a chance. [ Laughter ] One of the all-time best-selling books about deals and deal-making, to make a great deal, you need two willing participants. We know Israel is willing to deal. Israel has been trying -- 18:46:47 >> That's right. Israel has been trying to sit down at the negotiating table without preconditions for years. You had camp David in 2000, where prime minister Barak made an incredible offer, maybe even too generous. Arafat rejected it. In 2008, prime minister Omer made an equally generous offer. The Palestinian authority rejected it also. Then John Kerry tried to come up with a framework, and Abbas didn't even respond. Not even to the secretary of state of the United States of America. They didn't even respond. When I become president, the days of treating Israel like a second-class citizen will end, on day one. [ Cheers and applause ] 18:47:6 And when I say something, I mean it. I mean it. I will meet with prime minister Netanyahu immediately. I have known him for many years. And we'll be able to work closely together to help bring stability and peace to Israel, and to the entire region. Meanwhile, every single day you have rampant incitement and children being taught to hate Israel, and to hate the Jews, it has to stop. [ Applause ] When you live in a society where the firefighters are the heroes, little kids want to be firefighters. When you live in a society where athletes and movie stars are heroes, little kids want to be athletes and movie stars. In Palestinian society, the heroes are those who murder Jews. We can't let this continue. We can't let this happen any longer. [ Applause ] [ Cheers and applause ] 18:49:08 You cannot achieve peace if terrorists are treated as martyrs. Glorifying terrorists is a tremendous barrier to peace. It is a horrible, horrible way to think. It's a barrier that can't be broken. That will end, and it will end soon, believe me. [ Cheers and applause ] In Palestinian textbooks and mosques, you've got a culture of hatred that has been fermenting there for years. And if we want to achieve peace, they've got to go out, and they've got to start this educational process. They have to end education of hatred. They have to end it, and now. [ Cheers and applause ] 18:50:03 There is no moral equivalency. Israel does not name public squares after terrorists. Israel does not pay its children to stab random Palestinians. You see, what president Obama gets wrong about deal making is that he constantly applies pressure to our friends, and rewards our enemies. [ Cheers and applause ] And you see that happening all the time. That pattern practiced by the president and his administration, including former secretary of state Hillary Clinton, who is a total disaster, by the way. [ Laughter ] [ Cheers and applause ] She and president Obama have treated Israel very, very badly. [ Cheers and applause ] 18:51:10 But it's repeated itself over and over again, and has done nothing to embolden those who hate America. We saw that with releasing the $150 billion to Iran, in the hope that they would magically join the world community. It didn't happen. [ Applause ] President Obama thinks that applying pressure to Israel will force the issue, but it's precisely the opposite that happens. Already half of the population of Palestine has been taken over by the Palestinian ISIS and Hamas, and the other half refuses to confront the first half, so it's a very difficult situation that's never going to get solved unless you have great leadership right here in the United States. 18:52:02 We'll get it solved, one way or the other. We will get it solved. [ Cheers and applause ] But when the United States stands with Israel, the chances of peace really rise. And rises exponentially. That's what will happen when Donald Trump is president of the United States. [ Cheers and applause ] We will move the American embassy to the eternal capital of the jewish people, Jerusalem. [ Cheers and applause ] 18:52:56 And we will send a clear signal that there is no daylight between America and our most reliable ally, the state of Israel. [ Cheers and applause ] The Palestinians must come to the table, knowing that the bond between the United States and Israel is absolutely totally unbreakable. [ applause ] They must come to the table willing and able to stop the terror, being committed on a daily basis against Israel. They must do that. [ Applause ] And they must come to the table willing to accept that Israel is a jewish state, and it will forever exist as a jewish state. 18:54:03 I love the people in this room. I love Israel. I love Israel. I've been with Israel so long in terms of -- I've received some of my greatest honors from Israel. My father before me, incredible. My daughter, ivanka, is about to have a beautiful jewish baby. [ Cheers and applause ] In fact, it could be happening right now, which would be very nice as far as I'm concerned. So I want to thank you very much. This has been a truly great honor. Thank you, everybody. Thank you. Thank you very much. JOHN KASICH 17:36:00 >> Thank you very much I am delighted to be back at aipac the organization I have worked with sincerely '80s. Back then your audience was in the hundreds , the testament to AIPAC is that those crowds are now in the thousands as we can see today. You know I first visited Israel in 1983 with my late dear friend Gordon Zacks. As you all know Gordon was a founding member of the aipac and it was on that trip that I actually visited Bethlehem and I called my mother on Christmas night from Jerusalem. As you can imagine it was a very very special moment and Gordon always reminded me of it. Gordon helped me as much as anyone has over the years to know and to appreciate the importance of our relationship with Israel and Israel's unique security challenges. 17:36:55 And I can think of of better guy who could have taken me to Israel. It was on my trip in 1983 that Gordon introduce me to Avital Sharansky when he husband (naton?) was still in soviet prison. She told me her husband's story over lunch at the King David Hotel in Jerusalem and said she was going to Washington to plead for his release. I asked her would you mind if I organized a rally in support of your husband on the steps of the capital. And so we came together in a bipartisan way to call for (Naton?) Shiranksys release. [Cheers and applause] 17:37:39 You know Gordy had taken Sharansky into the oval office to meet with President Reagan and when the meeting ended Mrs. Sharansky was told by the president I will not rest until your husband is free. Sharansky's story has always inspired me from the day that Gordy introduced me to Avital but I don't know how many of you here have read his book fear no evil. Natan wrote in that book as I related to him and he said I'm glad that you (?). But when they went to him in the prison they wanted him to confess something and they said you understand that galileo even confessed. And think about him sitting in that prison in solitary confinement and he thought to himself and told them, you are using galileo against me, no one will ever use me against any other prisoner of conscious. For that he deserves to always be remembered 17:38:52 I had a phone conversation with Natan for years but never had the chains to meet him and ironically I met him at the cemetery when we laid Gordy Zachs to rest where Natan gave the eulogy on behalf of our great friend. I'll want to make it clear to all of you thta I remain unwavering in my support for the jewish state and the unique partnership between the US and Israel. 17:39:42 When I was first introduced to Israel and some of it's leaders of course the core of our partnership with Israel was already well defined and we give thanks to Harry Truman for the courageous steps he took when Israel was first established. And I applaud our continuing legacy of support of the Jewish state and the struggles and inventiveness and vitality of the jewish people. This legacy is one that I will not only honor in the tea partier ship between the United States and Israel. [Cheers and applause] When I was first introduced to Israel the core of the partnership with Israel was already very well defined for those courageous steps he took when Israel was first established. 17:39:57 [Applause] And I applaud our continuing legacy of support for the jewish state and the struggles, inventiveness and vitality of the jewish people. This legacy is one that I will not only honor in my administration but will take active steps to strengthen and expand. I want you all to know something very special to me, because it was at a ceremony recognizing the holocaust that as governor I proposed that we build a permanent memorial so that people and particularly our young people could understand the history and the lesson of man's inhumanity to man and the incredible suffering visited upon the Jews across the globe. I worked with such prominent Ohioans as the ratners, the (sp?) and many other members of the Jewish community over three years to make it happen.They told me it could not be done and I said you watch me, we will build a memorial. The memorial finally was designed by Daniel Libeskind (sp?) and it was the first of its find in the nation. And You all please come to Columbus and look at it, it is just beautiful. But I want to tell you that a very good friend of mine, Victor Goodman, a prominent member of the jewish community in Ohio, asked me to take him over to look at that memorial before it was unveiled. 17:41:26 We walked over behind the tarp. I had my arm around his shoulder and we read the inscription and the memorial together. And I will never forget when he finished reading it, he buried his head in my chest and wept. And we wept together. And he looked at me and he said, John, thank you for what you have done here. This will exist as long as the state of Ohio exists. As you may know, I served on the house armed services committee for 18 years, and I worked to implement Ronald Reagan's strategy to revitalize our military and to defeat the soviet union. Together my colleagues in congress and I gave our alliance with Israel meaning. We assured Israel's continuing qualitative military edge by authoring the initial $10 million for the arrow iron dome anti-missile program that we know is so critical to the security of Israel. 17:42:33 [ Applause ] We supported the Fanton 2000 program guaranteeing Israeli air superiority with the latest fighters and the transfer of reactive armor technology that has made the Israeli tanks so effective. I think it can be fairly said that my support and friendship for our strategic partner, Israel, has been firm and unwavering for more than 35 years of my professional life. [ Applause ] Israel is the only democracy in the Middle East, has turned into faithful and dependable friends. The American friends of Israel are not fair weather friends. They recognize the strategic hinge with Israel and that America's and Israel's interests are tightly intertwined, despite our inevitable disagreements from time to time. 17:43:28 We share a critically important common interest in the middle East, the unrelenting opposition to Iran's attempts to develop nuclear weapons. [ Applause ] In March of 2015, when the prime minister spoke out against the Iran nuclear deal before a joint session of congress, I flew to Washington and stood on the floor of the house of representatives that was in session, the first time I had visited since we had been in session in 15 years, and I did it to show my respect, my personal respect to the people of Israel. [ Applause ] 17:44:13 And I want you all to know that I have called for the suspension of the U.S.' participation in the Iran nuclear deal in reaction to Iran's recent ballistic missile tests. [ Cheers and applause ] These tests were both a violation of the spirit of the nuclear deal and provocations that can no longer be ignored. One of the missiles tested had printed on it in hebrew, can you believe this, Israel must be exterminated. And I will instantly gather the world and lead us to re-apply sanctions if Iran violates one crossed T or one dot of that nuclear deal. We must put the sanctions back on them as the world community, together. [ Applause ] 17:45:35 Let me also tell you no amount of money that's being made by any business will stand in the way of the need to make sure that the security of Israel is secured and that Iran does not have a nuclear weapon. No amount of money can push us in the wrong direction. And I want you to be assured that in a Kasich administration, there will be no more delusional agreements with self-declared enemies. No more. And as the candidate in this race with the deepest and most far-reaching foreign policy and national security experience, ladies and gentlemen, I don't need on-the-job training, I will not have to learn about the dangers facing this country and our allies, I have lived these matters for decades. One day -- and on day one in the oval office I will have in place a solid team of experienced and dedicated people who will implement a long-term strategic program to assure the security and safety of this country and that of its allies, such as Israel. I will lead and make decisions, and my national security appointees will work tirelessly with Israel to counter Iran's regional aggression and sponsorship of terror. 17:46:49 We will help to interdict weapons supplies to Hezbollah, we will defeat ISIS in syria and Iraq and we will assist Israel to interdict Iranian arm supplies and financial flows to hamas. Let me stress, I will also work to build and expand on Israel's newfound regional relations as a result of the flawed Iran nuclear deal, amazing. Israel and the Arab gulf states are now closer than ever. The bad news here is that the U.S. Is not part of this new web of relations. I will work to participate in, expand and strengthen those ties. [ Applause ] 17:47:37 Israelis live in one of the world's roughest neighborhoods and Iran is not the only threat that the U.S. And Israel both face there. ISIS, headquartered in Syria and Iraq, is a mortal peril. Of course, ladies and gentlemen, its spread must be stopped. Since it is dedicated to destruction in Israel, the Middle East, Europe, Africa, Asia and the United States, it is a threat to all civilization unless we recognize and unite around this central truth, we will remain committed to an ineffective and piecemeal approach to dealing with ISIS. Because the world recognizes the existential threat posed by ISIS, I believe I can lead a regional and nato coalition to defeat ISIS both from the air and on the ground in Syria and in Iraq. We're all in this together. I will also provide support and relief to our common ally, Jordan, that has shared the brunt of refugee flows, and I will bring our troops home as soon as we, together with our allies, have created a realistic prospect that regional powers can conclude a settlement guaranteeing long-term security there. 17:48:53 I will then support allied coalitions as they destroy ISIS' various regional affiliates. My administration will cooperate with our allies to deny Libya's oil as a resource, deny Libya as a platform to mount attacks against Europe and disband what has become a hub for acts of terror throughout Africa. I will support our common vital ally, Egypt, in its efforts to destroy the insurgency in sinai and terrorists infiltrating from Libya. And I will provide the Afghan national security forces with the key aircraft and support needed to defeat the Taliban, Al Qaeda and ISIS and then I will bring our troops in Afghanistan back home. [ Applause ] 17:49:40 Insurgent states such as Iran and network transnational actors such as ISIS are not the only threats that Israel, the jewish American community and America together face. Believe me, a Kasich administration will work from the beginning to block and eliminate any form of intolerance, bigotry, racism or anti-semitism whether domestic or international, particularly in international bodies. [ Applause ] I condemn all attempts to isolate pressure and delegitimize the state of Israel, and I will support congress' efforts to allow this activity both here and in the eu. And I am also very concerned about rising attacks on Israel and jewish students on our college campuses. I pledge to use -- [ applause ] 17:50:59 I pledge to use the full force of the white house to fight this scourge and I will make sure we have have the tools needed to protect students from hate speech, harassment and intimidation while supporting free speech on our college campuses. I've been horrified by the recent spate of Palestinian attacks of Israeli citizens. These are not spontaneous actions of lone wolves. They are part of an unprecedented wave of terror that is involved over 200 attacks on Israelis since October 2015. And they are the outcome of a culture of death that the Palestinian authority and its forbearers have promoted for over 50 years. [ Applause ] 17:51:58 Indoctrination of hate has long been part of a planned and well thought out strategy. Palestinian children are raised in a culture that glorifies martyrdom and the willingness to die in the pursuit of killing or maiming Israelis. Children textbooks have been filled with vile anti semitism, Families of suicide killers receive an annuity after they kill and maim, imprisoned terrorists receive stipends and are guaranteed jobs in the Palestinian civil service and a salary determined by the length of their sense. Public squares, and streets and soccer tournaments are named after terrorists. If they truly want peace with israel than Palestinians cannot continue to promote a culture of hatred and death. We must make it clear that we will not tolerate such behavior. [ Applause ] 17:53:00 And I do not believe there is any prospect for a permanent peace until the Palestinian authority and their friends in hamas and Hezbollah are prepared to take real steps to live in peace with Israel and recognize Israel's right to exist as a jewish state. This violence is unacceptable. In the meantime, we can best advance stability in the region by providing Israel our 100% support. We can make sure Israel has what it needs to defend itself with weapons, information technology, political solidarity and working quietly to facilitate Palestinian and Israeli efforts at reconciliation. This is what would be expected of a dependable ally. 17:53:54 Folks, let me conclude by talking about the greatest alliances or those with countries such as Israel where we share a community of values. The post-war international system that we and our allies build upon these common values, of course, is under challenge or attack. And that's why we have to recommit ourselves to those values. We must not shy away from proclaiming and celebrating them and why we must revitalize our alliances to defend and expand the international system, build upon those values. A system that's prevented global conflict and lifted over 2 billion people out of poverty in the last 70 years. In doing this, we cannot go it alone. We must hang together and be realistic about what we can achieve. We cannot be neutral in defending our allies either. We must be counted on to stand by and invest in our friends instead of abusing them and currying favor with our enemies. 17:54:50 For effective governance in our democracy and for the sake of the future, we have to work together at home, as well across party and ideological lines wherever and whenever possible. This is exactly what I've done in the course of my career in public service. I reached out to the other side countless times to see how we can sit together and achieve the progress that America wants and deserves. And we all look back to the time of Ronald Reagan and his meetings with tip o'neil where they came together to put America first, politics and partisanship second and Reagan, as he reached across the aisle to tip o'neill, very partisan, legendary, they managed to hammer out deals that gave Reagan victories in revitalizing our economy and implementing the military build-up that ended the cold war. But It took a conscious effort and an attitude of wanting to cooperate so this is what I want to do, Republicans and Democrats who are here today. We need to work together with congress on an agenda that serves the interest of the nation as a whole. 17:55:57 We are Americans before we are Republicans or Democrats. We are Americans. [ Applause ] And let me tell you in regard to that, I will not take the low road to the highest office in the land. I will not do it. [ Applause ] Yes, we will rededicate ourselves to reaching the bipartisan national security policy that president Reagan and the Democrats achieved. You can be assured that my strategic program will include and incorporate Israel as the bedrock partner for our mutual security in the Middle East. Together we will combat violence incited in Israel itself and of course its eternal capital Jerusalem. [ Applause ] 17:57:23 Thank you. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to be here today in front of so many of you who've contributed so much. I'm humbled by the chance to stand here at this incredible gathering of people who so much love America and so much love our great ally Israel. You see, we're connected together. It's about civilization. It's about peace. It's about love. It's about togetherness. 17:57:59 It's about healing the world. The great jewish tradition is everyone lives a life a little bigger than themselves. And that tradition has worked its way deep into my soul where I tell people all across America, dig down deep. The lord has made you special. Live a life bigger than yourself. Lift others. Heal, provide hope. Provide progress. And with that, the rest of this century and the relationship between the United States and Israel will grow stronger and stronger for the benefit and mutual security of the world. Thank you all very much, and God bless you. Dukakis/Kreutz More to come on HRC's speech at AIPAC from Ali, but she just had a big riff going directly after Trump. Although she didn't mention him by name, her message was clear: "We need steady hands, not a president who says he's neutral on Monday, pro-Israel on Tuesday and who knows what on Wednesday, because everything's negotiable," she said, referring to Trump's recent remark that he's "neutral" on Israel/Palestine. "Some things aren't negotiable," she added later, "And anyone who doesn't understand that has no business being our president." Snap stream log, not 100% accurate, h/t Alana- [10:13:16 AM] For the security of Israel and the world, we need America to remain a respected global leader committed to defending and advancing the international order, an America able to block efforts to isolate or attack Israel. The alternative is unthinkable. [ Applause ] . >> Yes, we need steady hands, not a president who says he's neutral on Monday, pro Israel on Tuesday, and who knows what on Wednesday because everything'snegotiable. [ Applause ] >> Well, my friends, Israel's security is nonnegotiable. [ Applause ] I have sat in Israeli hospital rooms holding the hands of men and women whose bodies and lives were torn apart by terrorist bombs. I've listened to doctors describe the shrapnel left in a leg, an arm, or even a head. That's why I feel to strongly that America can't ever be neutral when it comes to Israel's security or survival. We can't be neutral when rockets rain down on residential neighborhoods. [10:15:17 AM] When civilians are stabbed in the street, when decide bombers are target the innocent. Some things aren't negotiable, and anyone who doesn't understand that has no business being our president. -- Liz Kreutz | Digital Journalist | ABC News | 646-584-9604 | T: @ABCLiz **ABC UNI CUTS SHOT - TAPE C/B - inquire if you want slug!** Clinton's presumable swings at Trump began right off the bat of her speech to AIPAC Monday morning in Washington - but later in her remarks, she made hard, direct hits. "Americans and Israelis face currents of intolerance and extremism that threaten the moral foundations of our societies," Clinton explained towards the end of her speech. "Now, in a democracy we're going to have differences. But what Americans are hearing on the campaign trail this year is something else entirely, encouraging violence, playing coy with white supremacists, calling for 12 million immigrants to be rounded up and deported. Demanding we turn away refugees because of their religion and proposing a ban on all muslims entering the United States, " Clinton said, clearly referencing Trump policies and remarks. [10:28:53] She added, "Now, we've had dark chapters in our history before. We remember the nearly 1,000 Jews aboard the St. Louis who were refused entry in 1939 and sent back to Europe. "But America should be better than this, and I believe it's our responsibility as citizens to say so," Clinton explained. "If you see bigotry, oppose it. If you see violence, condemn it. If you see a bully, stand up to him," Clinton said to applause. [10:30] Other good lines: "As APEC members you understand that while the turmoil to the Middle East presents challenge and complexity, walking away is not an option. Candidates for president who think the United States can outsource Middle East security to dictators [10:02:04 AM] or that America no longer has vital national interests at stake in this region are dangerously wrong. " "It would be a serious mistake for the United States to abandon our responsibilities or seed the mantle of leadership for global peace and security to anyone else," she added to applause. Later discussing the Iran nuclear deal, Clinton said: "tonight you'll here other candidates about Iran, but there's a big difference about talking about holding Tehran accountable and actually doing it. Our next president has to be able to hold together our global coalition and impose real consequences for even the smallest violations of this agreement. [ Applause ] We must maintain the legal and diplomatic architecture to turn all the sanctions back on if needed." [10:18:47 AM] On Israel: "We marvel that such liberty exists in a region so plagued by intolerance..."We see the vigorous debate in Israeli politics and feel right at home. And, of course, some of us remember a woman leading Israel's government decades ago and wonder what's taking us so long here in America? [ Applause ] [10:29:00 AM] Ali Dukakis Digital Journalist ABC News | Washington, D.C. w: 202 222 6093 <tel:202%20222%206093> c: 202 489 9458 <tel:202%20489%209458> @ajdukakis Just circling back to report that Kasich just delivered his remarks at AIPAC, hitting on all the points below almost word-for-word as they were drafted earlier with no substantive deviations from the script. Strangely, though, he rushed through his line jabbing at Trump - "we cannot be neutral in defending our allies" - garnering little applause. According to Jess Hopper at the venue, Kasich received several standing ovations, including when he spoke about the Iran nuclear deal, how people should be Americans before they are Republicans or Democrats (which he says all the time) and how Palestinians must recognize Israel's right to exist. Also of note, he repeatedly mispronounced Soviet dissident-turned-Jewish Agency head Natan Sharansky's first name as "NAY-tahn" instead of "Na-TAHN," despite Kasich explaining that Sharansky was a significant part of his early connection to Israel. And for this speech, Kasich wore glasses and read from prepared remarks, two things he almost never does on the campaign trail. Ben Gittleson | ABC News c: +1 646-740-9341 o: +1 212-456-1616 Twitter: @bgittleson GOP front runner Donald Trump did something he's never done before in his race for the White House - he read a speech, and basically stuck to it. Trump promised the crowd "when I become President, the days of treating Israel like a second-class citizen will end on Day One. When I say something I mean it." He constantly in the speech told the crowd to "believe me" - a line he invokes often on the trail, but something he repeatedly often tonight. Trump hit President Obama several times, than finally hit Hillary Clinton. "You see, what President Obama gets wrong about deal making is that he constantly applies pressure to our friends and rewards our enemies. That pattern, practiced by the President and his administration, including former Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton, has repeated itself over and over and has done nothing but embolden those who hate America." He also said the UN "is not a friend of democracy. It's not a friend to freedom. It's not a friend even to the United States of America, where as all know, it has its home. And it surely isn't a friend to Israel." He received a large applause when he talked about moving the US Embassy to Jerusalem: 17:52 - We will move the American embassy to the eternal capital of the Jewish people, Jerusalem - and we will send a clear signal that there is no daylight between America and our most reliable ally, the state of Israel. 17-53-05 As he closed out his speech, he broke into his usual rhythm and from his prepared text "I love Israel.I've been with Israel so long.my daughter Ivanka is about to have a beautiful Jewish baby!" Classic Donald. -- John T. Santucci ABC News - Campaign 2016 C: 516-376-0312 T: @JTSantucci E: John.T.Santucci@abc.com <mailto:John.T.Santucci@abc.com> Of all the GOP candidates to address AIPAC today, Sen. Ted Cruz was the most direct in attacking his fiercest rival, Donald Trump. Cruz began throwing the jabs at the beginning of his speech. "Let me say at the outset, perhaps to the surprise of a previous speaker, Palestine has not existed since 1948," said Cruz to laughs and cheers. 19:02:59 Cruz also made the arena laugh when he joked about the fundraiser his former foe and now friend Sen. Lindsey Graham hosted today on behalf of Cruz. "Indeed, just today, my colleague Lindsay Graham very kindly hosted an event for me here, which should allay any doubts anyone might have that the god of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob can still do miracles," said Cruz. 19:05:50 Cruz previously said he planned to use his AIPAC speech to draw contrasts with Trump since Trump refused to debate him tonight in Salt Lake City. He did draw contrasts, but none of them were new. All except his initial jab about Palestine were lines Cruz uses routinely in his stump speech. Cruz hit Trump for saying he'd be neutral when it came to Israel and the Palestinians. "In a similar vein, my leading Republican opponent has promised that he as president would be neutral between Israel and the Palestinians. Let me be very, very clear, as president, I will not be neutral. [ Cheers and applause ] America will stand unapologetically with the nation of Israel," Cruz said. 19:13:30 He also criticized Trump for saying he'd renegotiate the Iran Nuclear Deal. "Both Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump have said they would maintain this Iranian deal, although Donald has promised, he's going to negotiate and get a better deal. Well, my view is very different. On the first day in office, I will rip this catastrophic Iranian nuclear deal to shreds," Cruz said. 19:14:30 Cruz appeared to be looking towards the general election at times by criticizing Hillary Clinton and imagining himself as the leader of a newly unified Republican party. "In the next few months, we will bring this country together, first by unifying the Republican party, and then by reaching out and building a coalition of young people and hispanics and African-Americans and women and blue collar workers and jewish voters and Reagan Democrats which will lead to a commanding victory in November that unifies this country and brings us together," Cruz said. 19:03:48 Cruz criticized Hillary Clinton for her 2014 remarks about Gaza. "Well, Madam Secretary, with all respect, the reason the missiles are in schools is not because Gaza is small. The reason the missiles are in schools is because Hamas are terrorist monsters using children as human shields," Cruz said. 19:10:08 Cruz also called on federal funds for anyone who provides financial support to the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement. I have not heard him say this before. "I will do everything in my power to ensure that anyone who provides financial support to the BDS movement, including schools and universities, will lose any access to federal funding," Cruz said. -- Jessica Hopper Digital Journalist ABC News Cell: 202-617-9230 Email: Jessica.M.Hopper@abc.com <mailto:Jessica.M.Hopper@abc.com> Highlighs of Paul Ryan's remarks to AIPAC tonight ALL QUOTES ROUGH//CHECK AGAINST LOG TAPE - SNAPSTREAM below - You've heard a lot...from speakers - you know, what it's not enough though , the speeches, the statements all in the world mean nothing if you do not back them up with actions. 18:03 House renewed support for iron dome when rockets shot at it two years ago When return first trip of speakership will be to Israel As long as I am speaker we will not allow any leg that divides two countries - 18:04 "American is safer when we stand with Israel. So if there's one thing I would ask you to take away from this night it's this: my colleauges and I will do everything we can to concrete our friendship.." "that's what I think most time.some people say "Middle East a mess// a liability // hamstrings America 6:05 "friendships between two countries is in not just our countries interest but both countries interest - interest of the world" 6:06 6:10 "so why is our relationship with Israel so important? Because our fight in Israel against terrorism is one and the same: Israel is first target and America is ultimate target. Because they have same vaules 6:11 "but it does help police protect here in our country fails to realize what allies need 617 you're going to make a huge decision in 2016, and in the house we're hoping to crystallize that.take words of Gen. Patteson (?) 'we need to take our own side in this fight' SNAPSTREAM LOG H/T MALKA - MUST BE CHECKED applause] All I have to say is wow. It is nice to see you here today. [Applause] I want to say that thank you so much for invitee me today end of to Washington D.C. I heard from a lot of folks today you have heard from a lot of folks today. [Laughter] It is always a good thing when America's leaders declare support for Israel. But that is not enough. The speeches, statements speeches, statements, allthe burden of world me nothing if you did not back them up with action. [6:03:23 PM] [Cheers and applause] That is why two years ago when the rockets -- rockets were falling on tel aviv the house approved emergency support for the iron dome. [Applause] And that is why we did just two months of me taking the speakership we voted to fund every penny of our assistance commitment. [Applause] And that is why in my trip overseas as speaker of the house my first trip will be to return to Israel. [Cheers and applause] And that is why I can pledge to you tonight as long as I am speaker of the house house, mobile will not allow any legislation that divides our countries to come to the house floor for any consideration. [Applause] It is action and deeds that build trust. And our friendship is too important to. The dangers we face are two real to let there be any misgivings between us.Like my house colleagues I and a stand that America is not safer when we back away from Israel. It is safer when we stand with Israel. [Applause] So if there is one thing I would ask you to take away from tonight to is this common my colleagues and I will do everything we can and to strengthen ourfriendship. [6:05:26 PM] Digest with words but concrete achievements. Note taking funds for granted her leaving the middle lurch it is a priority in American leaders should act like is. [Applause] That is my take most Americans believe fumble sides of the aisle. But I do hear people raising doubts every now and then to say things like the middleEast is a mess it is none of our business. Why are we taking sides? The say however appliance is some liability. They say that I hamstrings America and cuts against our interests and in my experience it does us no good to wave off our opponents to dismiss them as narrow minded or be high-minded about it. That is a bridge to divide that deepens the divide. Instead we need to confront our critics' arguments head on and have a real conversation and I would say that I firmly believe thatthe friendship between our two countries is not just in Israel's interest in America's interest. [Applause] It is good for Israel and good for America and good for the world. It is really just a lesson in history. For many years we avoided but Thomas Jefferson called the entangling alliances. The great powers that they wanted to use for their own purposes so we stayed out. [6:07:39 PM] That all changes with world War II. We learn the hard way even if you don't go looking for trouble and has a way of finding you. The date that Japan bombed pearl harbor we realize to oceans could no longer protect us anymore. Our interest reached across the world and so did the threat. We could not be in north America north Africa the to deliberate the islands of the south pacific. We had to work with other countries who share our objective is. And we had to lead a global alliance.And a new threat to either merged setting up public regimes all across evening missiles that the friends in western Europe soviets faced the choice either withdrawfrom a the world and ourselves to make ourselves into a garrison state or pursue a four word meaning defense with icky video free nations to keep open commerce these are the years that we create the imf in did 1948 we're the first country to recognize minutes after she declared Independence. [Cheers and applause] >> The first country. [6:09:47 PM] Both the cold war A&M of World War we are safer when we work with each other and stem by a each other and trust each other because then with the threat ariseswe are confronted together. Those threats are very different now. North Korea displays the nuclear weapons Iran backs terrorist groups says it will jockey for dominance in the Middle East. It even with the rise of ISIS it has taken hold. To face the aggressive ideology. New York is that relationship so important? Because of the fight against terrorism the interest is one in the same. In we are the ultimate target. [Applause] Is a liberal democracy with those countries become stronger. And just remember and to fight terrorism in our country. [Cheers and applause] >> Pretty profound. This is the crux of the matter. The current administration understand that we need our allies but it fails to understand what our allies need. [6:11:58 PM] [Applause] They need more than assurances that we have their back but they need to see with their own eyes the commitments I do say this to castigate or police blamed the to bring clarity to the situation we're facing. This is the most fundamental misunderstanding that has undermined our security. Exhibit a is the everyonedeal. [Applause] I think that was a terrible deal. [Cheers and applause] Not since then have we seen like this deal. End because of this deal our friends in the bellies are losing faith in us or at least in our judgment.I really got billions of dollars of sanctions and relief in exchange for what? Or just taking up some of the nuclear program? Indebted 10 or 15 years they all expire? In other words, , they get something for E essentially nothing. If it was a steel. [Applause] And headed is if they don't cheat. [Laughter] [6:14:00 PM] We all want the negotiations to a succeed but we were supposed to get something out of its. It is fine to negotiate with their enemies. It really is but not at all your friends expense that doesn't make any of the safer. [Applause] I don't think it is an accident that every few months we hear of Iran launching another ballistic missile is said and dismantling the program. We legitimize it. This is a huge threat to Israel into our country is. I am going to make something clear with the publisher support it optimistic or skeptical and I sense a fewskeptics in this room today but it is your right to question your government on any issue at any time. [Cheers and applause] That is applied to aipac does and why you were here. If anybody questions that right, of beastie and with few. [Applause] So we have to do everything we can to shore up our alliance. We have to hold their Rand accountable for its violations and push back against Iranian aggression. A and extend our bilateral security agreement and also include missile defense. [6:16:02 PM] And one more thing to the ways avd means we have to push back with clarity. With any attempts by any other country to boycott to ever sanctioned Israel. This is where your voice is and must be heard. This is what they're going to do to us. We can and must me clear on this. And did you know, what this does? It sends a signal is the will stand by through a thick and thin. We have a choice coming. You have people running for president. But here is what we see. You have a choice coming.We will make a big choice in 2016 and along those lines in the house we will try to help crystallize that choice. In to design a strategy and to strengthen allegiances inthe with the words of general James Madison and that we need to take our own side in this fight. [Applause] There is a cited to be taking. Then we will need the help of aipac and everyone here today. A and we need especially the help of the young people better here in this room. [6:18:12 PM] [Applause] Why? Because of the decisions that we make today to determine what type of world you can hear it just knowing you want to take part gives me hope for the future because of your help we can do this. I want to leave you with this. We need to build a confident America. That it does not shrink from commitments or allies. Into a cozy up to Iran a confidence America keeps its word. We stand by our allies and Israel that is of those countries need. I do I just threw a lot that you into thinking what does he care about is real? -- Israel but there is a vibrant jewish comedian Wisconsin. [Applause] Id everyone are die-hard Green Bay packer fans. [Laughter] This is something we're very proud of. Also give a tour of the Israel committee and all walks of life. When we visited different houses of worship one of the most questions is what the short position on Israel? [6:20:20 PM] It is it just some constituency but my friends and family and neighbors. The committee has done so much for Wisconsin you will always have my deepest gratitude. [Applause] So I just want to thank you for having me tonight and in advance for the work between Israel and America to make sure we get it right make sure you keep doing it. God bless. Ali Dukakis Digital Journalist ABC News | Washington, D.C. c: 202 489 9458 @ajdukakis

WASH 7 AIPAC AFTERNOON SESSION HEAD ON POOL C16 032116 WASH 8 AIPAC AFTERNOON SESSION SWITCH POOL C16 032116 TED CRUZ 19:02:59 >> God bless aipac. [ Cheers and applause ] I'm thrilled to be here with you today. And let me say at the outset, perhaps to the surprise of a previous speaker, palestine has not existed since 1948. [ Cheers and applause ] On Wednesday night of this week, in synagogues across the world, jewish people will read the magila, which tells the story of purim, the miraculous rescue. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:03:48 The miraculous rescue of the jewish people from the hands of a wicked persian king. When the evil doer Haman plots to kill the Jews, he describes them as a nation that is scattered and spread out. The town that (?) teaches that the jewish people at the time were divided amongst themselves, and that the lesson is that when the forces of good are divided, evil can prevail. But when we come together in unity together, we can defeat tyrants. Today we are reliving history. Facing a similar time of challenge for America, and for Israel. But today I give you a word of hope. In the next few months, we will bring this country together, first by unifying the Republican party, and then by reaching out and building a coalition of young people and hispanics and African-Americans and women and blue collar workers and jewish voters and Reagan Democrats. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:05:07 Which will lead to a commanding victory in November that unifies this country and brings us together. [ Applause ] And standing together, America will stand with Israel and defeat radical islamic terrorism. [ Cheers and applause ] I want to thank the delegates, the over 18,000 people here, the 4,000 young people, the leaders of the pro-Israel movement who are gathered here today. [ Applause ] You will play a critical leadership role in making this happen, and bringing us together. 19:05:50 Indeed, just today, my colleague Lindsay Graham very kindly hosted an event for me here, which should allay any doubts anyone might have that the god of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob can still do miracles. [ Laughter ] I want to begin by asking all of us to remember Taylor Force, a texan who hailed from Lubbock, an eagle scout, a west point graduate, an army veteran.On March 8th he was stabbed to death by a Palestinian terrorist in Israel. The terrorist didn't ask for his passport. Influenced by the relentless campaign of incitement that has fostered genocidal hatred toward Jews, all he cared about was injuring or killing as many civilians as possible. At least ten people were wounded by the time the terrorist was neutralized. The brutal murder of Taylor Force is yet another reminder that America and Israel are in the fight together against radical islamic terrorism. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:07:07 We need a president who will be a champion for America. And we need a president who will be a champion for Israel. [ Cheers and applause ] In my time in the senate, I have endeavored to do both. In the four years I've been serving in the senate, I've been privileged to travel three times to the state of Israel. I had the great privilege of seeing the (?) hospital in northern Israel where they have treated over 1,000 refugees from Syria, wounded in that horrible Syrian civil war, have done so free of charge, showing the heart and character of the people of Israel. 19:08:01 [ Cheers and applause ] When the nation of Iran named as their ambassador to the united nations, Hamid Abuddalabi (sp?), a known terrorist who participated in holding Americans hostage in the late 1970s, people in Washington said there was nothing we could do. Well, I was proud to introduce legislation barring Abuddalabi (sp?) from coming to America.That legislation passed the senate 100 to nothing. It passed the house 435 to nothing. And it was signed into law by president Obama. [ Cheers and applause ] [ Cheers and applause ] When Israel was facing relentless rocket attacks from hamas, and the prayers of all of us, and people across the world were with Israel, prime minister Netanyahu powerfully observed, we are using missile defense to protect our civilians. And they are using their civilians to protect their missiles. I entirely agree with prime minister Netanyahu, as hamas would place rockets in elementary schools. They placed their headquarters in the basement of a hospital. And I would note, that Hillary Clinton, in 2014, explained this as follows. Quote, "hamas puts its missiles, its rockets in civilian areas. Part of it is because gaza's pretty small. And it's densely populated." Well, madam secretary, with all respect, the reason the missiles are in schools is not because gaza is small. The reason the missiles are in schools is because hamas are terrorist monsters using children as human shields. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:10:08 And in response to this atrocity, I was proud to join with New York Democrat kirsten Gillibrand in authoring a resolution condemning hamas' use as human shields as a war crime, and that resolution passed both houses of congress unanimously. [ Cheers and applause ] In the midst of these rocket attacks, we saw the Obama administration cancel civilian airline flights into the nation of Israel. When that happened, I publicly asked the question, did this administration just launch an economic boycott on the nation of Israel. [ Cheers and applause ] The administration does not ban flights into Pakistan, does not ban flights into Yemen, does not ban flights into Afghanistan. Indeed, did not ban flights into much of Ukraine. And Ukraine had just seen a passenger airliner shot down by a Russian buk missile. So why exactly was a disproportionate sanction put on Israel, because one rocket fell harmlessly a mile away from magaria (sp?) airport, one of the safest airports in the world. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:11:25 And why was that time to coincide with John Kerry arriving in the Middle East with $47 million for gaza that would inevitably end up with hamas terrorists. [ Applause ] When I asked that question, within hours the state department was being asked, is this an economic boycott of Israel? The state department said, that question is ridiculous. We refuse to answer. So I responded, fine, I will place a hold on every nominee to the state department. [ Cheers and applause ] Shortly thereafter, former new York mayor Michael Bloomberg rode a civilian airliner from London to tel aviv demonstrating that it was safe to fly to Israel. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:12:18 And as a result of mayor Bloomberg's efforts and my efforts and that of millions of others, the heat and light and attention became too much on this administration, and within 36 hours, the administration lifted its ban on civilian air flights to Israel. [ Cheers and applause ] Looking forward, as president, I will lead very, very differently from the current administration. [ Cheers and applause ] Imagine just a few years ago, if I had come to an aipac conference and suggested that the prime minister of Israel was going to come to America, address a joint session of congress, and he would be boycotted by the president of the United States, the vice president of the United States, and every member of the cabinet. That would have been dismissed as crazy, fanciful. That could never happen. And sadly, that is exactly what did happen when prime minister Netanyahu came to address congress. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:13:30 In a similar vein, my leading Republican opponent has promised that he as president would be neutral between Israel and the Palestinians. Let me be very, very clear, as president, I will not be neutral. [ Cheers and applause ] America will stand unapologetically with the nation of Israel. [ Cheers and applause ] So what does that mean specifically? Let's start with today's persian king, the nation of Iran. Both Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump have said they would maintain this Iranian deal, although Donald has promised, he's going to negotiate and get a better deal. Well, my view is very different. On the first day in office, I will rip this catastrophic Iranian nuclear deal to shreds. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:14:48 This agreement gives over $100 billion to the ayatollah khomeini, the world's state sponsor of terrorism. That dwarfs the $3 billion in military aid that we give each year to the nation of Israel. That difference is not just unconscionable, it is fundamentally immoral. And if I am president, on the first day, we will reimpose sanctions on Iran. [ Cheers and applause ] In a mockery of this Iranian nuclear deal, Iran has continued with missile tests, including launching a missile with the words printed on it in both hebrew and farsi, Israel should be wiped from the Earth. Hear my words, ayatollah khomeini, if I am president, and Iran launches a missile test, we will shoot that missile down. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:15:55 And in January 2017, we will have a commander in chief who says, under no circumstances will Iran be allowed to acquire nuclear weapons, either you will shut down your nuclear program or we'll shut it down for you. [ Cheers and applause ] A year ago, when prime minister Netanyahu addressed congress, I was honored to join the great Ali wizel on a panel discussion in the senate about this disastrous Iranian deal. Not a single Democrat was willing to join Ali wezel. To sit alongside someone who witnessed firsthand the horrors of the holocaust. Who brings a moral weight and gravity second to none. It was both powerful and humbling. And I am convinced after this election, the American people will stand and say together, never again means never again. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:17:13 On my very first day in office, I will begin the process of moving the American embassy in Israel to Jerusalem, the once and eternal capital of Israel. [ Cheers and applause ] Now, I recognize for years a whole lot of presidential candidates, both Republicans and Democrats, have said that indeed I recognize some candidates have said that standing here today. Here's the difference. I will do it. [ Cheers and applause ] And as president, I will do everything in my power to ensure that anyone who provides financial support to the bds movement, including schools and universities, will lose any access to federal funding. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:18:22 And to the extent that they have engaged in illegal behavior, they will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. [ Cheers and applause ] All of us here understand that Israel is not the barrier to peace. It is the Palestinian authority, and a so-called unity government with hamas that celebrates the murder of women and children, and incites and even compensates the terrorist attacks. If the Palestinians try to push through a united nations resolution to unilaterally declare Palestinian statehood, America will veto that resolution. [ Cheers and applause ] Indeed, I tell you today, I will fly to New York to personally veto it myself. [ Cheers and applause ] Now, some have asked, why on Earth did a cuban-american texan become one of the leading defenders of Israel in the United States congress? Well, I would say there are several reasons. First of all, I understand that standing with Israel benefits America. [ Applause ] Israel is a liberal democracy that shares our values. Israel is a steadfast and loyal ally. 19:20:08 And our military aid to Israel is not charity. It is rather furthering the vital national security interests of the United States of America, whether it is missile defense, from iron dome to David sling, or whether it is intelligence and military cooperation, Israel provides an enormous benefit to keeping America safe and protecting us from radical islamic terrorists. [ Cheers and applause ] But on a very personal level, for me, much of my view of Israel is framed in my family story. 19:20:51 My father was born and raised in Cuba. As a kid, he fought in the Cuban revolution. He was imprisoned, he was tortured.My father fled Cuba in 1957. When he came to America, he had nothing. He had $100 sewn into his underwear. And he washed dishes, making 50 cents an hour. He paid his way through school, he went on to start a small business. When I was a kid, my dad used to say to me over and over again, when I faced oppression in Cuba,I had a place to flee to. 19:21:26 If we lose our freedom here, where do we go. And I will tell you, it is an incredible blessing to be the child of an immigrant who fled oppression and came to America seeking freedom. And there is one other nation on Earth like the United States of America that was created as an oasis, as a beacon of hope to people who had faced oppression, had faced horrible murder and persecution, the nation of Israel, like America, is a beacon of light unto the world. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:22:13 And all of us here understand, as Ronald Reagan did, that peace is achievable only through strength. This is what Israel understands, when you surrounded by neighbors who would drive you into the sea, somehow you don't have time for political correctness. [ Applause ] Weakness is provocative. Appeasement increases the chance of military conflict. Indeed, I believe this Iranian nuclear deal is Munich in 1938, and we risk once again catastrophic consequences to allowing a homicidal maniac to acquire tools to murder millions. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:23:06 The way to avoid conflict is to stand up to bullies. And it is worth remembering that this same nation, Iran, in 1981, released our hostages the day Ronald Reagan was sworn into office. [ Cheers and applause ] That is the difference a strong commander in chief can make, and together standing as one, we can and will. Do it again. Thank you. DONALD TRUMP 18:30:37 >> Good evening. Thank you very much. I speak to you today as a lifelong supporter and true friend of Israel. [ Cheers and applause ] I'm a newcomer to politics. But not to backing the jewish state. [ Applause ] In 2001, weeks after the attacks on New York City, and on Washington, and, frankly, the attacks on all of us, attacks that perpetrated, and they were perpetrated by the islamic fundamentalists, mayor Rudy Giuliani visited Israel to show solidarity with terror victims. 18:31:24 I sent my plane, because I backed the mission for Israel 100%. [ Cheers and applause ] In spring of 2004, at the height of the violence in the gaza strip, I was the grand marshal of the 40th salute to Israel parade, the largest single gathering in support of the jewish state. [ Applause ] It was a very dangerous time for Israel, and frankly, for anyone supporting Israel. Many people turned down this honor. I did not. I took the risk, and I'm glad I did. [ Cheers and applause ] But I didn't come here tonight to pander to you about Israel. That's what politicians do. All talk, no action, believe me. 18:32:30 [ Applause ] I came here to speak to you about where I stand on the future of American relations with our strategic ally, our unbreakable friendship, and our cultural brother. The only democracy in the middle East, the state of Israel. 18:32:57 [ Cheers and applause ] Thank you. My number one priority is to dismantle the disastrous deal with Iran. [ Cheers and applause ] Thank you. Thank you. I have been in business a long time. I know deal making. And let me tell you, this deal is catastrophic.For America, for Israel, and for the whole of the Middle East. [ Applause ] The problem here is fundamental. We've rewarded the world's leading state sponsor of terror with $150 billion, and we received absolutely nothing in return. [ Cheers and applause ] I've studied this issue in great detail. I would say actually greater by far than anybody else. Believe me. Oh, believe me. And it's a bad deal.The biggest concern with the deal is not necessarily that Iran is going to violate it, because already, you know, as you know, it has. The bigger problem is that they can keep the terms and still get the bomb by simply running out the clock. 18:34:34 And of course, they'll keep the billions and billions of dollars that we so stupidly and foolishly gave them. [ Applause ] The deal doesn't even require Iran to dismantle its military nuclear capability. Yes, it places limits on its military nuclear program, for only a certain number of years, but when those restrictions expire, Iran will have an industrial size military nuclear capability ready to go, and with zero provision for delay, no matter how bad Iran's behavior is. Terrible, terrible situation that we are all placed in, and especially Israel. [6:35:41 PM] 18:35:28 When I'm president, I will adopt a strategy that focuses on three things when it comes to Iran. First, we will stand up to Iran's aggressive push to destabilize and dominate the region. [ Applause ] Iran is a very big problem, and will continue to be. But if I'm not elected president, I know how to deal with trouble. And believe me, that's why I'm going to be elected president, folks. 18:36l07 And we are leading in every poll, remember that, please. Iran is a problem in Iraq, a problem in Syria, a problem in Lebanon, a problem in Yemen, and will be a very, very major problem for Saudi Arabia. Literally, every day Iran provides more and better weapons to support their puppet states. Hezbollah, Lebanon received, and I'll tell you what, it has received sophisticated anti-ship weapons, anti-aircraft weapons, and gps systems and rockets like very few people anywhere in the world, and certainly very few countries have. Now they're in Syria trying to establish another front against Israel from the Syrian side of the Golan heights. 18:37:00 In gaza, Iran is supporting hamas, and islamic jihad. And in the west bank, they're openly offering Palestinians $7,000 per terror attack, and $30,000 for every Palestinian terrorist home that's been destroyed. A deplorable, deplorable situation Iran is financing military forces throughout the middle East, and it's absolutely incredible that we handed them over $150 billion to do even more toward the many horrible acts of terror. 18:37:50 [ Applause ] Secondly, we will totally dismantle Iran's global terror network, which is big and powerful, but not powerful like us. [ Cheers and applause ] Iran has seeded terror groups all over the world. During the last five years, Iran has perpetuated terror attacks in 25 different countries on five continents. They've got terror cells everywhere, including in the western hemisphere very close to home. Iran is the biggest sponsor of terrorism around the world, and we will work to dismantle that reach, believe me. Believe me. 18:38:42 Third, at the very least, we must enforce the terms of the previous deal to hold Iran totally accountable, and we will enforce it like you've never seen a contracted enforced before, folks. Believe me. 18:39:02 Iran has already, since the deal is in place, test-fired ballistic missiles three times. Those ballistic missiles with a range of 1,250 miles were designed to intimidate, not only Israel, which is only 600 miles away, but also intended to frighten Europe and some day maybe hit even the united States. And we're not going to let that happen. We're not letting it happen. And we're not letting it happen to Israel, believe me. [ Cheers and applause ] Thank you. Thank you. 18:39:49 Do you want to hear something really shocking? As many of the great people in this room know, painted on those missiles in both hebrew and farsi Were the words Israel must be wiped off the face of the Earth. You can forget that. [ Cheers and applause ] 18:40:10 What kind of demented minds write that in hebrew. And here's another, you talk about twisted? Here's another twisted part. Testing these missiles does not even violate the horrible deal that we've made. The deal is silent on test missiles. But those tests do violate the United Nations security council resolutions. The problem is, no one has done anything about it. We will. We will, I promise, we will. [ Cheers and applause ] 18:40:51 Thank you. Which brings me to my next point. The utter weakness and incompetence of the United Nations -- [ cheers and applause ] The United Nations is not a friend of democracy. It's not a friend to freedom. It's not a friend even to the United States of America, where as you know, it has its home. And it surely is not a friend to Israel. [ Cheers and applause ] With president Obama and his final year -- yea! [ Cheers and applause ] 18:42:11 He may be the worst thing to ever happen to Israel, believe me. Believe me. And you know it. And you know it better than anybody. So with the president in his final year, discussions have been swirling about an attempt to bring a security council resolution on terms of an eventual agreement between Israel and Palestine. Let me be clear. An agreement imposed by the United Nations would be a total and complete disaster. [ Cheers and applause ] The United States must oppose this resolution, and use the power of our veto which I will use as president 100%. [ Cheers and applause ] When people ask why, it's because that's not how you make a deal. Deals are made when parties come together. They come to a table and they negotiate. Each side must give up something. It's values -- I mean, we have to do something where there's value in exchange for something that it requires. That's what a deal is. 18:43:34 A deal is really something that when we impose it on Israel and Palestine, we bring together a group of people that come up with something that's not going to happen with the United nations. It will only further, very importantly, it will only further delegitimize Israel. It will be a catastrophe and a disaster for Israel. It's not going to happen, folks. [ Cheers and applause ] And further, it would reward Palestinian terrorism, because every day they're stabbing Israelis, and even Americans. Just last week, American tailor Allen Force, a west point grad, phenomenal young person who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, was murdered in the street by a knife-wielding Palestinian. You don't reward behavior like that. You cannot do it. [ Cheers and applause ] 18:44:42 There's only one way you treat that kind of behavior. You have to confront it. [ Applause ] So it's not up to the united nations to really go with a solution, it's really the parties that must negotiate a resolution themselves. They have no choice.They have to do it themselves, or it will never hold up anyway. The United States can be useful as a facilitator of negotiations, but no one should be telling Israel that it must be -- and really, that it must abide by some agreement made by others thousands of miles away, that don't even really know what's happening to Israel, to anything in the area. It's so preposterous. We're not going to let that happen. [ Cheers and applause ] 18:45:45 When I'm president, believe me, I will veto any attempt by the U.N. To impose its will on the jewish state. It will be vetoed 100%. [ Cheers and applause ] You see, I know about deal making. That's what I do. I wrote the art of the deal. One of the best-selling all-time, and I mean seriously, I'm saying one of, because I'll be criticized when I say "The" so I'll be very diplomatic. I'll be criticized. I think it is number one, but why take a chance. [ Laughter ] One of the all-time best-selling books about deals and deal-making, to make a great deal, you need two willing participants. We know Israel is willing to deal. Israel has been trying -- 18:46:47 >> That's right. Israel has been trying to sit down at the negotiating table without preconditions for years. You had camp David in 2000, where prime minister Barak made an incredible offer, maybe even too generous. Arafat rejected it. In 2008, prime minister Omer made an equally generous offer. The Palestinian authority rejected it also. Then John Kerry tried to come up with a framework, and Abbas didn't even respond. Not even to the secretary of state of the United States of America. They didn't even respond. When I become president, the days of treating Israel like a second-class citizen will end, on day one. [ Cheers and applause ] 18:47:6 And when I say something, I mean it. I mean it. I will meet with prime minister Netanyahu immediately. I have known him for many years. And we'll be able to work closely together to help bring stability and peace to Israel, and to the entire region. Meanwhile, every single day you have rampant incitement and children being taught to hate Israel, and to hate the Jews, it has to stop. [ Applause ] When you live in a society where the firefighters are the heroes, little kids want to be firefighters. When you live in a society where athletes and movie stars are heroes, little kids want to be athletes and movie stars. In Palestinian society, the heroes are those who murder Jews. We can't let this continue. We can't let this happen any longer. [ Applause ] [ Cheers and applause ] 18:49:08 You cannot achieve peace if terrorists are treated as martyrs. Glorifying terrorists is a tremendous barrier to peace. It is a horrible, horrible way to think. It's a barrier that can't be broken. That will end, and it will end soon, believe me. [ Cheers and applause ] In Palestinian textbooks and mosques, you've got a culture of hatred that has been fermenting there for years. And if we want to achieve peace, they've got to go out, and they've got to start this educational process. They have to end education of hatred. They have to end it, and now. [ Cheers and applause ] 18:50:03 There is no moral equivalency. Israel does not name public squares after terrorists. Israel does not pay its children to stab random Palestinians. You see, what president Obama gets wrong about deal making is that he constantly applies pressure to our friends, and rewards our enemies. [ Cheers and applause ] And you see that happening all the time. That pattern practiced by the president and his administration, including former secretary of state Hillary Clinton, who is a total disaster, by the way. [ Laughter ] [ Cheers and applause ] She and president Obama have treated Israel very, very badly. [ Cheers and applause ] 18:51:10 But it's repeated itself over and over again, and has done nothing to embolden those who hate America. We saw that with releasing the $150 billion to Iran, in the hope that they would magically join the world community. It didn't happen. [ Applause ] President Obama thinks that applying pressure to Israel will force the issue, but it's precisely the opposite that happens. Already half of the population of Palestine has been taken over by the Palestinian ISIS and Hamas, and the other half refuses to confront the first half, so it's a very difficult situation that's never going to get solved unless you have great leadership right here in the United States. 18:52:02 We'll get it solved, one way or the other. We will get it solved. [ Cheers and applause ] But when the United States stands with Israel, the chances of peace really rise. And rises exponentially. That's what will happen when Donald Trump is president of the United States. [ Cheers and applause ] We will move the American embassy to the eternal capital of the jewish people, Jerusalem. [ Cheers and applause ] 18:52:56 And we will send a clear signal that there is no daylight between America and our most reliable ally, the state of Israel. [ Cheers and applause ] The Palestinians must come to the table, knowing that the bond between the United States and Israel is absolutely totally unbreakable. [ applause ] They must come to the table willing and able to stop the terror, being committed on a daily basis against Israel. They must do that. [ Applause ] And they must come to the table willing to accept that Israel is a jewish state, and it will forever exist as a jewish state. 18:54:03 I love the people in this room. I love Israel. I love Israel. I've been with Israel so long in terms of -- I've received some of my greatest honors from Israel. My father before me, incredible. My daughter, ivanka, is about to have a beautiful jewish baby. [ Cheers and applause ] In fact, it could be happening right now, which would be very nice as far as I'm concerned. So I want to thank you very much. This has been a truly great honor. Thank you, everybody. Thank you. Thank you very much. JOHN KASICH 17:36:00 >> Thank you very much I am delighted to be back at aipac the organization I have worked with sincerely '80s. Back then your audience was in the hundreds , the testament to AIPAC is that those crowds are now in the thousands as we can see today. You know I first visited Israel in 1983 with my late dear friend Gordon Zacks. As you all know Gordon was a founding member of the aipac and it was on that trip that I actually visited Bethlehem and I called my mother on Christmas night from Jerusalem. As you can imagine it was a very very special moment and Gordon always reminded me of it. Gordon helped me as much as anyone has over the years to know and to appreciate the importance of our relationship with Israel and Israel's unique security challenges. 17:36:55 And I can think of of better guy who could have taken me to Israel. It was on my trip in 1983 that Gordon introduce me to Avital Sharansky when he husband (naton?) was still in soviet prison. She told me her husband's story over lunch at the King David Hotel in Jerusalem and said she was going to Washington to plead for his release. I asked her would you mind if I organized a rally in support of your husband on the steps of the capital. And so we came together in a bipartisan way to call for (Naton?) Shiranksys release. [Cheers and applause] 17:37:39 You know Gordy had taken Sharansky into the oval office to meet with President Reagan and when the meeting ended Mrs. Sharansky was told by the president I will not rest until your husband is free. Sharansky's story has always inspired me from the day that Gordy introduced me to Avital but I don't know how many of you here have read his book fear no evil. Natan wrote in that book as I related to him and he said I'm glad that you (?). But when they went to him in the prison they wanted him to confess something and they said you understand that galileo even confessed. And think about him sitting in that prison in solitary confinement and he thought to himself and told them, you are using galileo against me, no one will ever use me against any other prisoner of conscious. For that he deserves to always be remembered 17:38:52 I had a phone conversation with Natan for years but never had the chains to meet him and ironically I met him at the cemetery when we laid Gordy Zachs to rest where Natan gave the eulogy on behalf of our great friend. I'll want to make it clear to all of you thta I remain unwavering in my support for the jewish state and the unique partnership between the US and Israel. 17:39:42 When I was first introduced to Israel and some of it's leaders of course the core of our partnership with Israel was already well defined and we give thanks to Harry Truman for the courageous steps he took when Israel was first established. And I applaud our continuing legacy of support of the Jewish state and the struggles and inventiveness and vitality of the jewish people. This legacy is one that I will not only honor in the tea partier ship between the United States and Israel. [Cheers and applause] When I was first introduced to Israel the core of the partnership with Israel was already very well defined for those courageous steps he took when Israel was first established. 17:39:57 [Applause] And I applaud our continuing legacy of support for the jewish state and the struggles, inventiveness and vitality of the jewish people. This legacy is one that I will not only honor in my administration but will take active steps to strengthen and expand. I want you all to know something very special to me, because it was at a ceremony recognizing the holocaust that as governor I proposed that we build a permanent memorial so that people and particularly our young people could understand the history and the lesson of man's inhumanity to man and the incredible suffering visited upon the Jews across the globe. I worked with such prominent Ohioans as the ratners, the (sp?) and many other members of the Jewish community over three years to make it happen.They told me it could not be done and I said you watch me, we will build a memorial. The memorial finally was designed by Daniel Libeskind (sp?) and it was the first of its find in the nation. And You all please come to Columbus and look at it, it is just beautiful. But I want to tell you that a very good friend of mine, Victor Goodman, a prominent member of the jewish community in Ohio, asked me to take him over to look at that memorial before it was unveiled. 17:41:26 We walked over behind the tarp. I had my arm around his shoulder and we read the inscription and the memorial together. And I will never forget when he finished reading it, he buried his head in my chest and wept. And we wept together. And he looked at me and he said, John, thank you for what you have done here. This will exist as long as the state of Ohio exists. As you may know, I served on the house armed services committee for 18 years, and I worked to implement Ronald Reagan's strategy to revitalize our military and to defeat the soviet union. Together my colleagues in congress and I gave our alliance with Israel meaning. We assured Israel's continuing qualitative military edge by authoring the initial $10 million for the arrow iron dome anti-missile program that we know is so critical to the security of Israel. 17:42:33 [ Applause ] We supported the Fanton 2000 program guaranteeing Israeli air superiority with the latest fighters and the transfer of reactive armor technology that has made the Israeli tanks so effective. I think it can be fairly said that my support and friendship for our strategic partner, Israel, has been firm and unwavering for more than 35 years of my professional life. [ Applause ] Israel is the only democracy in the Middle East, has turned into faithful and dependable friends. The American friends of Israel are not fair weather friends. They recognize the strategic hinge with Israel and that America's and Israel's interests are tightly intertwined, despite our inevitable disagreements from time to time. 17:43:28 We share a critically important common interest in the middle East, the unrelenting opposition to Iran's attempts to develop nuclear weapons. [ Applause ] In March of 2015, when the prime minister spoke out against the Iran nuclear deal before a joint session of congress, I flew to Washington and stood on the floor of the house of representatives that was in session, the first time I had visited since we had been in session in 15 years, and I did it to show my respect, my personal respect to the people of Israel. [ Applause ] 17:44:13 And I want you all to know that I have called for the suspension of the U.S.' participation in the Iran nuclear deal in reaction to Iran's recent ballistic missile tests. [ Cheers and applause ] These tests were both a violation of the spirit of the nuclear deal and provocations that can no longer be ignored. One of the missiles tested had printed on it in hebrew, can you believe this, Israel must be exterminated. And I will instantly gather the world and lead us to re-apply sanctions if Iran violates one crossed T or one dot of that nuclear deal. We must put the sanctions back on them as the world community, together. [ Applause ] 17:45:35 Let me also tell you no amount of money that's being made by any business will stand in the way of the need to make sure that the security of Israel is secured and that Iran does not have a nuclear weapon. No amount of money can push us in the wrong direction. And I want you to be assured that in a Kasich administration, there will be no more delusional agreements with self-declared enemies. No more. And as the candidate in this race with the deepest and most far-reaching foreign policy and national security experience, ladies and gentlemen, I don't need on-the-job training, I will not have to learn about the dangers facing this country and our allies, I have lived these matters for decades. One day -- and on day one in the oval office I will have in place a solid team of experienced and dedicated people who will implement a long-term strategic program to assure the security and safety of this country and that of its allies, such as Israel. I will lead and make decisions, and my national security appointees will work tirelessly with Israel to counter Iran's regional aggression and sponsorship of terror. 17:46:49 We will help to interdict weapons supplies to Hezbollah, we will defeat ISIS in syria and Iraq and we will assist Israel to interdict Iranian arm supplies and financial flows to hamas. Let me stress, I will also work to build and expand on Israel's newfound regional relations as a result of the flawed Iran nuclear deal, amazing. Israel and the Arab gulf states are now closer than ever. The bad news here is that the U.S. Is not part of this new web of relations. I will work to participate in, expand and strengthen those ties. [ Applause ] 17:47:37 Israelis live in one of the world's roughest neighborhoods and Iran is not the only threat that the U.S. And Israel both face there. ISIS, headquartered in Syria and Iraq, is a mortal peril. Of course, ladies and gentlemen, its spread must be stopped. Since it is dedicated to destruction in Israel, the Middle East, Europe, Africa, Asia and the United States, it is a threat to all civilization unless we recognize and unite around this central truth, we will remain committed to an ineffective and piecemeal approach to dealing with ISIS. Because the world recognizes the existential threat posed by ISIS, I believe I can lead a regional and nato coalition to defeat ISIS both from the air and on the ground in Syria and in Iraq. We're all in this together. I will also provide support and relief to our common ally, Jordan, that has shared the brunt of refugee flows, and I will bring our troops home as soon as we, together with our allies, have created a realistic prospect that regional powers can conclude a settlement guaranteeing long-term security there. 17:48:53 I will then support allied coalitions as they destroy ISIS' various regional affiliates. My administration will cooperate with our allies to deny Libya's oil as a resource, deny Libya as a platform to mount attacks against Europe and disband what has become a hub for acts of terror throughout Africa. I will support our common vital ally, Egypt, in its efforts to destroy the insurgency in sinai and terrorists infiltrating from Libya. And I will provide the Afghan national security forces with the key aircraft and support needed to defeat the Taliban, Al Qaeda and ISIS and then I will bring our troops in Afghanistan back home. [ Applause ] 17:49:40 Insurgent states such as Iran and network transnational actors such as ISIS are not the only threats that Israel, the jewish American community and America together face. Believe me, a Kasich administration will work from the beginning to block and eliminate any form of intolerance, bigotry, racism or anti-semitism whether domestic or international, particularly in international bodies. [ Applause ] I condemn all attempts to isolate pressure and delegitimize the state of Israel, and I will support congress' efforts to allow this activity both here and in the eu. And I am also very concerned about rising attacks on Israel and jewish students on our college campuses. I pledge to use -- [ applause ] 17:50:59 I pledge to use the full force of the white house to fight this scourge and I will make sure we have have the tools needed to protect students from hate speech, harassment and intimidation while supporting free speech on our college campuses. I've been horrified by the recent spate of Palestinian attacks of Israeli citizens. These are not spontaneous actions of lone wolves. They are part of an unprecedented wave of terror that is involved over 200 attacks on Israelis since October 2015. And they are the outcome of a culture of death that the Palestinian authority and its forbearers have promoted for over 50 years. [ Applause ] 17:51:58 Indoctrination of hate has long been part of a planned and well thought out strategy. Palestinian children are raised in a culture that glorifies martyrdom and the willingness to die in the pursuit of killing or maiming Israelis. Children textbooks have been filled with vile anti semitism, Families of suicide killers receive an annuity after they kill and maim, imprisoned terrorists receive stipends and are guaranteed jobs in the Palestinian civil service and a salary determined by the length of their sense. Public squares, and streets and soccer tournaments are named after terrorists. If they truly want peace with israel than Palestinians cannot continue to promote a culture of hatred and death. We must make it clear that we will not tolerate such behavior. [ Applause ] 17:53:00 And I do not believe there is any prospect for a permanent peace until the Palestinian authority and their friends in hamas and Hezbollah are prepared to take real steps to live in peace with Israel and recognize Israel's right to exist as a jewish state. This violence is unacceptable. In the meantime, we can best advance stability in the region by providing Israel our 100% support. We can make sure Israel has what it needs to defend itself with weapons, information technology, political solidarity and working quietly to facilitate Palestinian and Israeli efforts at reconciliation. This is what would be expected of a dependable ally. 17:53:54 Folks, let me conclude by talking about the greatest alliances or those with countries such as Israel where we share a community of values. The post-war international system that we and our allies build upon these common values, of course, is under challenge or attack. And that's why we have to recommit ourselves to those values. We must not shy away from proclaiming and celebrating them and why we must revitalize our alliances to defend and expand the international system, build upon those values. A system that's prevented global conflict and lifted over 2 billion people out of poverty in the last 70 years. In doing this, we cannot go it alone. We must hang together and be realistic about what we can achieve. We cannot be neutral in defending our allies either. We must be counted on to stand by and invest in our friends instead of abusing them and currying favor with our enemies. 17:54:50 For effective governance in our democracy and for the sake of the future, we have to work together at home, as well across party and ideological lines wherever and whenever possible. This is exactly what I've done in the course of my career in public service. I reached out to the other side countless times to see how we can sit together and achieve the progress that America wants and deserves. And we all look back to the time of Ronald Reagan and his meetings with tip o'neil where they came together to put America first, politics and partisanship second and Reagan, as he reached across the aisle to tip o'neill, very partisan, legendary, they managed to hammer out deals that gave Reagan victories in revitalizing our economy and implementing the military build-up that ended the cold war. But It took a conscious effort and an attitude of wanting to cooperate so this is what I want to do, Republicans and Democrats who are here today. We need to work together with congress on an agenda that serves the interest of the nation as a whole. 17:55:57 We are Americans before we are Republicans or Democrats. We are Americans. [ Applause ] And let me tell you in regard to that, I will not take the low road to the highest office in the land. I will not do it. [ Applause ] Yes, we will rededicate ourselves to reaching the bipartisan national security policy that president Reagan and the Democrats achieved. You can be assured that my strategic program will include and incorporate Israel as the bedrock partner for our mutual security in the Middle East. Together we will combat violence incited in Israel itself and of course its eternal capital Jerusalem. [ Applause ] 17:57:23 Thank you. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to be here today in front of so many of you who've contributed so much. I'm humbled by the chance to stand here at this incredible gathering of people who so much love America and so much love our great ally Israel. You see, we're connected together. It's about civilization. It's about peace. It's about love. It's about togetherness. 17:57:59 It's about healing the world. The great jewish tradition is everyone lives a life a little bigger than themselves. And that tradition has worked its way deep into my soul where I tell people all across America, dig down deep. The lord has made you special. Live a life bigger than yourself. Lift others. Heal, provide hope. Provide progress. And with that, the rest of this century and the relationship between the United States and Israel will grow stronger and stronger for the benefit and mutual security of the world. Thank you all very much, and God bless you. Dukakis/Kreutz More to come on HRC's speech at AIPAC from Ali, but she just had a big riff going directly after Trump. Although she didn't mention him by name, her message was clear: "We need steady hands, not a president who says he's neutral on Monday, pro-Israel on Tuesday and who knows what on Wednesday, because everything's negotiable," she said, referring to Trump's recent remark that he's "neutral" on Israel/Palestine. "Some things aren't negotiable," she added later, "And anyone who doesn't understand that has no business being our president." Snap stream log, not 100% accurate, h/t Alana- [10:13:16 AM] For the security of Israel and the world, we need America to remain a respected global leader committed to defending and advancing the international order, an America able to block efforts to isolate or attack Israel. The alternative is unthinkable. [ Applause ] . >> Yes, we need steady hands, not a president who says he's neutral on Monday, pro Israel on Tuesday, and who knows what on Wednesday because everything'snegotiable. [ Applause ] >> Well, my friends, Israel's security is nonnegotiable. [ Applause ] I have sat in Israeli hospital rooms holding the hands of men and women whose bodies and lives were torn apart by terrorist bombs. I've listened to doctors describe the shrapnel left in a leg, an arm, or even a head. That's why I feel to strongly that America can't ever be neutral when it comes to Israel's security or survival. We can't be neutral when rockets rain down on residential neighborhoods. [10:15:17 AM] When civilians are stabbed in the street, when decide bombers are target the innocent. Some things aren't negotiable, and anyone who doesn't understand that has no business being our president. -- Liz Kreutz | Digital Journalist | ABC News | 646-584-9604 | T: @ABCLiz **ABC UNI CUTS SHOT - TAPE C/B - inquire if you want slug!** Clinton's presumable swings at Trump began right off the bat of her speech to AIPAC Monday morning in Washington - but later in her remarks, she made hard, direct hits. "Americans and Israelis face currents of intolerance and extremism that threaten the moral foundations of our societies," Clinton explained towards the end of her speech. "Now, in a democracy we're going to have differences. But what Americans are hearing on the campaign trail this year is something else entirely, encouraging violence, playing coy with white supremacists, calling for 12 million immigrants to be rounded up and deported. Demanding we turn away refugees because of their religion and proposing a ban on all muslims entering the United States, " Clinton said, clearly referencing Trump policies and remarks. [10:28:53] She added, "Now, we've had dark chapters in our history before. We remember the nearly 1,000 Jews aboard the St. Louis who were refused entry in 1939 and sent back to Europe. "But America should be better than this, and I believe it's our responsibility as citizens to say so," Clinton explained. "If you see bigotry, oppose it. If you see violence, condemn it. If you see a bully, stand up to him," Clinton said to applause. [10:30] Other good lines: "As APEC members you understand that while the turmoil to the Middle East presents challenge and complexity, walking away is not an option. Candidates for president who think the United States can outsource Middle East security to dictators [10:02:04 AM] or that America no longer has vital national interests at stake in this region are dangerously wrong. " "It would be a serious mistake for the United States to abandon our responsibilities or seed the mantle of leadership for global peace and security to anyone else," she added to applause. Later discussing the Iran nuclear deal, Clinton said: "tonight you'll here other candidates about Iran, but there's a big difference about talking about holding Tehran accountable and actually doing it. Our next president has to be able to hold together our global coalition and impose real consequences for even the smallest violations of this agreement. [ Applause ] We must maintain the legal and diplomatic architecture to turn all the sanctions back on if needed." [10:18:47 AM] On Israel: "We marvel that such liberty exists in a region so plagued by intolerance..."We see the vigorous debate in Israeli politics and feel right at home. And, of course, some of us remember a woman leading Israel's government decades ago and wonder what's taking us so long here in America? [ Applause ] [10:29:00 AM] Ali Dukakis Digital Journalist ABC News | Washington, D.C. w: 202 222 6093 <tel:202%20222%206093> c: 202 489 9458 <tel:202%20489%209458> @ajdukakis Just circling back to report that Kasich just delivered his remarks at AIPAC, hitting on all the points below almost word-for-word as they were drafted earlier with no substantive deviations from the script. Strangely, though, he rushed through his line jabbing at Trump - "we cannot be neutral in defending our allies" - garnering little applause. According to Jess Hopper at the venue, Kasich received several standing ovations, including when he spoke about the Iran nuclear deal, how people should be Americans before they are Republicans or Democrats (which he says all the time) and how Palestinians must recognize Israel's right to exist. Also of note, he repeatedly mispronounced Soviet dissident-turned-Jewish Agency head Natan Sharansky's first name as "NAY-tahn" instead of "Na-TAHN," despite Kasich explaining that Sharansky was a significant part of his early connection to Israel. And for this speech, Kasich wore glasses and read from prepared remarks, two things he almost never does on the campaign trail. Ben Gittleson | ABC News c: +1 646-740-9341 o: +1 212-456-1616 Twitter: @bgittleson GOP front runner Donald Trump did something he's never done before in his race for the White House - he read a speech, and basically stuck to it. Trump promised the crowd "when I become President, the days of treating Israel like a second-class citizen will end on Day One. When I say something I mean it." He constantly in the speech told the crowd to "believe me" - a line he invokes often on the trail, but something he repeatedly often tonight. Trump hit President Obama several times, than finally hit Hillary Clinton. "You see, what President Obama gets wrong about deal making is that he constantly applies pressure to our friends and rewards our enemies. That pattern, practiced by the President and his administration, including former Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton, has repeated itself over and over and has done nothing but embolden those who hate America." He also said the UN "is not a friend of democracy. It's not a friend to freedom. It's not a friend even to the United States of America, where as all know, it has its home. And it surely isn't a friend to Israel." He received a large applause when he talked about moving the US Embassy to Jerusalem: 17:52 - We will move the American embassy to the eternal capital of the Jewish people, Jerusalem - and we will send a clear signal that there is no daylight between America and our most reliable ally, the state of Israel. 17-53-05 As he closed out his speech, he broke into his usual rhythm and from his prepared text "I love Israel.I've been with Israel so long.my daughter Ivanka is about to have a beautiful Jewish baby!" Classic Donald. -- John T. Santucci ABC News - Campaign 2016 C: 516-376-0312 T: @JTSantucci E: John.T.Santucci@abc.com <mailto:John.T.Santucci@abc.com> Of all the GOP candidates to address AIPAC today, Sen. Ted Cruz was the most direct in attacking his fiercest rival, Donald Trump. Cruz began throwing the jabs at the beginning of his speech. "Let me say at the outset, perhaps to the surprise of a previous speaker, Palestine has not existed since 1948," said Cruz to laughs and cheers. 19:02:59 Cruz also made the arena laugh when he joked about the fundraiser his former foe and now friend Sen. Lindsey Graham hosted today on behalf of Cruz. "Indeed, just today, my colleague Lindsay Graham very kindly hosted an event for me here, which should allay any doubts anyone might have that the god of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob can still do miracles," said Cruz. 19:05:50 Cruz previously said he planned to use his AIPAC speech to draw contrasts with Trump since Trump refused to debate him tonight in Salt Lake City. He did draw contrasts, but none of them were new. All except his initial jab about Palestine were lines Cruz uses routinely in his stump speech. Cruz hit Trump for saying he'd be neutral when it came to Israel and the Palestinians. "In a similar vein, my leading Republican opponent has promised that he as president would be neutral between Israel and the Palestinians. Let me be very, very clear, as president, I will not be neutral. [ Cheers and applause ] America will stand unapologetically with the nation of Israel," Cruz said. 19:13:30 He also criticized Trump for saying he'd renegotiate the Iran Nuclear Deal. "Both Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump have said they would maintain this Iranian deal, although Donald has promised, he's going to negotiate and get a better deal. Well, my view is very different. On the first day in office, I will rip this catastrophic Iranian nuclear deal to shreds," Cruz said. 19:14:30 Cruz appeared to be looking towards the general election at times by criticizing Hillary Clinton and imagining himself as the leader of a newly unified Republican party. "In the next few months, we will bring this country together, first by unifying the Republican party, and then by reaching out and building a coalition of young people and hispanics and African-Americans and women and blue collar workers and jewish voters and Reagan Democrats which will lead to a commanding victory in November that unifies this country and brings us together," Cruz said. 19:03:48 Cruz criticized Hillary Clinton for her 2014 remarks about Gaza. "Well, Madam Secretary, with all respect, the reason the missiles are in schools is not because Gaza is small. The reason the missiles are in schools is because Hamas are terrorist monsters using children as human shields," Cruz said. 19:10:08 Cruz also called on federal funds for anyone who provides financial support to the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement. I have not heard him say this before. "I will do everything in my power to ensure that anyone who provides financial support to the BDS movement, including schools and universities, will lose any access to federal funding," Cruz said. -- Jessica Hopper Digital Journalist ABC News Cell: 202-617-9230 Email: Jessica.M.Hopper@abc.com <mailto:Jessica.M.Hopper@abc.com> Highlighs of Paul Ryan's remarks to AIPAC tonight ALL QUOTES ROUGH//CHECK AGAINST LOG TAPE - SNAPSTREAM below - You've heard a lot...from speakers - you know, what it's not enough though , the speeches, the statements all in the world mean nothing if you do not back them up with actions. 18:03 House renewed support for iron dome when rockets shot at it two years ago When return first trip of speakership will be to Israel As long as I am speaker we will not allow any leg that divides two countries - 18:04 "American is safer when we stand with Israel. So if there's one thing I would ask you to take away from this night it's this: my colleauges and I will do everything we can to concrete our friendship.." "that's what I think most time.some people say "Middle East a mess// a liability // hamstrings America 6:05 "friendships between two countries is in not just our countries interest but both countries interest - interest of the world" 6:06 6:10 "so why is our relationship with Israel so important? Because our fight in Israel against terrorism is one and the same: Israel is first target and America is ultimate target. Because they have same vaules 6:11 "but it does help police protect here in our country fails to realize what allies need 617 you're going to make a huge decision in 2016, and in the house we're hoping to crystallize that.take words of Gen. Patteson (?) 'we need to take our own side in this fight' SNAPSTREAM LOG H/T MALKA - MUST BE CHECKED applause] All I have to say is wow. It is nice to see you here today. [Applause] I want to say that thank you so much for invitee me today end of to Washington D.C. I heard from a lot of folks today you have heard from a lot of folks today. [Laughter] It is always a good thing when America's leaders declare support for Israel. But that is not enough. The speeches, statements speeches, statements, allthe burden of world me nothing if you did not back them up with action. [6:03:23 PM] [Cheers and applause] That is why two years ago when the rockets -- rockets were falling on tel aviv the house approved emergency support for the iron dome. [Applause] And that is why we did just two months of me taking the speakership we voted to fund every penny of our assistance commitment. [Applause] And that is why in my trip overseas as speaker of the house my first trip will be to return to Israel. [Cheers and applause] And that is why I can pledge to you tonight as long as I am speaker of the house house, mobile will not allow any legislation that divides our countries to come to the house floor for any consideration. [Applause] It is action and deeds that build trust. And our friendship is too important to. The dangers we face are two real to let there be any misgivings between us.Like my house colleagues I and a stand that America is not safer when we back away from Israel. It is safer when we stand with Israel. [Applause] So if there is one thing I would ask you to take away from tonight to is this common my colleagues and I will do everything we can and to strengthen ourfriendship. [6:05:26 PM] Digest with words but concrete achievements. Note taking funds for granted her leaving the middle lurch it is a priority in American leaders should act like is. [Applause] That is my take most Americans believe fumble sides of the aisle. But I do hear people raising doubts every now and then to say things like the middleEast is a mess it is none of our business. Why are we taking sides? The say however appliance is some liability. They say that I hamstrings America and cuts against our interests and in my experience it does us no good to wave off our opponents to dismiss them as narrow minded or be high-minded about it. That is a bridge to divide that deepens the divide. Instead we need to confront our critics' arguments head on and have a real conversation and I would say that I firmly believe thatthe friendship between our two countries is not just in Israel's interest in America's interest. [Applause] It is good for Israel and good for America and good for the world. It is really just a lesson in history. For many years we avoided but Thomas Jefferson called the entangling alliances. The great powers that they wanted to use for their own purposes so we stayed out. [6:07:39 PM] That all changes with world War II. We learn the hard way even if you don't go looking for trouble and has a way of finding you. The date that Japan bombed pearl harbor we realize to oceans could no longer protect us anymore. Our interest reached across the world and so did the threat. We could not be in north America north Africa the to deliberate the islands of the south pacific. We had to work with other countries who share our objective is. And we had to lead a global alliance.And a new threat to either merged setting up public regimes all across evening missiles that the friends in western Europe soviets faced the choice either withdrawfrom a the world and ourselves to make ourselves into a garrison state or pursue a four word meaning defense with icky video free nations to keep open commerce these are the years that we create the imf in did 1948 we're the first country to recognize minutes after she declared Independence. [Cheers and applause] >> The first country. [6:09:47 PM] Both the cold war A&M of World War we are safer when we work with each other and stem by a each other and trust each other because then with the threat ariseswe are confronted together. Those threats are very different now. North Korea displays the nuclear weapons Iran backs terrorist groups says it will jockey for dominance in the Middle East. It even with the rise of ISIS it has taken hold. To face the aggressive ideology. New York is that relationship so important? Because of the fight against terrorism the interest is one in the same. In we are the ultimate target. [Applause] Is a liberal democracy with those countries become stronger. And just remember and to fight terrorism in our country. [Cheers and applause] >> Pretty profound. This is the crux of the matter. The current administration understand that we need our allies but it fails to understand what our allies need. [6:11:58 PM] [Applause] They need more than assurances that we have their back but they need to see with their own eyes the commitments I do say this to castigate or police blamed the to bring clarity to the situation we're facing. This is the most fundamental misunderstanding that has undermined our security. Exhibit a is the everyonedeal. [Applause] I think that was a terrible deal. [Cheers and applause] Not since then have we seen like this deal. End because of this deal our friends in the bellies are losing faith in us or at least in our judgment.I really got billions of dollars of sanctions and relief in exchange for what? Or just taking up some of the nuclear program? Indebted 10 or 15 years they all expire? In other words, , they get something for E essentially nothing. If it was a steel. [Applause] And headed is if they don't cheat. [Laughter] [6:14:00 PM] We all want the negotiations to a succeed but we were supposed to get something out of its. It is fine to negotiate with their enemies. It really is but not at all your friends expense that doesn't make any of the safer. [Applause] I don't think it is an accident that every few months we hear of Iran launching another ballistic missile is said and dismantling the program. We legitimize it. This is a huge threat to Israel into our country is. I am going to make something clear with the publisher support it optimistic or skeptical and I sense a fewskeptics in this room today but it is your right to question your government on any issue at any time. [Cheers and applause] That is applied to aipac does and why you were here. If anybody questions that right, of beastie and with few. [Applause] So we have to do everything we can to shore up our alliance. We have to hold their Rand accountable for its violations and push back against Iranian aggression. A and extend our bilateral security agreement and also include missile defense. [6:16:02 PM] And one more thing to the ways avd means we have to push back with clarity. With any attempts by any other country to boycott to ever sanctioned Israel. This is where your voice is and must be heard. This is what they're going to do to us. We can and must me clear on this. And did you know, what this does? It sends a signal is the will stand by through a thick and thin. We have a choice coming. You have people running for president. But here is what we see. You have a choice coming.We will make a big choice in 2016 and along those lines in the house we will try to help crystallize that choice. In to design a strategy and to strengthen allegiances inthe with the words of general James Madison and that we need to take our own side in this fight. [Applause] There is a cited to be taking. Then we will need the help of aipac and everyone here today. A and we need especially the help of the young people better here in this room. [6:18:12 PM] [Applause] Why? Because of the decisions that we make today to determine what type of world you can hear it just knowing you want to take part gives me hope for the future because of your help we can do this. I want to leave you with this. We need to build a confident America. That it does not shrink from commitments or allies. Into a cozy up to Iran a confidence America keeps its word. We stand by our allies and Israel that is of those countries need. I do I just threw a lot that you into thinking what does he care about is real? -- Israel but there is a vibrant jewish comedian Wisconsin. [Applause] Id everyone are die-hard Green Bay packer fans. [Laughter] This is something we're very proud of. Also give a tour of the Israel committee and all walks of life. When we visited different houses of worship one of the most questions is what the short position on Israel? [6:20:20 PM] It is it just some constituency but my friends and family and neighbors. The committee has done so much for Wisconsin you will always have my deepest gratitude. [Applause] So I just want to thank you for having me tonight and in advance for the work between Israel and America to make sure we get it right make sure you keep doing it. God bless. Ali Dukakis Digital Journalist ABC News | Washington, D.C. c: 202 489 9458 @ajdukakis

WASH 7 AIPAC AFTERNOON SESSION HEAD ON POOL C16 032116 WASH 8 AIPAC AFTERNOON SESSION SWITCH POOL C16 032116 TED CRUZ 19:02:59 >> God bless aipac. [ Cheers and applause ] I'm thrilled to be here with you today. And let me say at the outset, perhaps to the surprise of a previous speaker, palestine has not existed since 1948. [ Cheers and applause ] On Wednesday night of this week, in synagogues across the world, jewish people will read the magila, which tells the story of purim, the miraculous rescue. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:03:48 The miraculous rescue of the jewish people from the hands of a wicked persian king. When the evil doer Haman plots to kill the Jews, he describes them as a nation that is scattered and spread out. The town that (?) teaches that the jewish people at the time were divided amongst themselves, and that the lesson is that when the forces of good are divided, evil can prevail. But when we come together in unity together, we can defeat tyrants. Today we are reliving history. Facing a similar time of challenge for America, and for Israel. But today I give you a word of hope. In the next few months, we will bring this country together, first by unifying the Republican party, and then by reaching out and building a coalition of young people and hispanics and African-Americans and women and blue collar workers and jewish voters and Reagan Democrats. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:05:07 Which will lead to a commanding victory in November that unifies this country and brings us together. [ Applause ] And standing together, America will stand with Israel and defeat radical islamic terrorism. [ Cheers and applause ] I want to thank the delegates, the over 18,000 people here, the 4,000 young people, the leaders of the pro-Israel movement who are gathered here today. [ Applause ] You will play a critical leadership role in making this happen, and bringing us together. 19:05:50 Indeed, just today, my colleague Lindsay Graham very kindly hosted an event for me here, which should allay any doubts anyone might have that the god of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob can still do miracles. [ Laughter ] I want to begin by asking all of us to remember Taylor Force, a texan who hailed from Lubbock, an eagle scout, a west point graduate, an army veteran.On March 8th he was stabbed to death by a Palestinian terrorist in Israel. The terrorist didn't ask for his passport. Influenced by the relentless campaign of incitement that has fostered genocidal hatred toward Jews, all he cared about was injuring or killing as many civilians as possible. At least ten people were wounded by the time the terrorist was neutralized. The brutal murder of Taylor Force is yet another reminder that America and Israel are in the fight together against radical islamic terrorism. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:07:07 We need a president who will be a champion for America. And we need a president who will be a champion for Israel. [ Cheers and applause ] In my time in the senate, I have endeavored to do both. In the four years I've been serving in the senate, I've been privileged to travel three times to the state of Israel. I had the great privilege of seeing the (?) hospital in northern Israel where they have treated over 1,000 refugees from Syria, wounded in that horrible Syrian civil war, have done so free of charge, showing the heart and character of the people of Israel. 19:08:01 [ Cheers and applause ] When the nation of Iran named as their ambassador to the united nations, Hamid Abuddalabi (sp?), a known terrorist who participated in holding Americans hostage in the late 1970s, people in Washington said there was nothing we could do. Well, I was proud to introduce legislation barring Abuddalabi (sp?) from coming to America.That legislation passed the senate 100 to nothing. It passed the house 435 to nothing. And it was signed into law by president Obama. [ Cheers and applause ] [ Cheers and applause ] When Israel was facing relentless rocket attacks from hamas, and the prayers of all of us, and people across the world were with Israel, prime minister Netanyahu powerfully observed, we are using missile defense to protect our civilians. And they are using their civilians to protect their missiles. I entirely agree with prime minister Netanyahu, as hamas would place rockets in elementary schools. They placed their headquarters in the basement of a hospital. And I would note, that Hillary Clinton, in 2014, explained this as follows. Quote, "hamas puts its missiles, its rockets in civilian areas. Part of it is because gaza's pretty small. And it's densely populated." Well, madam secretary, with all respect, the reason the missiles are in schools is not because gaza is small. The reason the missiles are in schools is because hamas are terrorist monsters using children as human shields. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:10:08 And in response to this atrocity, I was proud to join with New York Democrat kirsten Gillibrand in authoring a resolution condemning hamas' use as human shields as a war crime, and that resolution passed both houses of congress unanimously. [ Cheers and applause ] In the midst of these rocket attacks, we saw the Obama administration cancel civilian airline flights into the nation of Israel. When that happened, I publicly asked the question, did this administration just launch an economic boycott on the nation of Israel. [ Cheers and applause ] The administration does not ban flights into Pakistan, does not ban flights into Yemen, does not ban flights into Afghanistan. Indeed, did not ban flights into much of Ukraine. And Ukraine had just seen a passenger airliner shot down by a Russian buk missile. So why exactly was a disproportionate sanction put on Israel, because one rocket fell harmlessly a mile away from magaria (sp?) airport, one of the safest airports in the world. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:11:25 And why was that time to coincide with John Kerry arriving in the Middle East with $47 million for gaza that would inevitably end up with hamas terrorists. [ Applause ] When I asked that question, within hours the state department was being asked, is this an economic boycott of Israel? The state department said, that question is ridiculous. We refuse to answer. So I responded, fine, I will place a hold on every nominee to the state department. [ Cheers and applause ] Shortly thereafter, former new York mayor Michael Bloomberg rode a civilian airliner from London to tel aviv demonstrating that it was safe to fly to Israel. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:12:18 And as a result of mayor Bloomberg's efforts and my efforts and that of millions of others, the heat and light and attention became too much on this administration, and within 36 hours, the administration lifted its ban on civilian air flights to Israel. [ Cheers and applause ] Looking forward, as president, I will lead very, very differently from the current administration. [ Cheers and applause ] Imagine just a few years ago, if I had come to an aipac conference and suggested that the prime minister of Israel was going to come to America, address a joint session of congress, and he would be boycotted by the president of the United States, the vice president of the United States, and every member of the cabinet. That would have been dismissed as crazy, fanciful. That could never happen. And sadly, that is exactly what did happen when prime minister Netanyahu came to address congress. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:13:30 In a similar vein, my leading Republican opponent has promised that he as president would be neutral between Israel and the Palestinians. Let me be very, very clear, as president, I will not be neutral. [ Cheers and applause ] America will stand unapologetically with the nation of Israel. [ Cheers and applause ] So what does that mean specifically? Let's start with today's persian king, the nation of Iran. Both Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump have said they would maintain this Iranian deal, although Donald has promised, he's going to negotiate and get a better deal. Well, my view is very different. On the first day in office, I will rip this catastrophic Iranian nuclear deal to shreds. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:14:48 This agreement gives over $100 billion to the ayatollah khomeini, the world's state sponsor of terrorism. That dwarfs the $3 billion in military aid that we give each year to the nation of Israel. That difference is not just unconscionable, it is fundamentally immoral. And if I am president, on the first day, we will reimpose sanctions on Iran. [ Cheers and applause ] In a mockery of this Iranian nuclear deal, Iran has continued with missile tests, including launching a missile with the words printed on it in both hebrew and farsi, Israel should be wiped from the Earth. Hear my words, ayatollah khomeini, if I am president, and Iran launches a missile test, we will shoot that missile down. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:15:55 And in January 2017, we will have a commander in chief who says, under no circumstances will Iran be allowed to acquire nuclear weapons, either you will shut down your nuclear program or we'll shut it down for you. [ Cheers and applause ] A year ago, when prime minister Netanyahu addressed congress, I was honored to join the great Ali wizel on a panel discussion in the senate about this disastrous Iranian deal. Not a single Democrat was willing to join Ali wezel. To sit alongside someone who witnessed firsthand the horrors of the holocaust. Who brings a moral weight and gravity second to none. It was both powerful and humbling. And I am convinced after this election, the American people will stand and say together, never again means never again. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:17:13 On my very first day in office, I will begin the process of moving the American embassy in Israel to Jerusalem, the once and eternal capital of Israel. [ Cheers and applause ] Now, I recognize for years a whole lot of presidential candidates, both Republicans and Democrats, have said that indeed I recognize some candidates have said that standing here today. Here's the difference. I will do it. [ Cheers and applause ] And as president, I will do everything in my power to ensure that anyone who provides financial support to the bds movement, including schools and universities, will lose any access to federal funding. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:18:22 And to the extent that they have engaged in illegal behavior, they will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. [ Cheers and applause ] All of us here understand that Israel is not the barrier to peace. It is the Palestinian authority, and a so-called unity government with hamas that celebrates the murder of women and children, and incites and even compensates the terrorist attacks. If the Palestinians try to push through a united nations resolution to unilaterally declare Palestinian statehood, America will veto that resolution. [ Cheers and applause ] Indeed, I tell you today, I will fly to New York to personally veto it myself. [ Cheers and applause ] Now, some have asked, why on Earth did a cuban-american texan become one of the leading defenders of Israel in the United States congress? Well, I would say there are several reasons. First of all, I understand that standing with Israel benefits America. [ Applause ] Israel is a liberal democracy that shares our values. Israel is a steadfast and loyal ally. 19:20:08 And our military aid to Israel is not charity. It is rather furthering the vital national security interests of the United States of America, whether it is missile defense, from iron dome to David sling, or whether it is intelligence and military cooperation, Israel provides an enormous benefit to keeping America safe and protecting us from radical islamic terrorists. [ Cheers and applause ] But on a very personal level, for me, much of my view of Israel is framed in my family story. 19:20:51 My father was born and raised in Cuba. As a kid, he fought in the Cuban revolution. He was imprisoned, he was tortured.My father fled Cuba in 1957. When he came to America, he had nothing. He had $100 sewn into his underwear. And he washed dishes, making 50 cents an hour. He paid his way through school, he went on to start a small business. When I was a kid, my dad used to say to me over and over again, when I faced oppression in Cuba,I had a place to flee to. 19:21:26 If we lose our freedom here, where do we go. And I will tell you, it is an incredible blessing to be the child of an immigrant who fled oppression and came to America seeking freedom. And there is one other nation on Earth like the United States of America that was created as an oasis, as a beacon of hope to people who had faced oppression, had faced horrible murder and persecution, the nation of Israel, like America, is a beacon of light unto the world. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:22:13 And all of us here understand, as Ronald Reagan did, that peace is achievable only through strength. This is what Israel understands, when you surrounded by neighbors who would drive you into the sea, somehow you don't have time for political correctness. [ Applause ] Weakness is provocative. Appeasement increases the chance of military conflict. Indeed, I believe this Iranian nuclear deal is Munich in 1938, and we risk once again catastrophic consequences to allowing a homicidal maniac to acquire tools to murder millions. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:23:06 The way to avoid conflict is to stand up to bullies. And it is worth remembering that this same nation, Iran, in 1981, released our hostages the day Ronald Reagan was sworn into office. [ Cheers and applause ] That is the difference a strong commander in chief can make, and together standing as one, we can and will. Do it again. Thank you. DONALD TRUMP 18:30:37 >> Good evening. Thank you very much. I speak to you today as a lifelong supporter and true friend of Israel. [ Cheers and applause ] I'm a newcomer to politics. But not to backing the jewish state. [ Applause ] In 2001, weeks after the attacks on New York City, and on Washington, and, frankly, the attacks on all of us, attacks that perpetrated, and they were perpetrated by the islamic fundamentalists, mayor Rudy Giuliani visited Israel to show solidarity with terror victims. 18:31:24 I sent my plane, because I backed the mission for Israel 100%. [ Cheers and applause ] In spring of 2004, at the height of the violence in the gaza strip, I was the grand marshal of the 40th salute to Israel parade, the largest single gathering in support of the jewish state. [ Applause ] It was a very dangerous time for Israel, and frankly, for anyone supporting Israel. Many people turned down this honor. I did not. I took the risk, and I'm glad I did. [ Cheers and applause ] But I didn't come here tonight to pander to you about Israel. That's what politicians do. All talk, no action, believe me. 18:32:30 [ Applause ] I came here to speak to you about where I stand on the future of American relations with our strategic ally, our unbreakable friendship, and our cultural brother. The only democracy in the middle East, the state of Israel. 18:32:57 [ Cheers and applause ] Thank you. My number one priority is to dismantle the disastrous deal with Iran. [ Cheers and applause ] Thank you. Thank you. I have been in business a long time. I know deal making. And let me tell you, this deal is catastrophic.For America, for Israel, and for the whole of the Middle East. [ Applause ] The problem here is fundamental. We've rewarded the world's leading state sponsor of terror with $150 billion, and we received absolutely nothing in return. [ Cheers and applause ] I've studied this issue in great detail. I would say actually greater by far than anybody else. Believe me. Oh, believe me. And it's a bad deal.The biggest concern with the deal is not necessarily that Iran is going to violate it, because already, you know, as you know, it has. The bigger problem is that they can keep the terms and still get the bomb by simply running out the clock. 18:34:34 And of course, they'll keep the billions and billions of dollars that we so stupidly and foolishly gave them. [ Applause ] The deal doesn't even require Iran to dismantle its military nuclear capability. Yes, it places limits on its military nuclear program, for only a certain number of years, but when those restrictions expire, Iran will have an industrial size military nuclear capability ready to go, and with zero provision for delay, no matter how bad Iran's behavior is. Terrible, terrible situation that we are all placed in, and especially Israel. [6:35:41 PM] 18:35:28 When I'm president, I will adopt a strategy that focuses on three things when it comes to Iran. First, we will stand up to Iran's aggressive push to destabilize and dominate the region. [ Applause ] Iran is a very big problem, and will continue to be. But if I'm not elected president, I know how to deal with trouble. And believe me, that's why I'm going to be elected president, folks. 18:36l07 And we are leading in every poll, remember that, please. Iran is a problem in Iraq, a problem in Syria, a problem in Lebanon, a problem in Yemen, and will be a very, very major problem for Saudi Arabia. Literally, every day Iran provides more and better weapons to support their puppet states. Hezbollah, Lebanon received, and I'll tell you what, it has received sophisticated anti-ship weapons, anti-aircraft weapons, and gps systems and rockets like very few people anywhere in the world, and certainly very few countries have. Now they're in Syria trying to establish another front against Israel from the Syrian side of the Golan heights. 18:37:00 In gaza, Iran is supporting hamas, and islamic jihad. And in the west bank, they're openly offering Palestinians $7,000 per terror attack, and $30,000 for every Palestinian terrorist home that's been destroyed. A deplorable, deplorable situation Iran is financing military forces throughout the middle East, and it's absolutely incredible that we handed them over $150 billion to do even more toward the many horrible acts of terror. 18:37:50 [ Applause ] Secondly, we will totally dismantle Iran's global terror network, which is big and powerful, but not powerful like us. [ Cheers and applause ] Iran has seeded terror groups all over the world. During the last five years, Iran has perpetuated terror attacks in 25 different countries on five continents. They've got terror cells everywhere, including in the western hemisphere very close to home. Iran is the biggest sponsor of terrorism around the world, and we will work to dismantle that reach, believe me. Believe me. 18:38:42 Third, at the very least, we must enforce the terms of the previous deal to hold Iran totally accountable, and we will enforce it like you've never seen a contracted enforced before, folks. Believe me. 18:39:02 Iran has already, since the deal is in place, test-fired ballistic missiles three times. Those ballistic missiles with a range of 1,250 miles were designed to intimidate, not only Israel, which is only 600 miles away, but also intended to frighten Europe and some day maybe hit even the united States. And we're not going to let that happen. We're not letting it happen. And we're not letting it happen to Israel, believe me. [ Cheers and applause ] Thank you. Thank you. 18:39:49 Do you want to hear something really shocking? As many of the great people in this room know, painted on those missiles in both hebrew and farsi Were the words Israel must be wiped off the face of the Earth. You can forget that. [ Cheers and applause ] 18:40:10 What kind of demented minds write that in hebrew. And here's another, you talk about twisted? Here's another twisted part. Testing these missiles does not even violate the horrible deal that we've made. The deal is silent on test missiles. But those tests do violate the United Nations security council resolutions. The problem is, no one has done anything about it. We will. We will, I promise, we will. [ Cheers and applause ] 18:40:51 Thank you. Which brings me to my next point. The utter weakness and incompetence of the United Nations -- [ cheers and applause ] The United Nations is not a friend of democracy. It's not a friend to freedom. It's not a friend even to the United States of America, where as you know, it has its home. And it surely is not a friend to Israel. [ Cheers and applause ] With president Obama and his final year -- yea! [ Cheers and applause ] 18:42:11 He may be the worst thing to ever happen to Israel, believe me. Believe me. And you know it. And you know it better than anybody. So with the president in his final year, discussions have been swirling about an attempt to bring a security council resolution on terms of an eventual agreement between Israel and Palestine. Let me be clear. An agreement imposed by the United Nations would be a total and complete disaster. [ Cheers and applause ] The United States must oppose this resolution, and use the power of our veto which I will use as president 100%. [ Cheers and applause ] When people ask why, it's because that's not how you make a deal. Deals are made when parties come together. They come to a table and they negotiate. Each side must give up something. It's values -- I mean, we have to do something where there's value in exchange for something that it requires. That's what a deal is. 18:43:34 A deal is really something that when we impose it on Israel and Palestine, we bring together a group of people that come up with something that's not going to happen with the United nations. It will only further, very importantly, it will only further delegitimize Israel. It will be a catastrophe and a disaster for Israel. It's not going to happen, folks. [ Cheers and applause ] And further, it would reward Palestinian terrorism, because every day they're stabbing Israelis, and even Americans. Just last week, American tailor Allen Force, a west point grad, phenomenal young person who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, was murdered in the street by a knife-wielding Palestinian. You don't reward behavior like that. You cannot do it. [ Cheers and applause ] 18:44:42 There's only one way you treat that kind of behavior. You have to confront it. [ Applause ] So it's not up to the united nations to really go with a solution, it's really the parties that must negotiate a resolution themselves. They have no choice.They have to do it themselves, or it will never hold up anyway. The United States can be useful as a facilitator of negotiations, but no one should be telling Israel that it must be -- and really, that it must abide by some agreement made by others thousands of miles away, that don't even really know what's happening to Israel, to anything in the area. It's so preposterous. We're not going to let that happen. [ Cheers and applause ] 18:45:45 When I'm president, believe me, I will veto any attempt by the U.N. To impose its will on the jewish state. It will be vetoed 100%. [ Cheers and applause ] You see, I know about deal making. That's what I do. I wrote the art of the deal. One of the best-selling all-time, and I mean seriously, I'm saying one of, because I'll be criticized when I say "The" so I'll be very diplomatic. I'll be criticized. I think it is number one, but why take a chance. [ Laughter ] One of the all-time best-selling books about deals and deal-making, to make a great deal, you need two willing participants. We know Israel is willing to deal. Israel has been trying -- 18:46:47 >> That's right. Israel has been trying to sit down at the negotiating table without preconditions for years. You had camp David in 2000, where prime minister Barak made an incredible offer, maybe even too generous. Arafat rejected it. In 2008, prime minister Omer made an equally generous offer. The Palestinian authority rejected it also. Then John Kerry tried to come up with a framework, and Abbas didn't even respond. Not even to the secretary of state of the United States of America. They didn't even respond. When I become president, the days of treating Israel like a second-class citizen will end, on day one. [ Cheers and applause ] 18:47:6 And when I say something, I mean it. I mean it. I will meet with prime minister Netanyahu immediately. I have known him for many years. And we'll be able to work closely together to help bring stability and peace to Israel, and to the entire region. Meanwhile, every single day you have rampant incitement and children being taught to hate Israel, and to hate the Jews, it has to stop. [ Applause ] When you live in a society where the firefighters are the heroes, little kids want to be firefighters. When you live in a society where athletes and movie stars are heroes, little kids want to be athletes and movie stars. In Palestinian society, the heroes are those who murder Jews. We can't let this continue. We can't let this happen any longer. [ Applause ] [ Cheers and applause ] 18:49:08 You cannot achieve peace if terrorists are treated as martyrs. Glorifying terrorists is a tremendous barrier to peace. It is a horrible, horrible way to think. It's a barrier that can't be broken. That will end, and it will end soon, believe me. [ Cheers and applause ] In Palestinian textbooks and mosques, you've got a culture of hatred that has been fermenting there for years. And if we want to achieve peace, they've got to go out, and they've got to start this educational process. They have to end education of hatred. They have to end it, and now. [ Cheers and applause ] 18:50:03 There is no moral equivalency. Israel does not name public squares after terrorists. Israel does not pay its children to stab random Palestinians. You see, what president Obama gets wrong about deal making is that he constantly applies pressure to our friends, and rewards our enemies. [ Cheers and applause ] And you see that happening all the time. That pattern practiced by the president and his administration, including former secretary of state Hillary Clinton, who is a total disaster, by the way. [ Laughter ] [ Cheers and applause ] She and president Obama have treated Israel very, very badly. [ Cheers and applause ] 18:51:10 But it's repeated itself over and over again, and has done nothing to embolden those who hate America. We saw that with releasing the $150 billion to Iran, in the hope that they would magically join the world community. It didn't happen. [ Applause ] President Obama thinks that applying pressure to Israel will force the issue, but it's precisely the opposite that happens. Already half of the population of Palestine has been taken over by the Palestinian ISIS and Hamas, and the other half refuses to confront the first half, so it's a very difficult situation that's never going to get solved unless you have great leadership right here in the United States. 18:52:02 We'll get it solved, one way or the other. We will get it solved. [ Cheers and applause ] But when the United States stands with Israel, the chances of peace really rise. And rises exponentially. That's what will happen when Donald Trump is president of the United States. [ Cheers and applause ] We will move the American embassy to the eternal capital of the jewish people, Jerusalem. [ Cheers and applause ] 18:52:56 And we will send a clear signal that there is no daylight between America and our most reliable ally, the state of Israel. [ Cheers and applause ] The Palestinians must come to the table, knowing that the bond between the United States and Israel is absolutely totally unbreakable. [ applause ] They must come to the table willing and able to stop the terror, being committed on a daily basis against Israel. They must do that. [ Applause ] And they must come to the table willing to accept that Israel is a jewish state, and it will forever exist as a jewish state. 18:54:03 I love the people in this room. I love Israel. I love Israel. I've been with Israel so long in terms of -- I've received some of my greatest honors from Israel. My father before me, incredible. My daughter, ivanka, is about to have a beautiful jewish baby. [ Cheers and applause ] In fact, it could be happening right now, which would be very nice as far as I'm concerned. So I want to thank you very much. This has been a truly great honor. Thank you, everybody. Thank you. Thank you very much. JOHN KASICH 17:36:00 >> Thank you very much I am delighted to be back at aipac the organization I have worked with sincerely '80s. Back then your audience was in the hundreds , the testament to AIPAC is that those crowds are now in the thousands as we can see today. You know I first visited Israel in 1983 with my late dear friend Gordon Zacks. As you all know Gordon was a founding member of the aipac and it was on that trip that I actually visited Bethlehem and I called my mother on Christmas night from Jerusalem. As you can imagine it was a very very special moment and Gordon always reminded me of it. Gordon helped me as much as anyone has over the years to know and to appreciate the importance of our relationship with Israel and Israel's unique security challenges. 17:36:55 And I can think of of better guy who could have taken me to Israel. It was on my trip in 1983 that Gordon introduce me to Avital Sharansky when he husband (naton?) was still in soviet prison. She told me her husband's story over lunch at the King David Hotel in Jerusalem and said she was going to Washington to plead for his release. I asked her would you mind if I organized a rally in support of your husband on the steps of the capital. And so we came together in a bipartisan way to call for (Naton?) Shiranksys release. [Cheers and applause] 17:37:39 You know Gordy had taken Sharansky into the oval office to meet with President Reagan and when the meeting ended Mrs. Sharansky was told by the president I will not rest until your husband is free. Sharansky's story has always inspired me from the day that Gordy introduced me to Avital but I don't know how many of you here have read his book fear no evil. Natan wrote in that book as I related to him and he said I'm glad that you (?). But when they went to him in the prison they wanted him to confess something and they said you understand that galileo even confessed. And think about him sitting in that prison in solitary confinement and he thought to himself and told them, you are using galileo against me, no one will ever use me against any other prisoner of conscious. For that he deserves to always be remembered 17:38:52 I had a phone conversation with Natan for years but never had the chains to meet him and ironically I met him at the cemetery when we laid Gordy Zachs to rest where Natan gave the eulogy on behalf of our great friend. I'll want to make it clear to all of you thta I remain unwavering in my support for the jewish state and the unique partnership between the US and Israel. 17:39:42 When I was first introduced to Israel and some of it's leaders of course the core of our partnership with Israel was already well defined and we give thanks to Harry Truman for the courageous steps he took when Israel was first established. And I applaud our continuing legacy of support of the Jewish state and the struggles and inventiveness and vitality of the jewish people. This legacy is one that I will not only honor in the tea partier ship between the United States and Israel. [Cheers and applause] When I was first introduced to Israel the core of the partnership with Israel was already very well defined for those courageous steps he took when Israel was first established. 17:39:57 [Applause] And I applaud our continuing legacy of support for the jewish state and the struggles, inventiveness and vitality of the jewish people. This legacy is one that I will not only honor in my administration but will take active steps to strengthen and expand. I want you all to know something very special to me, because it was at a ceremony recognizing the holocaust that as governor I proposed that we build a permanent memorial so that people and particularly our young people could understand the history and the lesson of man's inhumanity to man and the incredible suffering visited upon the Jews across the globe. I worked with such prominent Ohioans as the ratners, the (sp?) and many other members of the Jewish community over three years to make it happen.They told me it could not be done and I said you watch me, we will build a memorial. The memorial finally was designed by Daniel Libeskind (sp?) and it was the first of its find in the nation. And You all please come to Columbus and look at it, it is just beautiful. But I want to tell you that a very good friend of mine, Victor Goodman, a prominent member of the jewish community in Ohio, asked me to take him over to look at that memorial before it was unveiled. 17:41:26 We walked over behind the tarp. I had my arm around his shoulder and we read the inscription and the memorial together. And I will never forget when he finished reading it, he buried his head in my chest and wept. And we wept together. And he looked at me and he said, John, thank you for what you have done here. This will exist as long as the state of Ohio exists. As you may know, I served on the house armed services committee for 18 years, and I worked to implement Ronald Reagan's strategy to revitalize our military and to defeat the soviet union. Together my colleagues in congress and I gave our alliance with Israel meaning. We assured Israel's continuing qualitative military edge by authoring the initial $10 million for the arrow iron dome anti-missile program that we know is so critical to the security of Israel. 17:42:33 [ Applause ] We supported the Fanton 2000 program guaranteeing Israeli air superiority with the latest fighters and the transfer of reactive armor technology that has made the Israeli tanks so effective. I think it can be fairly said that my support and friendship for our strategic partner, Israel, has been firm and unwavering for more than 35 years of my professional life. [ Applause ] Israel is the only democracy in the Middle East, has turned into faithful and dependable friends. The American friends of Israel are not fair weather friends. They recognize the strategic hinge with Israel and that America's and Israel's interests are tightly intertwined, despite our inevitable disagreements from time to time. 17:43:28 We share a critically important common interest in the middle East, the unrelenting opposition to Iran's attempts to develop nuclear weapons. [ Applause ] In March of 2015, when the prime minister spoke out against the Iran nuclear deal before a joint session of congress, I flew to Washington and stood on the floor of the house of representatives that was in session, the first time I had visited since we had been in session in 15 years, and I did it to show my respect, my personal respect to the people of Israel. [ Applause ] 17:44:13 And I want you all to know that I have called for the suspension of the U.S.' participation in the Iran nuclear deal in reaction to Iran's recent ballistic missile tests. [ Cheers and applause ] These tests were both a violation of the spirit of the nuclear deal and provocations that can no longer be ignored. One of the missiles tested had printed on it in hebrew, can you believe this, Israel must be exterminated. And I will instantly gather the world and lead us to re-apply sanctions if Iran violates one crossed T or one dot of that nuclear deal. We must put the sanctions back on them as the world community, together. [ Applause ] 17:45:35 Let me also tell you no amount of money that's being made by any business will stand in the way of the need to make sure that the security of Israel is secured and that Iran does not have a nuclear weapon. No amount of money can push us in the wrong direction. And I want you to be assured that in a Kasich administration, there will be no more delusional agreements with self-declared enemies. No more. And as the candidate in this race with the deepest and most far-reaching foreign policy and national security experience, ladies and gentlemen, I don't need on-the-job training, I will not have to learn about the dangers facing this country and our allies, I have lived these matters for decades. One day -- and on day one in the oval office I will have in place a solid team of experienced and dedicated people who will implement a long-term strategic program to assure the security and safety of this country and that of its allies, such as Israel. I will lead and make decisions, and my national security appointees will work tirelessly with Israel to counter Iran's regional aggression and sponsorship of terror. 17:46:49 We will help to interdict weapons supplies to Hezbollah, we will defeat ISIS in syria and Iraq and we will assist Israel to interdict Iranian arm supplies and financial flows to hamas. Let me stress, I will also work to build and expand on Israel's newfound regional relations as a result of the flawed Iran nuclear deal, amazing. Israel and the Arab gulf states are now closer than ever. The bad news here is that the U.S. Is not part of this new web of relations. I will work to participate in, expand and strengthen those ties. [ Applause ] 17:47:37 Israelis live in one of the world's roughest neighborhoods and Iran is not the only threat that the U.S. And Israel both face there. ISIS, headquartered in Syria and Iraq, is a mortal peril. Of course, ladies and gentlemen, its spread must be stopped. Since it is dedicated to destruction in Israel, the Middle East, Europe, Africa, Asia and the United States, it is a threat to all civilization unless we recognize and unite around this central truth, we will remain committed to an ineffective and piecemeal approach to dealing with ISIS. Because the world recognizes the existential threat posed by ISIS, I believe I can lead a regional and nato coalition to defeat ISIS both from the air and on the ground in Syria and in Iraq. We're all in this together. I will also provide support and relief to our common ally, Jordan, that has shared the brunt of refugee flows, and I will bring our troops home as soon as we, together with our allies, have created a realistic prospect that regional powers can conclude a settlement guaranteeing long-term security there. 17:48:53 I will then support allied coalitions as they destroy ISIS' various regional affiliates. My administration will cooperate with our allies to deny Libya's oil as a resource, deny Libya as a platform to mount attacks against Europe and disband what has become a hub for acts of terror throughout Africa. I will support our common vital ally, Egypt, in its efforts to destroy the insurgency in sinai and terrorists infiltrating from Libya. And I will provide the Afghan national security forces with the key aircraft and support needed to defeat the Taliban, Al Qaeda and ISIS and then I will bring our troops in Afghanistan back home. [ Applause ] 17:49:40 Insurgent states such as Iran and network transnational actors such as ISIS are not the only threats that Israel, the jewish American community and America together face. Believe me, a Kasich administration will work from the beginning to block and eliminate any form of intolerance, bigotry, racism or anti-semitism whether domestic or international, particularly in international bodies. [ Applause ] I condemn all attempts to isolate pressure and delegitimize the state of Israel, and I will support congress' efforts to allow this activity both here and in the eu. And I am also very concerned about rising attacks on Israel and jewish students on our college campuses. I pledge to use -- [ applause ] 17:50:59 I pledge to use the full force of the white house to fight this scourge and I will make sure we have have the tools needed to protect students from hate speech, harassment and intimidation while supporting free speech on our college campuses. I've been horrified by the recent spate of Palestinian attacks of Israeli citizens. These are not spontaneous actions of lone wolves. They are part of an unprecedented wave of terror that is involved over 200 attacks on Israelis since October 2015. And they are the outcome of a culture of death that the Palestinian authority and its forbearers have promoted for over 50 years. [ Applause ] 17:51:58 Indoctrination of hate has long been part of a planned and well thought out strategy. Palestinian children are raised in a culture that glorifies martyrdom and the willingness to die in the pursuit of killing or maiming Israelis. Children textbooks have been filled with vile anti semitism, Families of suicide killers receive an annuity after they kill and maim, imprisoned terrorists receive stipends and are guaranteed jobs in the Palestinian civil service and a salary determined by the length of their sense. Public squares, and streets and soccer tournaments are named after terrorists. If they truly want peace with israel than Palestinians cannot continue to promote a culture of hatred and death. We must make it clear that we will not tolerate such behavior. [ Applause ] 17:53:00 And I do not believe there is any prospect for a permanent peace until the Palestinian authority and their friends in hamas and Hezbollah are prepared to take real steps to live in peace with Israel and recognize Israel's right to exist as a jewish state. This violence is unacceptable. In the meantime, we can best advance stability in the region by providing Israel our 100% support. We can make sure Israel has what it needs to defend itself with weapons, information technology, political solidarity and working quietly to facilitate Palestinian and Israeli efforts at reconciliation. This is what would be expected of a dependable ally. 17:53:54 Folks, let me conclude by talking about the greatest alliances or those with countries such as Israel where we share a community of values. The post-war international system that we and our allies build upon these common values, of course, is under challenge or attack. And that's why we have to recommit ourselves to those values. We must not shy away from proclaiming and celebrating them and why we must revitalize our alliances to defend and expand the international system, build upon those values. A system that's prevented global conflict and lifted over 2 billion people out of poverty in the last 70 years. In doing this, we cannot go it alone. We must hang together and be realistic about what we can achieve. We cannot be neutral in defending our allies either. We must be counted on to stand by and invest in our friends instead of abusing them and currying favor with our enemies. 17:54:50 For effective governance in our democracy and for the sake of the future, we have to work together at home, as well across party and ideological lines wherever and whenever possible. This is exactly what I've done in the course of my career in public service. I reached out to the other side countless times to see how we can sit together and achieve the progress that America wants and deserves. And we all look back to the time of Ronald Reagan and his meetings with tip o'neil where they came together to put America first, politics and partisanship second and Reagan, as he reached across the aisle to tip o'neill, very partisan, legendary, they managed to hammer out deals that gave Reagan victories in revitalizing our economy and implementing the military build-up that ended the cold war. But It took a conscious effort and an attitude of wanting to cooperate so this is what I want to do, Republicans and Democrats who are here today. We need to work together with congress on an agenda that serves the interest of the nation as a whole. 17:55:57 We are Americans before we are Republicans or Democrats. We are Americans. [ Applause ] And let me tell you in regard to that, I will not take the low road to the highest office in the land. I will not do it. [ Applause ] Yes, we will rededicate ourselves to reaching the bipartisan national security policy that president Reagan and the Democrats achieved. You can be assured that my strategic program will include and incorporate Israel as the bedrock partner for our mutual security in the Middle East. Together we will combat violence incited in Israel itself and of course its eternal capital Jerusalem. [ Applause ] 17:57:23 Thank you. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to be here today in front of so many of you who've contributed so much. I'm humbled by the chance to stand here at this incredible gathering of people who so much love America and so much love our great ally Israel. You see, we're connected together. It's about civilization. It's about peace. It's about love. It's about togetherness. 17:57:59 It's about healing the world. The great jewish tradition is everyone lives a life a little bigger than themselves. And that tradition has worked its way deep into my soul where I tell people all across America, dig down deep. The lord has made you special. Live a life bigger than yourself. Lift others. Heal, provide hope. Provide progress. And with that, the rest of this century and the relationship between the United States and Israel will grow stronger and stronger for the benefit and mutual security of the world. Thank you all very much, and God bless you. Dukakis/Kreutz More to come on HRC's speech at AIPAC from Ali, but she just had a big riff going directly after Trump. Although she didn't mention him by name, her message was clear: "We need steady hands, not a president who says he's neutral on Monday, pro-Israel on Tuesday and who knows what on Wednesday, because everything's negotiable," she said, referring to Trump's recent remark that he's "neutral" on Israel/Palestine. "Some things aren't negotiable," she added later, "And anyone who doesn't understand that has no business being our president." Snap stream log, not 100% accurate, h/t Alana- [10:13:16 AM] For the security of Israel and the world, we need America to remain a respected global leader committed to defending and advancing the international order, an America able to block efforts to isolate or attack Israel. The alternative is unthinkable. [ Applause ] . >> Yes, we need steady hands, not a president who says he's neutral on Monday, pro Israel on Tuesday, and who knows what on Wednesday because everything'snegotiable. [ Applause ] >> Well, my friends, Israel's security is nonnegotiable. [ Applause ] I have sat in Israeli hospital rooms holding the hands of men and women whose bodies and lives were torn apart by terrorist bombs. I've listened to doctors describe the shrapnel left in a leg, an arm, or even a head. That's why I feel to strongly that America can't ever be neutral when it comes to Israel's security or survival. We can't be neutral when rockets rain down on residential neighborhoods. [10:15:17 AM] When civilians are stabbed in the street, when decide bombers are target the innocent. Some things aren't negotiable, and anyone who doesn't understand that has no business being our president. -- Liz Kreutz | Digital Journalist | ABC News | 646-584-9604 | T: @ABCLiz **ABC UNI CUTS SHOT - TAPE C/B - inquire if you want slug!** Clinton's presumable swings at Trump began right off the bat of her speech to AIPAC Monday morning in Washington - but later in her remarks, she made hard, direct hits. "Americans and Israelis face currents of intolerance and extremism that threaten the moral foundations of our societies," Clinton explained towards the end of her speech. "Now, in a democracy we're going to have differences. But what Americans are hearing on the campaign trail this year is something else entirely, encouraging violence, playing coy with white supremacists, calling for 12 million immigrants to be rounded up and deported. Demanding we turn away refugees because of their religion and proposing a ban on all muslims entering the United States, " Clinton said, clearly referencing Trump policies and remarks. [10:28:53] She added, "Now, we've had dark chapters in our history before. We remember the nearly 1,000 Jews aboard the St. Louis who were refused entry in 1939 and sent back to Europe. "But America should be better than this, and I believe it's our responsibility as citizens to say so," Clinton explained. "If you see bigotry, oppose it. If you see violence, condemn it. If you see a bully, stand up to him," Clinton said to applause. [10:30] Other good lines: "As APEC members you understand that while the turmoil to the Middle East presents challenge and complexity, walking away is not an option. Candidates for president who think the United States can outsource Middle East security to dictators [10:02:04 AM] or that America no longer has vital national interests at stake in this region are dangerously wrong. " "It would be a serious mistake for the United States to abandon our responsibilities or seed the mantle of leadership for global peace and security to anyone else," she added to applause. Later discussing the Iran nuclear deal, Clinton said: "tonight you'll here other candidates about Iran, but there's a big difference about talking about holding Tehran accountable and actually doing it. Our next president has to be able to hold together our global coalition and impose real consequences for even the smallest violations of this agreement. [ Applause ] We must maintain the legal and diplomatic architecture to turn all the sanctions back on if needed." [10:18:47 AM] On Israel: "We marvel that such liberty exists in a region so plagued by intolerance..."We see the vigorous debate in Israeli politics and feel right at home. And, of course, some of us remember a woman leading Israel's government decades ago and wonder what's taking us so long here in America? [ Applause ] [10:29:00 AM] Ali Dukakis Digital Journalist ABC News | Washington, D.C. w: 202 222 6093 <tel:202%20222%206093> c: 202 489 9458 <tel:202%20489%209458> @ajdukakis Just circling back to report that Kasich just delivered his remarks at AIPAC, hitting on all the points below almost word-for-word as they were drafted earlier with no substantive deviations from the script. Strangely, though, he rushed through his line jabbing at Trump - "we cannot be neutral in defending our allies" - garnering little applause. According to Jess Hopper at the venue, Kasich received several standing ovations, including when he spoke about the Iran nuclear deal, how people should be Americans before they are Republicans or Democrats (which he says all the time) and how Palestinians must recognize Israel's right to exist. Also of note, he repeatedly mispronounced Soviet dissident-turned-Jewish Agency head Natan Sharansky's first name as "NAY-tahn" instead of "Na-TAHN," despite Kasich explaining that Sharansky was a significant part of his early connection to Israel. And for this speech, Kasich wore glasses and read from prepared remarks, two things he almost never does on the campaign trail. Ben Gittleson | ABC News c: +1 646-740-9341 o: +1 212-456-1616 Twitter: @bgittleson GOP front runner Donald Trump did something he's never done before in his race for the White House - he read a speech, and basically stuck to it. Trump promised the crowd "when I become President, the days of treating Israel like a second-class citizen will end on Day One. When I say something I mean it." He constantly in the speech told the crowd to "believe me" - a line he invokes often on the trail, but something he repeatedly often tonight. Trump hit President Obama several times, than finally hit Hillary Clinton. "You see, what President Obama gets wrong about deal making is that he constantly applies pressure to our friends and rewards our enemies. That pattern, practiced by the President and his administration, including former Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton, has repeated itself over and over and has done nothing but embolden those who hate America." He also said the UN "is not a friend of democracy. It's not a friend to freedom. It's not a friend even to the United States of America, where as all know, it has its home. And it surely isn't a friend to Israel." He received a large applause when he talked about moving the US Embassy to Jerusalem: 17:52 - We will move the American embassy to the eternal capital of the Jewish people, Jerusalem - and we will send a clear signal that there is no daylight between America and our most reliable ally, the state of Israel. 17-53-05 As he closed out his speech, he broke into his usual rhythm and from his prepared text "I love Israel.I've been with Israel so long.my daughter Ivanka is about to have a beautiful Jewish baby!" Classic Donald. -- John T. Santucci ABC News - Campaign 2016 C: 516-376-0312 T: @JTSantucci E: John.T.Santucci@abc.com <mailto:John.T.Santucci@abc.com> Of all the GOP candidates to address AIPAC today, Sen. Ted Cruz was the most direct in attacking his fiercest rival, Donald Trump. Cruz began throwing the jabs at the beginning of his speech. "Let me say at the outset, perhaps to the surprise of a previous speaker, Palestine has not existed since 1948," said Cruz to laughs and cheers. 19:02:59 Cruz also made the arena laugh when he joked about the fundraiser his former foe and now friend Sen. Lindsey Graham hosted today on behalf of Cruz. "Indeed, just today, my colleague Lindsay Graham very kindly hosted an event for me here, which should allay any doubts anyone might have that the god of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob can still do miracles," said Cruz. 19:05:50 Cruz previously said he planned to use his AIPAC speech to draw contrasts with Trump since Trump refused to debate him tonight in Salt Lake City. He did draw contrasts, but none of them were new. All except his initial jab about Palestine were lines Cruz uses routinely in his stump speech. Cruz hit Trump for saying he'd be neutral when it came to Israel and the Palestinians. "In a similar vein, my leading Republican opponent has promised that he as president would be neutral between Israel and the Palestinians. Let me be very, very clear, as president, I will not be neutral. [ Cheers and applause ] America will stand unapologetically with the nation of Israel," Cruz said. 19:13:30 He also criticized Trump for saying he'd renegotiate the Iran Nuclear Deal. "Both Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump have said they would maintain this Iranian deal, although Donald has promised, he's going to negotiate and get a better deal. Well, my view is very different. On the first day in office, I will rip this catastrophic Iranian nuclear deal to shreds," Cruz said. 19:14:30 Cruz appeared to be looking towards the general election at times by criticizing Hillary Clinton and imagining himself as the leader of a newly unified Republican party. "In the next few months, we will bring this country together, first by unifying the Republican party, and then by reaching out and building a coalition of young people and hispanics and African-Americans and women and blue collar workers and jewish voters and Reagan Democrats which will lead to a commanding victory in November that unifies this country and brings us together," Cruz said. 19:03:48 Cruz criticized Hillary Clinton for her 2014 remarks about Gaza. "Well, Madam Secretary, with all respect, the reason the missiles are in schools is not because Gaza is small. The reason the missiles are in schools is because Hamas are terrorist monsters using children as human shields," Cruz said. 19:10:08 Cruz also called on federal funds for anyone who provides financial support to the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement. I have not heard him say this before. "I will do everything in my power to ensure that anyone who provides financial support to the BDS movement, including schools and universities, will lose any access to federal funding," Cruz said. -- Jessica Hopper Digital Journalist ABC News Cell: 202-617-9230 Email: Jessica.M.Hopper@abc.com <mailto:Jessica.M.Hopper@abc.com> Highlighs of Paul Ryan's remarks to AIPAC tonight ALL QUOTES ROUGH//CHECK AGAINST LOG TAPE - SNAPSTREAM below - You've heard a lot...from speakers - you know, what it's not enough though , the speeches, the statements all in the world mean nothing if you do not back them up with actions. 18:03 House renewed support for iron dome when rockets shot at it two years ago When return first trip of speakership will be to Israel As long as I am speaker we will not allow any leg that divides two countries - 18:04 "American is safer when we stand with Israel. So if there's one thing I would ask you to take away from this night it's this: my colleauges and I will do everything we can to concrete our friendship.." "that's what I think most time.some people say "Middle East a mess// a liability // hamstrings America 6:05 "friendships between two countries is in not just our countries interest but both countries interest - interest of the world" 6:06 6:10 "so why is our relationship with Israel so important? Because our fight in Israel against terrorism is one and the same: Israel is first target and America is ultimate target. Because they have same vaules 6:11 "but it does help police protect here in our country fails to realize what allies need 617 you're going to make a huge decision in 2016, and in the house we're hoping to crystallize that.take words of Gen. Patteson (?) 'we need to take our own side in this fight' SNAPSTREAM LOG H/T MALKA - MUST BE CHECKED applause] All I have to say is wow. It is nice to see you here today. [Applause] I want to say that thank you so much for invitee me today end of to Washington D.C. I heard from a lot of folks today you have heard from a lot of folks today. [Laughter] It is always a good thing when America's leaders declare support for Israel. But that is not enough. The speeches, statements speeches, statements, allthe burden of world me nothing if you did not back them up with action. [6:03:23 PM] [Cheers and applause] That is why two years ago when the rockets -- rockets were falling on tel aviv the house approved emergency support for the iron dome. [Applause] And that is why we did just two months of me taking the speakership we voted to fund every penny of our assistance commitment. [Applause] And that is why in my trip overseas as speaker of the house my first trip will be to return to Israel. [Cheers and applause] And that is why I can pledge to you tonight as long as I am speaker of the house house, mobile will not allow any legislation that divides our countries to come to the house floor for any consideration. [Applause] It is action and deeds that build trust. And our friendship is too important to. The dangers we face are two real to let there be any misgivings between us.Like my house colleagues I and a stand that America is not safer when we back away from Israel. It is safer when we stand with Israel. [Applause] So if there is one thing I would ask you to take away from tonight to is this common my colleagues and I will do everything we can and to strengthen ourfriendship. [6:05:26 PM] Digest with words but concrete achievements. Note taking funds for granted her leaving the middle lurch it is a priority in American leaders should act like is. [Applause] That is my take most Americans believe fumble sides of the aisle. But I do hear people raising doubts every now and then to say things like the middleEast is a mess it is none of our business. Why are we taking sides? The say however appliance is some liability. They say that I hamstrings America and cuts against our interests and in my experience it does us no good to wave off our opponents to dismiss them as narrow minded or be high-minded about it. That is a bridge to divide that deepens the divide. Instead we need to confront our critics' arguments head on and have a real conversation and I would say that I firmly believe thatthe friendship between our two countries is not just in Israel's interest in America's interest. [Applause] It is good for Israel and good for America and good for the world. It is really just a lesson in history. For many years we avoided but Thomas Jefferson called the entangling alliances. The great powers that they wanted to use for their own purposes so we stayed out. [6:07:39 PM] That all changes with world War II. We learn the hard way even if you don't go looking for trouble and has a way of finding you. The date that Japan bombed pearl harbor we realize to oceans could no longer protect us anymore. Our interest reached across the world and so did the threat. We could not be in north America north Africa the to deliberate the islands of the south pacific. We had to work with other countries who share our objective is. And we had to lead a global alliance.And a new threat to either merged setting up public regimes all across evening missiles that the friends in western Europe soviets faced the choice either withdrawfrom a the world and ourselves to make ourselves into a garrison state or pursue a four word meaning defense with icky video free nations to keep open commerce these are the years that we create the imf in did 1948 we're the first country to recognize minutes after she declared Independence. [Cheers and applause] >> The first country. [6:09:47 PM] Both the cold war A&M of World War we are safer when we work with each other and stem by a each other and trust each other because then with the threat ariseswe are confronted together. Those threats are very different now. North Korea displays the nuclear weapons Iran backs terrorist groups says it will jockey for dominance in the Middle East. It even with the rise of ISIS it has taken hold. To face the aggressive ideology. New York is that relationship so important? Because of the fight against terrorism the interest is one in the same. In we are the ultimate target. [Applause] Is a liberal democracy with those countries become stronger. And just remember and to fight terrorism in our country. [Cheers and applause] >> Pretty profound. This is the crux of the matter. The current administration understand that we need our allies but it fails to understand what our allies need. [6:11:58 PM] [Applause] They need more than assurances that we have their back but they need to see with their own eyes the commitments I do say this to castigate or police blamed the to bring clarity to the situation we're facing. This is the most fundamental misunderstanding that has undermined our security. Exhibit a is the everyonedeal. [Applause] I think that was a terrible deal. [Cheers and applause] Not since then have we seen like this deal. End because of this deal our friends in the bellies are losing faith in us or at least in our judgment.I really got billions of dollars of sanctions and relief in exchange for what? Or just taking up some of the nuclear program? Indebted 10 or 15 years they all expire? In other words, , they get something for E essentially nothing. If it was a steel. [Applause] And headed is if they don't cheat. [Laughter] [6:14:00 PM] We all want the negotiations to a succeed but we were supposed to get something out of its. It is fine to negotiate with their enemies. It really is but not at all your friends expense that doesn't make any of the safer. [Applause] I don't think it is an accident that every few months we hear of Iran launching another ballistic missile is said and dismantling the program. We legitimize it. This is a huge threat to Israel into our country is. I am going to make something clear with the publisher support it optimistic or skeptical and I sense a fewskeptics in this room today but it is your right to question your government on any issue at any time. [Cheers and applause] That is applied to aipac does and why you were here. If anybody questions that right, of beastie and with few. [Applause] So we have to do everything we can to shore up our alliance. We have to hold their Rand accountable for its violations and push back against Iranian aggression. A and extend our bilateral security agreement and also include missile defense. [6:16:02 PM] And one more thing to the ways avd means we have to push back with clarity. With any attempts by any other country to boycott to ever sanctioned Israel. This is where your voice is and must be heard. This is what they're going to do to us. We can and must me clear on this. And did you know, what this does? It sends a signal is the will stand by through a thick and thin. We have a choice coming. You have people running for president. But here is what we see. You have a choice coming.We will make a big choice in 2016 and along those lines in the house we will try to help crystallize that choice. In to design a strategy and to strengthen allegiances inthe with the words of general James Madison and that we need to take our own side in this fight. [Applause] There is a cited to be taking. Then we will need the help of aipac and everyone here today. A and we need especially the help of the young people better here in this room. [6:18:12 PM] [Applause] Why? Because of the decisions that we make today to determine what type of world you can hear it just knowing you want to take part gives me hope for the future because of your help we can do this. I want to leave you with this. We need to build a confident America. That it does not shrink from commitments or allies. Into a cozy up to Iran a confidence America keeps its word. We stand by our allies and Israel that is of those countries need. I do I just threw a lot that you into thinking what does he care about is real? -- Israel but there is a vibrant jewish comedian Wisconsin. [Applause] Id everyone are die-hard Green Bay packer fans. [Laughter] This is something we're very proud of. Also give a tour of the Israel committee and all walks of life. When we visited different houses of worship one of the most questions is what the short position on Israel? [6:20:20 PM] It is it just some constituency but my friends and family and neighbors. The committee has done so much for Wisconsin you will always have my deepest gratitude. [Applause] So I just want to thank you for having me tonight and in advance for the work between Israel and America to make sure we get it right make sure you keep doing it. God bless. Ali Dukakis Digital Journalist ABC News | Washington, D.C. c: 202 489 9458 @ajdukakis

WASH 7 AIPAC AFTERNOON SESSION HEAD ON POOL C16 032116 WASH 8 AIPAC AFTERNOON SESSION SWITCH POOL C16 032116 TED CRUZ 19:02:59 >> God bless aipac. [ Cheers and applause ] I'm thrilled to be here with you today. And let me say at the outset, perhaps to the surprise of a previous speaker, palestine has not existed since 1948. [ Cheers and applause ] On Wednesday night of this week, in synagogues across the world, jewish people will read the magila, which tells the story of purim, the miraculous rescue. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:03:48 The miraculous rescue of the jewish people from the hands of a wicked persian king. When the evil doer Haman plots to kill the Jews, he describes them as a nation that is scattered and spread out. The town that (?) teaches that the jewish people at the time were divided amongst themselves, and that the lesson is that when the forces of good are divided, evil can prevail. But when we come together in unity together, we can defeat tyrants. Today we are reliving history. Facing a similar time of challenge for America, and for Israel. But today I give you a word of hope. In the next few months, we will bring this country together, first by unifying the Republican party, and then by reaching out and building a coalition of young people and hispanics and African-Americans and women and blue collar workers and jewish voters and Reagan Democrats. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:05:07 Which will lead to a commanding victory in November that unifies this country and brings us together. [ Applause ] And standing together, America will stand with Israel and defeat radical islamic terrorism. [ Cheers and applause ] I want to thank the delegates, the over 18,000 people here, the 4,000 young people, the leaders of the pro-Israel movement who are gathered here today. [ Applause ] You will play a critical leadership role in making this happen, and bringing us together. 19:05:50 Indeed, just today, my colleague Lindsay Graham very kindly hosted an event for me here, which should allay any doubts anyone might have that the god of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob can still do miracles. [ Laughter ] I want to begin by asking all of us to remember Taylor Force, a texan who hailed from Lubbock, an eagle scout, a west point graduate, an army veteran.On March 8th he was stabbed to death by a Palestinian terrorist in Israel. The terrorist didn't ask for his passport. Influenced by the relentless campaign of incitement that has fostered genocidal hatred toward Jews, all he cared about was injuring or killing as many civilians as possible. At least ten people were wounded by the time the terrorist was neutralized. The brutal murder of Taylor Force is yet another reminder that America and Israel are in the fight together against radical islamic terrorism. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:07:07 We need a president who will be a champion for America. And we need a president who will be a champion for Israel. [ Cheers and applause ] In my time in the senate, I have endeavored to do both. In the four years I've been serving in the senate, I've been privileged to travel three times to the state of Israel. I had the great privilege of seeing the (?) hospital in northern Israel where they have treated over 1,000 refugees from Syria, wounded in that horrible Syrian civil war, have done so free of charge, showing the heart and character of the people of Israel. 19:08:01 [ Cheers and applause ] When the nation of Iran named as their ambassador to the united nations, Hamid Abuddalabi (sp?), a known terrorist who participated in holding Americans hostage in the late 1970s, people in Washington said there was nothing we could do. Well, I was proud to introduce legislation barring Abuddalabi (sp?) from coming to America.That legislation passed the senate 100 to nothing. It passed the house 435 to nothing. And it was signed into law by president Obama. [ Cheers and applause ] [ Cheers and applause ] When Israel was facing relentless rocket attacks from hamas, and the prayers of all of us, and people across the world were with Israel, prime minister Netanyahu powerfully observed, we are using missile defense to protect our civilians. And they are using their civilians to protect their missiles. I entirely agree with prime minister Netanyahu, as hamas would place rockets in elementary schools. They placed their headquarters in the basement of a hospital. And I would note, that Hillary Clinton, in 2014, explained this as follows. Quote, "hamas puts its missiles, its rockets in civilian areas. Part of it is because gaza's pretty small. And it's densely populated." Well, madam secretary, with all respect, the reason the missiles are in schools is not because gaza is small. The reason the missiles are in schools is because hamas are terrorist monsters using children as human shields. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:10:08 And in response to this atrocity, I was proud to join with New York Democrat kirsten Gillibrand in authoring a resolution condemning hamas' use as human shields as a war crime, and that resolution passed both houses of congress unanimously. [ Cheers and applause ] In the midst of these rocket attacks, we saw the Obama administration cancel civilian airline flights into the nation of Israel. When that happened, I publicly asked the question, did this administration just launch an economic boycott on the nation of Israel. [ Cheers and applause ] The administration does not ban flights into Pakistan, does not ban flights into Yemen, does not ban flights into Afghanistan. Indeed, did not ban flights into much of Ukraine. And Ukraine had just seen a passenger airliner shot down by a Russian buk missile. So why exactly was a disproportionate sanction put on Israel, because one rocket fell harmlessly a mile away from magaria (sp?) airport, one of the safest airports in the world. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:11:25 And why was that time to coincide with John Kerry arriving in the Middle East with $47 million for gaza that would inevitably end up with hamas terrorists. [ Applause ] When I asked that question, within hours the state department was being asked, is this an economic boycott of Israel? The state department said, that question is ridiculous. We refuse to answer. So I responded, fine, I will place a hold on every nominee to the state department. [ Cheers and applause ] Shortly thereafter, former new York mayor Michael Bloomberg rode a civilian airliner from London to tel aviv demonstrating that it was safe to fly to Israel. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:12:18 And as a result of mayor Bloomberg's efforts and my efforts and that of millions of others, the heat and light and attention became too much on this administration, and within 36 hours, the administration lifted its ban on civilian air flights to Israel. [ Cheers and applause ] Looking forward, as president, I will lead very, very differently from the current administration. [ Cheers and applause ] Imagine just a few years ago, if I had come to an aipac conference and suggested that the prime minister of Israel was going to come to America, address a joint session of congress, and he would be boycotted by the president of the United States, the vice president of the United States, and every member of the cabinet. That would have been dismissed as crazy, fanciful. That could never happen. And sadly, that is exactly what did happen when prime minister Netanyahu came to address congress. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:13:30 In a similar vein, my leading Republican opponent has promised that he as president would be neutral between Israel and the Palestinians. Let me be very, very clear, as president, I will not be neutral. [ Cheers and applause ] America will stand unapologetically with the nation of Israel. [ Cheers and applause ] So what does that mean specifically? Let's start with today's persian king, the nation of Iran. Both Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump have said they would maintain this Iranian deal, although Donald has promised, he's going to negotiate and get a better deal. Well, my view is very different. On the first day in office, I will rip this catastrophic Iranian nuclear deal to shreds. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:14:48 This agreement gives over $100 billion to the ayatollah khomeini, the world's state sponsor of terrorism. That dwarfs the $3 billion in military aid that we give each year to the nation of Israel. That difference is not just unconscionable, it is fundamentally immoral. And if I am president, on the first day, we will reimpose sanctions on Iran. [ Cheers and applause ] In a mockery of this Iranian nuclear deal, Iran has continued with missile tests, including launching a missile with the words printed on it in both hebrew and farsi, Israel should be wiped from the Earth. Hear my words, ayatollah khomeini, if I am president, and Iran launches a missile test, we will shoot that missile down. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:15:55 And in January 2017, we will have a commander in chief who says, under no circumstances will Iran be allowed to acquire nuclear weapons, either you will shut down your nuclear program or we'll shut it down for you. [ Cheers and applause ] A year ago, when prime minister Netanyahu addressed congress, I was honored to join the great Ali wizel on a panel discussion in the senate about this disastrous Iranian deal. Not a single Democrat was willing to join Ali wezel. To sit alongside someone who witnessed firsthand the horrors of the holocaust. Who brings a moral weight and gravity second to none. It was both powerful and humbling. And I am convinced after this election, the American people will stand and say together, never again means never again. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:17:13 On my very first day in office, I will begin the process of moving the American embassy in Israel to Jerusalem, the once and eternal capital of Israel. [ Cheers and applause ] Now, I recognize for years a whole lot of presidential candidates, both Republicans and Democrats, have said that indeed I recognize some candidates have said that standing here today. Here's the difference. I will do it. [ Cheers and applause ] And as president, I will do everything in my power to ensure that anyone who provides financial support to the bds movement, including schools and universities, will lose any access to federal funding. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:18:22 And to the extent that they have engaged in illegal behavior, they will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. [ Cheers and applause ] All of us here understand that Israel is not the barrier to peace. It is the Palestinian authority, and a so-called unity government with hamas that celebrates the murder of women and children, and incites and even compensates the terrorist attacks. If the Palestinians try to push through a united nations resolution to unilaterally declare Palestinian statehood, America will veto that resolution. [ Cheers and applause ] Indeed, I tell you today, I will fly to New York to personally veto it myself. [ Cheers and applause ] Now, some have asked, why on Earth did a cuban-american texan become one of the leading defenders of Israel in the United States congress? Well, I would say there are several reasons. First of all, I understand that standing with Israel benefits America. [ Applause ] Israel is a liberal democracy that shares our values. Israel is a steadfast and loyal ally. 19:20:08 And our military aid to Israel is not charity. It is rather furthering the vital national security interests of the United States of America, whether it is missile defense, from iron dome to David sling, or whether it is intelligence and military cooperation, Israel provides an enormous benefit to keeping America safe and protecting us from radical islamic terrorists. [ Cheers and applause ] But on a very personal level, for me, much of my view of Israel is framed in my family story. 19:20:51 My father was born and raised in Cuba. As a kid, he fought in the Cuban revolution. He was imprisoned, he was tortured.My father fled Cuba in 1957. When he came to America, he had nothing. He had $100 sewn into his underwear. And he washed dishes, making 50 cents an hour. He paid his way through school, he went on to start a small business. When I was a kid, my dad used to say to me over and over again, when I faced oppression in Cuba,I had a place to flee to. 19:21:26 If we lose our freedom here, where do we go. And I will tell you, it is an incredible blessing to be the child of an immigrant who fled oppression and came to America seeking freedom. And there is one other nation on Earth like the United States of America that was created as an oasis, as a beacon of hope to people who had faced oppression, had faced horrible murder and persecution, the nation of Israel, like America, is a beacon of light unto the world. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:22:13 And all of us here understand, as Ronald Reagan did, that peace is achievable only through strength. This is what Israel understands, when you surrounded by neighbors who would drive you into the sea, somehow you don't have time for political correctness. [ Applause ] Weakness is provocative. Appeasement increases the chance of military conflict. Indeed, I believe this Iranian nuclear deal is Munich in 1938, and we risk once again catastrophic consequences to allowing a homicidal maniac to acquire tools to murder millions. [ Cheers and applause ] 19:23:06 The way to avoid conflict is to stand up to bullies. And it is worth remembering that this same nation, Iran, in 1981, released our hostages the day Ronald Reagan was sworn into office. [ Cheers and applause ] That is the difference a strong commander in chief can make, and together standing as one, we can and will. Do it again. Thank you. DONALD TRUMP 18:30:37 >> Good evening. Thank you very much. I speak to you today as a lifelong supporter and true friend of Israel. [ Cheers and applause ] I'm a newcomer to politics. But not to backing the jewish state. [ Applause ] In 2001, weeks after the attacks on New York City, and on Washington, and, frankly, the attacks on all of us, attacks that perpetrated, and they were perpetrated by the islamic fundamentalists, mayor Rudy Giuliani visited Israel to show solidarity with terror victims. 18:31:24 I sent my plane, because I backed the mission for Israel 100%. [ Cheers and applause ] In spring of 2004, at the height of the violence in the gaza strip, I was the grand marshal of the 40th salute to Israel parade, the largest single gathering in support of the jewish state. [ Applause ] It was a very dangerous time for Israel, and frankly, for anyone supporting Israel. Many people turned down this honor. I did not. I took the risk, and I'm glad I did. [ Cheers and applause ] But I didn't come here tonight to pander to you about Israel. That's what politicians do. All talk, no action, believe me. 18:32:30 [ Applause ] I came here to speak to you about where I stand on the future of American relations with our strategic ally, our unbreakable friendship, and our cultural brother. The only democracy in the middle East, the state of Israel. 18:32:57 [ Cheers and applause ] Thank you. My number one priority is to dismantle the disastrous deal with Iran. [ Cheers and applause ] Thank you. Thank you. I have been in business a long time. I know deal making. And let me tell you, this deal is catastrophic.For America, for Israel, and for the whole of the Middle East. [ Applause ] The problem here is fundamental. We've rewarded the world's leading state sponsor of terror with $150 billion, and we received absolutely nothing in return. [ Cheers and applause ] I've studied this issue in great detail. I would say actually greater by far than anybody else. Believe me. Oh, believe me. And it's a bad deal.The biggest concern with the deal is not necessarily that Iran is going to violate it, because already, you know, as you know, it has. The bigger problem is that they can keep the terms and still get the bomb by simply running out the clock. 18:34:34 And of course, they'll keep the billions and billions of dollars that we so stupidly and foolishly gave them. [ Applause ] The deal doesn't even require Iran to dismantle its military nuclear capability. Yes, it places limits on its military nuclear program, for only a certain number of years, but when those restrictions expire, Iran will have an industrial size military nuclear capability ready to go, and with zero provision for delay, no matter how bad Iran's behavior is. Terrible, terrible situation that we are all placed in, and especially Israel. [6:35:41 PM] 18:35:28 When I'm president, I will adopt a strategy that focuses on three things when it comes to Iran. First, we will stand up to Iran's aggressive push to destabilize and dominate the region. [ Applause ] Iran is a very big problem, and will continue to be. But if I'm not elected president, I know how to deal with trouble. And believe me, that's why I'm going to be elected president, folks. 18:36l07 And we are leading in every poll, remember that, please. Iran is a problem in Iraq, a problem in Syria, a problem in Lebanon, a problem in Yemen, and will be a very, very major problem for Saudi Arabia. Literally, every day Iran provides more and better weapons to support their puppet states. Hezbollah, Lebanon received, and I'll tell you what, it has received sophisticated anti-ship weapons, anti-aircraft weapons, and gps systems and rockets like very few people anywhere in the world, and certainly very few countries have. Now they're in Syria trying to establish another front against Israel from the Syrian side of the Golan heights. 18:37:00 In gaza, Iran is supporting hamas, and islamic jihad. And in the west bank, they're openly offering Palestinians $7,000 per terror attack, and $30,000 for every Palestinian terrorist home that's been destroyed. A deplorable, deplorable situation Iran is financing military forces throughout the middle East, and it's absolutely incredible that we handed them over $150 billion to do even more toward the many horrible acts of terror. 18:37:50 [ Applause ] Secondly, we will totally dismantle Iran's global terror network, which is big and powerful, but not powerful like us. [ Cheers and applause ] Iran has seeded terror groups all over the world. During the last five years, Iran has perpetuated terror attacks in 25 different countries on five continents. They've got terror cells everywhere, including in the western hemisphere very close to home. Iran is the biggest sponsor of terrorism around the world, and we will work to dismantle that reach, believe me. Believe me. 18:38:42 Third, at the very least, we must enforce the terms of the previous deal to hold Iran totally accountable, and we will enforce it like you've never seen a contracted enforced before, folks. Believe me. 18:39:02 Iran has already, since the deal is in place, test-fired ballistic missiles three times. Those ballistic missiles with a range of 1,250 miles were designed to intimidate, not only Israel, which is only 600 miles away, but also intended to frighten Europe and some day maybe hit even the united States. And we're not going to let that happen. We're not letting it happen. And we're not letting it happen to Israel, believe me. [ Cheers and applause ] Thank you. Thank you. 18:39:49 Do you want to hear something really shocking? As many of the great people in this room know, painted on those missiles in both hebrew and farsi Were the words Israel must be wiped off the face of the Earth. You can forget that. [ Cheers and applause ] 18:40:10 What kind of demented minds write that in hebrew. And here's another, you talk about twisted? Here's another twisted part. Testing these missiles does not even violate the horrible deal that we've made. The deal is silent on test missiles. But those tests do violate the United Nations security council resolutions. The problem is, no one has done anything about it. We will. We will, I promise, we will. [ Cheers and applause ] 18:40:51 Thank you. Which brings me to my next point. The utter weakness and incompetence of the United Nations -- [ cheers and applause ] The United Nations is not a friend of democracy. It's not a friend to freedom. It's not a friend even to the United States of America, where as you know, it has its home. And it surely is not a friend to Israel. [ Cheers and applause ] With president Obama and his final year -- yea! [ Cheers and applause ] 18:42:11 He may be the worst thing to ever happen to Israel, believe me. Believe me. And you know it. And you know it better than anybody. So with the president in his final year, discussions have been swirling about an attempt to bring a security council resolution on terms of an eventual agreement between Israel and Palestine. Let me be clear. An agreement imposed by the United Nations would be a total and complete disaster. [ Cheers and applause ] The United States must oppose this resolution, and use the power of our veto which I will use as president 100%. [ Cheers and applause ] When people ask why, it's because that's not how you make a deal. Deals are made when parties come together. They come to a table and they negotiate. Each side must give up something. It's values -- I mean, we have to do something where there's value in exchange for something that it requires. That's what a deal is. 18:43:34 A deal is really something that when we impose it on Israel and Palestine, we bring together a group of people that come up with something that's not going to happen with the United nations. It will only further, very importantly, it will only further delegitimize Israel. It will be a catastrophe and a disaster for Israel. It's not going to happen, folks. [ Cheers and applause ] And further, it would reward Palestinian terrorism, because every day they're stabbing Israelis, and even Americans. Just last week, American tailor Allen Force, a west point grad, phenomenal young person who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, was murdered in the street by a knife-wielding Palestinian. You don't reward behavior like that. You cannot do it. [ Cheers and applause ] 18:44:42 There's only one way you treat that kind of behavior. You have to confront it. [ Applause ] So it's not up to the united nations to really go with a solution, it's really the parties that must negotiate a resolution themselves. They have no choice.They have to do it themselves, or it will never hold up anyway. The United States can be useful as a facilitator of negotiations, but no one should be telling Israel that it must be -- and really, that it must abide by some agreement made by others thousands of miles away, that don't even really know what's happening to Israel, to anything in the area. It's so preposterous. We're not going to let that happen. [ Cheers and applause ] 18:45:45 When I'm president, believe me, I will veto any attempt by the U.N. To impose its will on the jewish state. It will be vetoed 100%. [ Cheers and applause ] You see, I know about deal making. That's what I do. I wrote the art of the deal. One of the best-selling all-time, and I mean seriously, I'm saying one of, because I'll be criticized when I say "The" so I'll be very diplomatic. I'll be criticized. I think it is number one, but why take a chance. [ Laughter ] One of the all-time best-selling books about deals and deal-making, to make a great deal, you need two willing participants. We know Israel is willing to deal. Israel has been trying -- 18:46:47 >> That's right. Israel has been trying to sit down at the negotiating table without preconditions for years. You had camp David in 2000, where prime minister Barak made an incredible offer, maybe even too generous. Arafat rejected it. In 2008, prime minister Omer made an equally generous offer. The Palestinian authority rejected it also. Then John Kerry tried to come up with a framework, and Abbas didn't even respond. Not even to the secretary of state of the United States of America. They didn't even respond. When I become president, the days of treating Israel like a second-class citizen will end, on day one. [ Cheers and applause ] 18:47:6 And when I say something, I mean it. I mean it. I will meet with prime minister Netanyahu immediately. I have known him for many years. And we'll be able to work closely together to help bring stability and peace to Israel, and to the entire region. Meanwhile, every single day you have rampant incitement and children being taught to hate Israel, and to hate the Jews, it has to stop. [ Applause ] When you live in a society where the firefighters are the heroes, little kids want to be firefighters. When you live in a society where athletes and movie stars are heroes, little kids want to be athletes and movie stars. In Palestinian society, the heroes are those who murder Jews. We can't let this continue. We can't let this happen any longer. [ Applause ] [ Cheers and applause ] 18:49:08 You cannot achieve peace if terrorists are treated as martyrs. Glorifying terrorists is a tremendous barrier to peace. It is a horrible, horrible way to think. It's a barrier that can't be broken. That will end, and it will end soon, believe me. [ Cheers and applause ] In Palestinian textbooks and mosques, you've got a culture of hatred that has been fermenting there for years. And if we want to achieve peace, they've got to go out, and they've got to start this educational process. They have to end education of hatred. They have to end it, and now. [ Cheers and applause ] 18:50:03 There is no moral equivalency. Israel does not name public squares after terrorists. Israel does not pay its children to stab random Palestinians. You see, what president Obama gets wrong about deal making is that he constantly applies pressure to our friends, and rewards our enemies. [ Cheers and applause ] And you see that happening all the time. That pattern practiced by the president and his administration, including former secretary of state Hillary Clinton, who is a total disaster, by the way. [ Laughter ] [ Cheers and applause ] She and president Obama have treated Israel very, very badly. [ Cheers and applause ] 18:51:10 But it's repeated itself over and over again, and has done nothing to embolden those who hate America. We saw that with releasing the $150 billion to Iran, in the hope that they would magically join the world community. It didn't happen. [ Applause ] President Obama thinks that applying pressure to Israel will force the issue, but it's precisely the opposite that happens. Already half of the population of Palestine has been taken over by the Palestinian ISIS and Hamas, and the other half refuses to confront the first half, so it's a very difficult situation that's never going to get solved unless you have great leadership right here in the United States. 18:52:02 We'll get it solved, one way or the other. We will get it solved. [ Cheers and applause ] But when the United States stands with Israel, the chances of peace really rise. And rises exponentially. That's what will happen when Donald Trump is president of the United States. [ Cheers and applause ] We will move the American embassy to the eternal capital of the jewish people, Jerusalem. [ Cheers and applause ] 18:52:56 And we will send a clear signal that there is no daylight between America and our most reliable ally, the state of Israel. [ Cheers and applause ] The Palestinians must come to the table, knowing that the bond between the United States and Israel is absolutely totally unbreakable. [ applause ] They must come to the table willing and able to stop the terror, being committed on a daily basis against Israel. They must do that. [ Applause ] And they must come to the table willing to accept that Israel is a jewish state, and it will forever exist as a jewish state. 18:54:03 I love the people in this room. I love Israel. I love Israel. I've been with Israel so long in terms of -- I've received some of my greatest honors from Israel. My father before me, incredible. My daughter, ivanka, is about to have a beautiful jewish baby. [ Cheers and applause ] In fact, it could be happening right now, which would be very nice as far as I'm concerned. So I want to thank you very much. This has been a truly great honor. Thank you, everybody. Thank you. Thank you very much. JOHN KASICH 17:36:00 >> Thank you very much I am delighted to be back at aipac the organization I have worked with sincerely '80s. Back then your audience was in the hundreds , the testament to AIPAC is that those crowds are now in the thousands as we can see today. You know I first visited Israel in 1983 with my late dear friend Gordon Zacks. As you all know Gordon was a founding member of the aipac and it was on that trip that I actually visited Bethlehem and I called my mother on Christmas night from Jerusalem. As you can imagine it was a very very special moment and Gordon always reminded me of it. Gordon helped me as much as anyone has over the years to know and to appreciate the importance of our relationship with Israel and Israel's unique security challenges. 17:36:55 And I can think of of better guy who could have taken me to Israel. It was on my trip in 1983 that Gordon introduce me to Avital Sharansky when he husband (naton?) was still in soviet prison. She told me her husband's story over lunch at the King David Hotel in Jerusalem and said she was going to Washington to plead for his release. I asked her would you mind if I organized a rally in support of your husband on the steps of the capital. And so we came together in a bipartisan way to call for (Naton?) Shiranksys release. [Cheers and applause] 17:37:39 You know Gordy had taken Sharansky into the oval office to meet with President Reagan and when the meeting ended Mrs. Sharansky was told by the president I will not rest until your husband is free. Sharansky's story has always inspired me from the day that Gordy introduced me to Avital but I don't know how many of you here have read his book fear no evil. Natan wrote in that book as I related to him and he said I'm glad that you (?). But when they went to him in the prison they wanted him to confess something and they said you understand that galileo even confessed. And think about him sitting in that prison in solitary confinement and he thought to himself and told them, you are using galileo against me, no one will ever use me against any other prisoner of conscious. For that he deserves to always be remembered 17:38:52 I had a phone conversation with Natan for years but never had the chains to meet him and ironically I met him at the cemetery when we laid Gordy Zachs to rest where Natan gave the eulogy on behalf of our great friend. I'll want to make it clear to all of you thta I remain unwavering in my support for the jewish state and the unique partnership between the US and Israel. 17:39:42 When I was first introduced to Israel and some of it's leaders of course the core of our partnership with Israel was already well defined and we give thanks to Harry Truman for the courageous steps he took when Israel was first established. And I applaud our continuing legacy of support of the Jewish state and the struggles and inventiveness and vitality of the jewish people. This legacy is one that I will not only honor in the tea partier ship between the United States and Israel. [Cheers and applause] When I was first introduced to Israel the core of the partnership with Israel was already very well defined for those courageous steps he took when Israel was first established. 17:39:57 [Applause] And I applaud our continuing legacy of support for the jewish state and the struggles, inventiveness and vitality of the jewish people. This legacy is one that I will not only honor in my administration but will take active steps to strengthen and expand. I want you all to know something very special to me, because it was at a ceremony recognizing the holocaust that as governor I proposed that we build a permanent memorial so that people and particularly our young people could understand the history and the lesson of man's inhumanity to man and the incredible suffering visited upon the Jews across the globe. I worked with such prominent Ohioans as the ratners, the (sp?) and many other members of the Jewish community over three years to make it happen.They told me it could not be done and I said you watch me, we will build a memorial. The memorial finally was designed by Daniel Libeskind (sp?) and it was the first of its find in the nation. And You all please come to Columbus and look at it, it is just beautiful. But I want to tell you that a very good friend of mine, Victor Goodman, a prominent member of the jewish community in Ohio, asked me to take him over to look at that memorial before it was unveiled. 17:41:26 We walked over behind the tarp. I had my arm around his shoulder and we read the inscription and the memorial together. And I will never forget when he finished reading it, he buried his head in my chest and wept. And we wept together. And he looked at me and he said, John, thank you for what you have done here. This will exist as long as the state of Ohio exists. As you may know, I served on the house armed services committee for 18 years, and I worked to implement Ronald Reagan's strategy to revitalize our military and to defeat the soviet union. Together my colleagues in congress and I gave our alliance with Israel meaning. We assured Israel's continuing qualitative military edge by authoring the initial $10 million for the arrow iron dome anti-missile program that we know is so critical to the security of Israel. 17:42:33 [ Applause ] We supported the Fanton 2000 program guaranteeing Israeli air superiority with the latest fighters and the transfer of reactive armor technology that has made the Israeli tanks so effective. I think it can be fairly said that my support and friendship for our strategic partner, Israel, has been firm and unwavering for more than 35 years of my professional life. [ Applause ] Israel is the only democracy in the Middle East, has turned into faithful and dependable friends. The American friends of Israel are not fair weather friends. They recognize the strategic hinge with Israel and that America's and Israel's interests are tightly intertwined, despite our inevitable disagreements from time to time. 17:43:28 We share a critically important common interest in the middle East, the unrelenting opposition to Iran's attempts to develop nuclear weapons. [ Applause ] In March of 2015, when the prime minister spoke out against the Iran nuclear deal before a joint session of congress, I flew to Washington and stood on the floor of the house of representatives that was in session, the first time I had visited since we had been in session in 15 years, and I did it to show my respect, my personal respect to the people of Israel. [ Applause ] 17:44:13 And I want you all to know that I have called for the suspension of the U.S.' participation in the Iran nuclear deal in reaction to Iran's recent ballistic missile tests. [ Cheers and applause ] These tests were both a violation of the spirit of the nuclear deal and provocations that can no longer be ignored. One of the missiles tested had printed on it in hebrew, can you believe this, Israel must be exterminated. And I will instantly gather the world and lead us to re-apply sanctions if Iran violates one crossed T or one dot of that nuclear deal. We must put the sanctions back on them as the world community, together. [ Applause ] 17:45:35 Let me also tell you no amount of money that's being made by any business will stand in the way of the need to make sure that the security of Israel is secured and that Iran does not have a nuclear weapon. No amount of money can push us in the wrong direction. And I want you to be assured that in a Kasich administration, there will be no more delusional agreements with self-declared enemies. No more. And as the candidate in this race with the deepest and most far-reaching foreign policy and national security experience, ladies and gentlemen, I don't need on-the-job training, I will not have to learn about the dangers facing this country and our allies, I have lived these matters for decades. One day -- and on day one in the oval office I will have in place a solid team of experienced and dedicated people who will implement a long-term strategic program to assure the security and safety of this country and that of its allies, such as Israel. I will lead and make decisions, and my national security appointees will work tirelessly with Israel to counter Iran's regional aggression and sponsorship of terror. 17:46:49 We will help to interdict weapons supplies to Hezbollah, we will defeat ISIS in syria and Iraq and we will assist Israel to interdict Iranian arm supplies and financial flows to hamas. Let me stress, I will also work to build and expand on Israel's newfound regional relations as a result of the flawed Iran nuclear deal, amazing. Israel and the Arab gulf states are now closer than ever. The bad news here is that the U.S. Is not part of this new web of relations. I will work to participate in, expand and strengthen those ties. [ Applause ] 17:47:37 Israelis live in one of the world's roughest neighborhoods and Iran is not the only threat that the U.S. And Israel both face there. ISIS, headquartered in Syria and Iraq, is a mortal peril. Of course, ladies and gentlemen, its spread must be stopped. Since it is dedicated to destruction in Israel, the Middle East, Europe, Africa, Asia and the United States, it is a threat to all civilization unless we recognize and unite around this central truth, we will remain committed to an ineffective and piecemeal approach to dealing with ISIS. Because the world recognizes the existential threat posed by ISIS, I believe I can lead a regional and nato coalition to defeat ISIS both from the air and on the ground in Syria and in Iraq. We're all in this together. I will also provide support and relief to our common ally, Jordan, that has shared the brunt of refugee flows, and I will bring our troops home as soon as we, together with our allies, have created a realistic prospect that regional powers can conclude a settlement guaranteeing long-term security there. 17:48:53 I will then support allied coalitions as they destroy ISIS' various regional affiliates. My administration will cooperate with our allies to deny Libya's oil as a resource, deny Libya as a platform to mount attacks against Europe and disband what has become a hub for acts of terror throughout Africa. I will support our common vital ally, Egypt, in its efforts to destroy the insurgency in sinai and terrorists infiltrating from Libya. And I will provide the Afghan national security forces with the key aircraft and support needed to defeat the Taliban, Al Qaeda and ISIS and then I will bring our troops in Afghanistan back home. [ Applause ] 17:49:40 Insurgent states such as Iran and network transnational actors such as ISIS are not the only threats that Israel, the jewish American community and America together face. Believe me, a Kasich administration will work from the beginning to block and eliminate any form of intolerance, bigotry, racism or anti-semitism whether domestic or international, particularly in international bodies. [ Applause ] I condemn all attempts to isolate pressure and delegitimize the state of Israel, and I will support congress' efforts to allow this activity both here and in the eu. And I am also very concerned about rising attacks on Israel and jewish students on our college campuses. I pledge to use -- [ applause ] 17:50:59 I pledge to use the full force of the white house to fight this scourge and I will make sure we have have the tools needed to protect students from hate speech, harassment and intimidation while supporting free speech on our college campuses. I've been horrified by the recent spate of Palestinian attacks of Israeli citizens. These are not spontaneous actions of lone wolves. They are part of an unprecedented wave of terror that is involved over 200 attacks on Israelis since October 2015. And they are the outcome of a culture of death that the Palestinian authority and its forbearers have promoted for over 50 years. [ Applause ] 17:51:58 Indoctrination of hate has long been part of a planned and well thought out strategy. Palestinian children are raised in a culture that glorifies martyrdom and the willingness to die in the pursuit of killing or maiming Israelis. Children textbooks have been filled with vile anti semitism, Families of suicide killers receive an annuity after they kill and maim, imprisoned terrorists receive stipends and are guaranteed jobs in the Palestinian civil service and a salary determined by the length of their sense. Public squares, and streets and soccer tournaments are named after terrorists. If they truly want peace with israel than Palestinians cannot continue to promote a culture of hatred and death. We must make it clear that we will not tolerate such behavior. [ Applause ] 17:53:00 And I do not believe there is any prospect for a permanent peace until the Palestinian authority and their friends in hamas and Hezbollah are prepared to take real steps to live in peace with Israel and recognize Israel's right to exist as a jewish state. This violence is unacceptable. In the meantime, we can best advance stability in the region by providing Israel our 100% support. We can make sure Israel has what it needs to defend itself with weapons, information technology, political solidarity and working quietly to facilitate Palestinian and Israeli efforts at reconciliation. This is what would be expected of a dependable ally. 17:53:54 Folks, let me conclude by talking about the greatest alliances or those with countries such as Israel where we share a community of values. The post-war international system that we and our allies build upon these common values, of course, is under challenge or attack. And that's why we have to recommit ourselves to those values. We must not shy away from proclaiming and celebrating them and why we must revitalize our alliances to defend and expand the international system, build upon those values. A system that's prevented global conflict and lifted over 2 billion people out of poverty in the last 70 years. In doing this, we cannot go it alone. We must hang together and be realistic about what we can achieve. We cannot be neutral in defending our allies either. We must be counted on to stand by and invest in our friends instead of abusing them and currying favor with our enemies. 17:54:50 For effective governance in our democracy and for the sake of the future, we have to work together at home, as well across party and ideological lines wherever and whenever possible. This is exactly what I've done in the course of my career in public service. I reached out to the other side countless times to see how we can sit together and achieve the progress that America wants and deserves. And we all look back to the time of Ronald Reagan and his meetings with tip o'neil where they came together to put America first, politics and partisanship second and Reagan, as he reached across the aisle to tip o'neill, very partisan, legendary, they managed to hammer out deals that gave Reagan victories in revitalizing our economy and implementing the military build-up that ended the cold war. But It took a conscious effort and an attitude of wanting to cooperate so this is what I want to do, Republicans and Democrats who are here today. We need to work together with congress on an agenda that serves the interest of the nation as a whole. 17:55:57 We are Americans before we are Republicans or Democrats. We are Americans. [ Applause ] And let me tell you in regard to that, I will not take the low road to the highest office in the land. I will not do it. [ Applause ] Yes, we will rededicate ourselves to reaching the bipartisan national security policy that president Reagan and the Democrats achieved. You can be assured that my strategic program will include and incorporate Israel as the bedrock partner for our mutual security in the Middle East. Together we will combat violence incited in Israel itself and of course its eternal capital Jerusalem. [ Applause ] 17:57:23 Thank you. Thank you for giving me the opportunity to be here today in front of so many of you who've contributed so much. I'm humbled by the chance to stand here at this incredible gathering of people who so much love America and so much love our great ally Israel. You see, we're connected together. It's about civilization. It's about peace. It's about love. It's about togetherness. 17:57:59 It's about healing the world. The great jewish tradition is everyone lives a life a little bigger than themselves. And that tradition has worked its way deep into my soul where I tell people all across America, dig down deep. The lord has made you special. Live a life bigger than yourself. Lift others. Heal, provide hope. Provide progress. And with that, the rest of this century and the relationship between the United States and Israel will grow stronger and stronger for the benefit and mutual security of the world. Thank you all very much, and God bless you. Dukakis/Kreutz More to come on HRC's speech at AIPAC from Ali, but she just had a big riff going directly after Trump. Although she didn't mention him by name, her message was clear: "We need steady hands, not a president who says he's neutral on Monday, pro-Israel on Tuesday and who knows what on Wednesday, because everything's negotiable," she said, referring to Trump's recent remark that he's "neutral" on Israel/Palestine. "Some things aren't negotiable," she added later, "And anyone who doesn't understand that has no business being our president." Snap stream log, not 100% accurate, h/t Alana- [10:13:16 AM] For the security of Israel and the world, we need America to remain a respected global leader committed to defending and advancing the international order, an America able to block efforts to isolate or attack Israel. The alternative is unthinkable. [ Applause ] . >> Yes, we need steady hands, not a president who says he's neutral on Monday, pro Israel on Tuesday, and who knows what on Wednesday because everything'snegotiable. [ Applause ] >> Well, my friends, Israel's security is nonnegotiable. [ Applause ] I have sat in Israeli hospital rooms holding the hands of men and women whose bodies and lives were torn apart by terrorist bombs. I've listened to doctors describe the shrapnel left in a leg, an arm, or even a head. That's why I feel to strongly that America can't ever be neutral when it comes to Israel's security or survival. We can't be neutral when rockets rain down on residential neighborhoods. [10:15:17 AM] When civilians are stabbed in the street, when decide bombers are target the innocent. Some things aren't negotiable, and anyone who doesn't understand that has no business being our president. -- Liz Kreutz | Digital Journalist | ABC News | 646-584-9604 | T: @ABCLiz **ABC UNI CUTS SHOT - TAPE C/B - inquire if you want slug!** Clinton's presumable swings at Trump began right off the bat of her speech to AIPAC Monday morning in Washington - but later in her remarks, she made hard, direct hits. "Americans and Israelis face currents of intolerance and extremism that threaten the moral foundations of our societies," Clinton explained towards the end of her speech. "Now, in a democracy we're going to have differences. But what Americans are hearing on the campaign trail this year is something else entirely, encouraging violence, playing coy with white supremacists, calling for 12 million immigrants to be rounded up and deported. Demanding we turn away refugees because of their religion and proposing a ban on all muslims entering the United States, " Clinton said, clearly referencing Trump policies and remarks. [10:28:53] She added, "Now, we've had dark chapters in our history before. We remember the nearly 1,000 Jews aboard the St. Louis who were refused entry in 1939 and sent back to Europe. "But America should be better than this, and I believe it's our responsibility as citizens to say so," Clinton explained. "If you see bigotry, oppose it. If you see violence, condemn it. If you see a bully, stand up to him," Clinton said to applause. [10:30] Other good lines: "As APEC members you understand that while the turmoil to the Middle East presents challenge and complexity, walking away is not an option. Candidates for president who think the United States can outsource Middle East security to dictators [10:02:04 AM] or that America no longer has vital national interests at stake in this region are dangerously wrong. " "It would be a serious mistake for the United States to abandon our responsibilities or seed the mantle of leadership for global peace and security to anyone else," she added to applause. Later discussing the Iran nuclear deal, Clinton said: "tonight you'll here other candidates about Iran, but there's a big difference about talking about holding Tehran accountable and actually doing it. Our next president has to be able to hold together our global coalition and impose real consequences for even the smallest violations of this agreement. [ Applause ] We must maintain the legal and diplomatic architecture to turn all the sanctions back on if needed." [10:18:47 AM] On Israel: "We marvel that such liberty exists in a region so plagued by intolerance..."We see the vigorous debate in Israeli politics and feel right at home. And, of course, some of us remember a woman leading Israel's government decades ago and wonder what's taking us so long here in America? [ Applause ] [10:29:00 AM] Ali Dukakis Digital Journalist ABC News | Washington, D.C. w: 202 222 6093 <tel:202%20222%206093> c: 202 489 9458 <tel:202%20489%209458> @ajdukakis Just circling back to report that Kasich just delivered his remarks at AIPAC, hitting on all the points below almost word-for-word as they were drafted earlier with no substantive deviations from the script. Strangely, though, he rushed through his line jabbing at Trump - "we cannot be neutral in defending our allies" - garnering little applause. According to Jess Hopper at the venue, Kasich received several standing ovations, including when he spoke about the Iran nuclear deal, how people should be Americans before they are Republicans or Democrats (which he says all the time) and how Palestinians must recognize Israel's right to exist. Also of note, he repeatedly mispronounced Soviet dissident-turned-Jewish Agency head Natan Sharansky's first name as "NAY-tahn" instead of "Na-TAHN," despite Kasich explaining that Sharansky was a significant part of his early connection to Israel. And for this speech, Kasich wore glasses and read from prepared remarks, two things he almost never does on the campaign trail. Ben Gittleson | ABC News c: +1 646-740-9341 o: +1 212-456-1616 Twitter: @bgittleson GOP front runner Donald Trump did something he's never done before in his race for the White House - he read a speech, and basically stuck to it. Trump promised the crowd "when I become President, the days of treating Israel like a second-class citizen will end on Day One. When I say something I mean it." He constantly in the speech told the crowd to "believe me" - a line he invokes often on the trail, but something he repeatedly often tonight. Trump hit President Obama several times, than finally hit Hillary Clinton. "You see, what President Obama gets wrong about deal making is that he constantly applies pressure to our friends and rewards our enemies. That pattern, practiced by the President and his administration, including former Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton, has repeated itself over and over and has done nothing but embolden those who hate America." He also said the UN "is not a friend of democracy. It's not a friend to freedom. It's not a friend even to the United States of America, where as all know, it has its home. And it surely isn't a friend to Israel." He received a large applause when he talked about moving the US Embassy to Jerusalem: 17:52 - We will move the American embassy to the eternal capital of the Jewish people, Jerusalem - and we will send a clear signal that there is no daylight between America and our most reliable ally, the state of Israel. 17-53-05 As he closed out his speech, he broke into his usual rhythm and from his prepared text "I love Israel.I've been with Israel so long.my daughter Ivanka is about to have a beautiful Jewish baby!" Classic Donald. -- John T. Santucci ABC News - Campaign 2016 C: 516-376-0312 T: @JTSantucci E: John.T.Santucci@abc.com <mailto:John.T.Santucci@abc.com> Of all the GOP candidates to address AIPAC today, Sen. Ted Cruz was the most direct in attacking his fiercest rival, Donald Trump. Cruz began throwing the jabs at the beginning of his speech. "Let me say at the outset, perhaps to the surprise of a previous speaker, Palestine has not existed since 1948," said Cruz to laughs and cheers. 19:02:59 Cruz also made the arena laugh when he joked about the fundraiser his former foe and now friend Sen. Lindsey Graham hosted today on behalf of Cruz. "Indeed, just today, my colleague Lindsay Graham very kindly hosted an event for me here, which should allay any doubts anyone might have that the god of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob can still do miracles," said Cruz. 19:05:50 Cruz previously said he planned to use his AIPAC speech to draw contrasts with Trump since Trump refused to debate him tonight in Salt Lake City. He did draw contrasts, but none of them were new. All except his initial jab about Palestine were lines Cruz uses routinely in his stump speech. Cruz hit Trump for saying he'd be neutral when it came to Israel and the Palestinians. "In a similar vein, my leading Republican opponent has promised that he as president would be neutral between Israel and the Palestinians. Let me be very, very clear, as president, I will not be neutral. [ Cheers and applause ] America will stand unapologetically with the nation of Israel," Cruz said. 19:13:30 He also criticized Trump for saying he'd renegotiate the Iran Nuclear Deal. "Both Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump have said they would maintain this Iranian deal, although Donald has promised, he's going to negotiate and get a better deal. Well, my view is very different. On the first day in office, I will rip this catastrophic Iranian nuclear deal to shreds," Cruz said. 19:14:30 Cruz appeared to be looking towards the general election at times by criticizing Hillary Clinton and imagining himself as the leader of a newly unified Republican party. "In the next few months, we will bring this country together, first by unifying the Republican party, and then by reaching out and building a coalition of young people and hispanics and African-Americans and women and blue collar workers and jewish voters and Reagan Democrats which will lead to a commanding victory in November that unifies this country and brings us together," Cruz said. 19:03:48 Cruz criticized Hillary Clinton for her 2014 remarks about Gaza. "Well, Madam Secretary, with all respect, the reason the missiles are in schools is not because Gaza is small. The reason the missiles are in schools is because Hamas are terrorist monsters using children as human shields," Cruz said. 19:10:08 Cruz also called on federal funds for anyone who provides financial support to the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement. I have not heard him say this before. "I will do everything in my power to ensure that anyone who provides financial support to the BDS movement, including schools and universities, will lose any access to federal funding," Cruz said. -- Jessica Hopper Digital Journalist ABC News Cell: 202-617-9230 Email: Jessica.M.Hopper@abc.com <mailto:Jessica.M.Hopper@abc.com> Highlighs of Paul Ryan's remarks to AIPAC tonight ALL QUOTES ROUGH//CHECK AGAINST LOG TAPE - SNAPSTREAM below - You've heard a lot...from speakers - you know, what it's not enough though , the speeches, the statements all in the world mean nothing if you do not back them up with actions. 18:03 House renewed support for iron dome when rockets shot at it two years ago When return first trip of speakership will be to Israel As long as I am speaker we will not allow any leg that divides two countries - 18:04 "American is safer when we stand with Israel. So if there's one thing I would ask you to take away from this night it's this: my colleauges and I will do everything we can to concrete our friendship.." "that's what I think most time.some people say "Middle East a mess// a liability // hamstrings America 6:05 "friendships between two countries is in not just our countries interest but both countries interest - interest of the world" 6:06 6:10 "so why is our relationship with Israel so important? Because our fight in Israel against terrorism is one and the same: Israel is first target and America is ultimate target. Because they have same vaules 6:11 "but it does help police protect here in our country fails to realize what allies need 617 you're going to make a huge decision in 2016, and in the house we're hoping to crystallize that.take words of Gen. Patteson (?) 'we need to take our own side in this fight' SNAPSTREAM LOG H/T MALKA - MUST BE CHECKED applause] All I have to say is wow. It is nice to see you here today. [Applause] I want to say that thank you so much for invitee me today end of to Washington D.C. I heard from a lot of folks today you have heard from a lot of folks today. [Laughter] It is always a good thing when America's leaders declare support for Israel. But that is not enough. The speeches, statements speeches, statements, allthe burden of world me nothing if you did not back them up with action. [6:03:23 PM] [Cheers and applause] That is why two years ago when the rockets -- rockets were falling on tel aviv the house approved emergency support for the iron dome. [Applause] And that is why we did just two months of me taking the speakership we voted to fund every penny of our assistance commitment. [Applause] And that is why in my trip overseas as speaker of the house my first trip will be to return to Israel. [Cheers and applause] And that is why I can pledge to you tonight as long as I am speaker of the house house, mobile will not allow any legislation that divides our countries to come to the house floor for any consideration. [Applause] It is action and deeds that build trust. And our friendship is too important to. The dangers we face are two real to let there be any misgivings between us.Like my house colleagues I and a stand that America is not safer when we back away from Israel. It is safer when we stand with Israel. [Applause] So if there is one thing I would ask you to take away from tonight to is this common my colleagues and I will do everything we can and to strengthen ourfriendship. [6:05:26 PM] Digest with words but concrete achievements. Note taking funds for granted her leaving the middle lurch it is a priority in American leaders should act like is. [Applause] That is my take most Americans believe fumble sides of the aisle. But I do hear people raising doubts every now and then to say things like the middleEast is a mess it is none of our business. Why are we taking sides? The say however appliance is some liability. They say that I hamstrings America and cuts against our interests and in my experience it does us no good to wave off our opponents to dismiss them as narrow minded or be high-minded about it. That is a bridge to divide that deepens the divide. Instead we need to confront our critics' arguments head on and have a real conversation and I would say that I firmly believe thatthe friendship between our two countries is not just in Israel's interest in America's interest. [Applause] It is good for Israel and good for America and good for the world. It is really just a lesson in history. For many years we avoided but Thomas Jefferson called the entangling alliances. The great powers that they wanted to use for their own purposes so we stayed out. [6:07:39 PM] That all changes with world War II. We learn the hard way even if you don't go looking for trouble and has a way of finding you. The date that Japan bombed pearl harbor we realize to oceans could no longer protect us anymore. Our interest reached across the world and so did the threat. We could not be in north America north Africa the to deliberate the islands of the south pacific. We had to work with other countries who share our objective is. And we had to lead a global alliance.And a new threat to either merged setting up public regimes all across evening missiles that the friends in western Europe soviets faced the choice either withdrawfrom a the world and ourselves to make ourselves into a garrison state or pursue a four word meaning defense with icky video free nations to keep open commerce these are the years that we create the imf in did 1948 we're the first country to recognize minutes after she declared Independence. [Cheers and applause] >> The first country. [6:09:47 PM] Both the cold war A&M of World War we are safer when we work with each other and stem by a each other and trust each other because then with the threat ariseswe are confronted together. Those threats are very different now. North Korea displays the nuclear weapons Iran backs terrorist groups says it will jockey for dominance in the Middle East. It even with the rise of ISIS it has taken hold. To face the aggressive ideology. New York is that relationship so important? Because of the fight against terrorism the interest is one in the same. In we are the ultimate target. [Applause] Is a liberal democracy with those countries become stronger. And just remember and to fight terrorism in our country. [Cheers and applause] >> Pretty profound. This is the crux of the matter. The current administration understand that we need our allies but it fails to understand what our allies need. [6:11:58 PM] [Applause] They need more than assurances that we have their back but they need to see with their own eyes the commitments I do say this to castigate or police blamed the to bring clarity to the situation we're facing. This is the most fundamental misunderstanding that has undermined our security. Exhibit a is the everyonedeal. [Applause] I think that was a terrible deal. [Cheers and applause] Not since then have we seen like this deal. End because of this deal our friends in the bellies are losing faith in us or at least in our judgment.I really got billions of dollars of sanctions and relief in exchange for what? Or just taking up some of the nuclear program? Indebted 10 or 15 years they all expire? In other words, , they get something for E essentially nothing. If it was a steel. [Applause] And headed is if they don't cheat. [Laughter] [6:14:00 PM] We all want the negotiations to a succeed but we were supposed to get something out of its. It is fine to negotiate with their enemies. It really is but not at all your friends expense that doesn't make any of the safer. [Applause] I don't think it is an accident that every few months we hear of Iran launching another ballistic missile is said and dismantling the program. We legitimize it. This is a huge threat to Israel into our country is. I am going to make something clear with the publisher support it optimistic or skeptical and I sense a fewskeptics in this room today but it is your right to question your government on any issue at any time. [Cheers and applause] That is applied to aipac does and why you were here. If anybody questions that right, of beastie and with few. [Applause] So we have to do everything we can to shore up our alliance. We have to hold their Rand accountable for its violations and push back against Iranian aggression. A and extend our bilateral security agreement and also include missile defense. [6:16:02 PM] And one more thing to the ways avd means we have to push back with clarity. With any attempts by any other country to boycott to ever sanctioned Israel. This is where your voice is and must be heard. This is what they're going to do to us. We can and must me clear on this. And did you know, what this does? It sends a signal is the will stand by through a thick and thin. We have a choice coming. You have people running for president. But here is what we see. You have a choice coming.We will make a big choice in 2016 and along those lines in the house we will try to help crystallize that choice. In to design a strategy and to strengthen allegiances inthe with the words of general James Madison and that we need to take our own side in this fight. [Applause] There is a cited to be taking. Then we will need the help of aipac and everyone here today. A and we need especially the help of the young people better here in this room. [6:18:12 PM] [Applause] Why? Because of the decisions that we make today to determine what type of world you can hear it just knowing you want to take part gives me hope for the future because of your help we can do this. I want to leave you with this. We need to build a confident America. That it does not shrink from commitments or allies. Into a cozy up to Iran a confidence America keeps its word. We stand by our allies and Israel that is of those countries need. I do I just threw a lot that you into thinking what does he care about is real? -- Israel but there is a vibrant jewish comedian Wisconsin. [Applause] Id everyone are die-hard Green Bay packer fans. [Laughter] This is something we're very proud of. Also give a tour of the Israel committee and all walks of life. When we visited different houses of worship one of the most questions is what the short position on Israel? [6:20:20 PM] It is it just some constituency but my friends and family and neighbors. The committee has done so much for Wisconsin you will always have my deepest gratitude. [Applause] So I just want to thank you for having me tonight and in advance for the work between Israel and America to make sure we get it right make sure you keep doing it. God bless. Ali Dukakis Digital Journalist ABC News | Washington, D.C. c: 202 489 9458 @ajdukakis

White House briefing with Press Secretary Robert Gibbs and Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano GIBBS: Good afternoon. Welcome to the White House. Before we get started, I have one quick announcement. On Sunday, August 29th, President Obama will travel to New Orleans, Louisiana, to mark the fifth anniversary of Hurricane Katrina. The visit will include remarks by the president at Xavier University of Louisiana. Members of the president's cabinet who've worked to speed recovery and restoration efforts in the region 12:10:55 also will be in New Orleans to mark the anniversary. 12:10:58 We will have more on that trip, obviously, as it gets closer. Next, we -- we are joined today by Secretary Napolitano. As you know, just a little while ago, with Secretary Napolitano the president signed into law a border security bill that puts more agents and more equipment along the Mexican border. And she is here to talk about that, our efforts to -- to bolster the border region since coming into office. And I will turn it over to the secretary. NAPOLITANO: Thank you. Well, thank you. Good afternoon, everybody. And thank you for being here today. I was very pleased to be with the president earlier as he signed a bill providing $600 million in additional resources to further strengthen security along the southwest border. 12:11:57 We applaud Congress for acting in a bipartisan manner to take quick action on this bill. I'd like to especially thank Leaders Reid and Pelosi and also Senators Schumer and McCaskill. 12:12:12 The legislation adds permanent resources that will continue to bolster security along the southwest border, supporting our efforts to crack down on transnational criminal organizations and reduce the trafficking of people, drugs, currency, and weapons. The bill is important in two respects. First, it adds new resources to the border. Second, it makes permanent many of the assets that this administration has surged along the border during the past 18 months. Now, let me pause there for a moment. I have worked on border issues as a public servant for 17 years, starting in 1993 as United States attorney in Arizona, then the attorney general of Arizona, then the governor of Arizona, continuing through today as the secretary of homeland security. What's significant about this bill, in addition to its contents, is that it passed something with bipartisan support that gives us the resources to continue efforts that were well underway and demonstrates that the border is not and should not be a political issue. It is a matter of national security in which we all, both parties, have a stake. And on that score, even before the president signed this bill, the administration had already devoted more resources to the southwest border than at any point in American history. These efforts are making a difference, 12:13:47 and they are the reason why everything that is supposed to be going up is going up and everything that is supposed to be going down is going down. Seizures are up and rose across the board last year. Apprehensions, or illegal crossings, are down. For the first time ever, we are screening 100 percent of southbound rail. Criminal alien removals are at all-time high. We've added more technology, manpower and resources to the border than ever before. This is a long-term, systematic effort to defeat the cartels and to continue to secure the border. The administration is dedicated to that approach, and that's why the president ordered 1,200 National Guard troops to the border, and it's why he asked Congress for this supplemental funding. 12:14:38 Now, the bill -- in terms of manpower, the bill provides for 1,000 additional Border Patrol agents. It contains $68 million for Customs and Border Protection officers at our ports of entry, facilitating legal traffic and interdicting contraband. It enables ICE, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, to hire more than 200 special agents, investigators, and intelligence analysts who will help combat narcotics smuggling and their associated violence. It provides for two more unmanned aircraft systems and has $14 million to deploy improved tactical communications technology that will improve enforcement, particularly along some of the more remote areas of the border. It also includes $196 million for the Justice Department to surge federal law enforcement, add prosecutors, immigration judges, and support for detention and incarceration of criminal aliens in coordination with our homeland security enforcement efforts. 12:15:43 And in terms of infrastructure, it includes $6 million for two forward operating bases to improve our border enforcement activities. This bill is clearly another step forward on border security, on top of the significant progress that the administration has already made. It is one of the many tools in the toolbox we have constructed along the border. 12:16:13 So we're very pleased with its swift passage, very pleased the president was able to sign this bill into law today. And now I'm happy to take your questions. QUESTION: Madam Secretary... GIBBS: (OFF-MIKE) QUESTION: Thank you. Thanks. Secretary Napolitano, when the president spoke about immigration last month, one of the points he made is that our borders are just too vast for us to be able to solve the problem only with fences and border patrols, it won't work. Our borders will not be secure as long as our limited resources are devoted to not only stopping gangs and potential terrorists, but also the hundreds of thousands who attempt to cross each year simply to find work. Is the administration now in any way conceding that comprehensive immigration reform is not tenable, that you can actually fix this problem bill by bill? NAPOLITANO: No. No, I would -- I would say quite the opposite. I think the administration's position is that this bill adds to significant border security efforts that have been underway for the past 18 months. 12:17:09 And the administration is very intent now in saying, look, this bill passed on a bipartisan basis. Now let's get Republicans to the table finally so we can address the whole issue of immigration reform. These are not sequential items; these are things that should be done together. QUESTION: So is it your sense, having gotten this piece through, and knowing the politics as well as the policy, that comprehensive reform is still something that can happen in the next couple years? 12:17:39 NAPOLITANO: Oh, absolutely. And it needs to happen. And -- and, again, I say this as someone with a lot of experience with the immigration issue and along the border. We need a safe and secure border. This is a 2,000-mile -- roughly -- expanse. It involves a lot of legitimate and legal trade of commerce, goods, tourism, people that need to be able to go back and forth. So the border area itself needs to be safe and secure. But as a nation, we also need immigration reform. GIBBS: But let me just add this. I think you've seen -- the president's talked about this. 12:18:11 As I've mentioned in here before, the president's worked on this in 2005, 2006, 2007 as a member of the United States Senate. Leaders in the Senate made tough decisions and tough votes to get a bill because Democrats and Republicans worked together. Nothing is going to happen on this issue in a comprehensive way that only involves one party or one person, right? Secretary Napolitano's home state had leaders that were willing to make tough votes, willing to roll up their sleeves and be leaders. And the question is -- we will get comprehensive immigration reform when we go back to a time in which both Democrats and Republicans are willing to be leaders, and only -- only then. It's not going to go through the Senate or the House or Congress and come to any president's desk because one party has willed it to do so. QUESTION: Well, I guess that's my point, just to finish up on this, is that there always seem to be strong support at some level for securing the border, but not for the more difficult parts, including, you know, a guest-worker program and so forth. So how -- how does this differ from that? You've got the part that both parties can support. Where does the rest come from? 12:19:28 NAPOLITANO: Well, I think the -- the efforts on overall immigration reform are ongoing. But the point I'm making is that you need to multitask. You need to secure the border and have a safe and secure border area, and you need immigration reform. That's what this president has set out to do. That's what he has asked the Department of Homeland Security to work on. That's why he has invited Republicans and Republican leadership to the table to say, look, let's get to the issue of immigration reform. But at the same time, we want to make sure that the border itself and that -- that 2,000-mile expanse is safe and secure. QUESTION: Just following on that, I'm wondering if you could talk a little more specifically about the president's timetable for bringing about comprehensive immigration reform, for getting Republicans to the table. And how much will this be contingent on the outcome of the November elections? Are you concerned that if Republicans increase in strength, then the prospects diminish? NAPOLITANO: Well, I think the purpose of our briefing here today is to talk about this bill, its significance, the fact that it passed in a bipartisan fashion, and very swiftly. I mean, the president made a formal request for this supplemental funding, I think, in June. And we are now -- we have already begun moving resources, in addition to what we had already put at the border, to the border. 12:20:51 This will allow us to make some of those movements permanent. And the addition of 1,000 more Border Patrol agents on top of the 20,000 we already have, that is significant; 200 more ICE agents that we can devote to special investigations involving the cartels that use that border and its trafficking routes, that is very significant. Unmanned aerial systems that we can add to the ones we already have, along with the fixed-wing and helicopters that we have, that allows us to have the capacity for 24/7 air coverage along this border. This is the most kind of systemic border security package, when you add everything together, that has happened that we've ever seen. QUESTION: Without being impolite, the question was, what is the timetable for -- now that you have this bill, which is significant and clearly lays the groundwork for comprehensive immigration reform, what's the timetable for the next step? And how much is it contingent on the elections? NAPOLITANO: Look, the president has said from the beginning that immigration reform is a priority for him. 12:21:49 He has reiterated that as recently as the speech at American University, which you were quoting from. And he has invited Congress to the table. But, again, as was said earlier, this is in the hands of the Congress, and they will need to address this in a bipartisan way. It can't only be done by Democrats. The Republicans need to be willing to come to the table. The timetable question should be addressed to them. GIBBS: And I think -- just to add one thing - 12:22:18 nobody has suggested that I have heard that -- that only one step needs to be taken to have comprehensive immigration reform. This is an aspect of it. It's something we always mention. But there are obviously other aspects that -- that are needed and that people are interested in doing. And the president has -- has reached out to and has talked to Democrats and Republicans on this issue. We just need a little support to make it happen. QUESTION: But if you -- if you don't get those other aspects, if you don't get comprehensive reform, is this not just then a drop in the bucket in attacking the problem? 12:23:01 NAPOLITANO: No. And I say this, again, as someone who is from a border state and has governed a border state. There's a -- the border region is -- is an important, critical area for this country. So much trade and commerce occurs along there. People live in communities along that border region. We want to make sure that border region is safe and secure. We want to -- and that requires a law enforcement approach that includes manpower, that includes infrastructure, that includes technology. And that's why this bill, added to what we've already done, gives us the -- the resources necessary for that kind of a system to be in place. That makes a lot of difference for people who live in that area and for the country as a whole. QUESTION: Could I ask you about -- you've mentioned the crossings are down. Could you talk a little bit more about that, in terms of the numbers? And to what degree do you think that is the result of the economy, that there simply aren't the jobs here now for people to -- to want to cross the border? And to what degree is it because of specific measures that have been taken by this administration? 12:24:04 NAPOLITANO: Right. We can give you specific numbers, but I can tell you from my own experience that crossings are down, I have to say, 50 percent, 60 percent from even a few years ago. QUESTION: Some people believe almost all that is because of the economy. NAPOLITANO: I think it's -- it is fair to say that the economy has something to do with it. But it is also fair to say that the additional law enforcement resources at the border also have something to do with it. And there's a third factor, I think, that should be taken into account, and that is, we have undertaken really an unprecedented partnership with Mexican law enforcement, with the Calderon administration, with law enforcement on the southern side of the border, and that also is having an effect. QUESTION: To follow on that, can you quantify what this extra money and resources is going to mean, in terms of percentages of all the things that you're trying to curtail? NAPOLITANO: Got to ask the question -- I'm not sure I understand. QUESTION: Sure. You said you're trying to limit the activity of drug cartels, of narcotrafficking, of human trafficking, $600 million, 1,200 National Guard troops. How much of an effect is that going to have? Can you quantify it in terms of numbers and percentages? 12:25:16 NAPOLITANO: It's always difficult to quantify a negative, how much have you prevented from occurring? But what we can give you are exact numbers on how -- how much crossings have gone down and how much seizures have gone up. And that will give you some of the matrix. QUESTION: But now you're adding more resources. So I guess the question is -- critics might say, well, you're throwing this in, you're doing this for political show in order to lay the groundwork for November, in order to lay the groundwork or the predicate for pursuing comprehensive reform at some point in the future. What effect is this actually going to have? And that's -- that's the genesis of the question I'm asking. NAPOLITANO: I think you will see crossings continue to go down, and I think you will continue to see seizures going up. I don't know if I can give you an exact number. (CROSSTALK) QUESTION: ... because of all the... NAPOLITANO: When the resources are in place, I think you will see that, and I think you will see crime rates along the border keep -- either remain stable or keep going down so that communities along the border are safer because of this money. 12:26:14 So there are all kinds of ways you could look at it, but I -- I would look at all of those factors. QUESTION: And to follow up on the earlier questions about the timing of comprehensive reform -- so it's safe to say now that the policy pieces are -- are in place. I know you say it's not sequential, but the policy pieces are being put in place, and now it's simply a political problem to get reform through Congress? NAPOLITANO: I think -- I think it is fair to say that it is time for immigration reform, that the administration is ready to invite the Congress to get at it. But, again, as Gibbs just said, it can't be just one party. Republican leadership now needs to come to the table. QUESTION: As -- as you know, Republicans here in Washington and in -- in the region say that, while this is -- while 1,200 National Guard troops is helpful and while this money is helpful, it's not enough, it's nowhere near enough. Do you agree that more is needed? Or do you think that we really have the resources you need at this point to do the job? NAPOLITANO: I think this bill matches very well with what the president asked for in June. It augments what we had already been surging down the border, beginning in March of '09. I mean, I think people perhaps didn't recognize the fact that, since March of '09, we have been moving resources to the southwest border. This allows us to make some of these resources permanent, not temporary. So I believe that we have designed what needs to happen at this border. We have a good idea what it takes to keep this border safe and secure and that these monies will allow us to do that. 12:27:48 And, again, it shows, when the Congress acts in a bipartisan fashion, even on a -- on a complicated issue -- and border security is a complicated issue -- other issues they have addressed in a bipartisan fashion are complicated. When they do it, things can move rather swiftly. QUESTION: I'm sorry. I didn't understand, though, for sure how you're responding to my specific question. Do you think this is enough or is more needed to do the job that you think needs to be done? NAPOLITANO: I think this is -- this is what we asked for. And, of course, what we asked for is what we thought would be enough. QUESTION: Do you know how long it takes for 1,500 more agents to be hired and trained and get on the job? NAPOLITANO: Yes, the average time for a Border Patrol agent to go from hiring to training to be boots on the ground is eight months. QUESTION: (OFF-MIKE) NAPOLITANO: Is eight months. 12:28:45 ANN COMPTON QUESTION: And once you get all of these in place, you feel you have kind of a long-term now stabilization on the numbers there. Is the gap widening between the border security and then the more political issue on the other side of what to do will the illegal aliens who are in the United States now? Isn't that a problem that now has even farther -- especially with the lawsuits that are out there -- is that becoming farther and farther from a possibility, not only this year, but next? NAPOLITANO: Well, again, that goes to the issue of, you know, underlying immigration reform with those already in the country. But we have set pretty clear priorities for ICE about who -- who they should focus on from a law enforcement perspective, just like any prosecution office would. And we have directed -- and the assistant secretary has directed -- that we focus on criminal aliens, and -- and record numbers are being removed from our country, criminal aliens, that we focus on gang members, that we focus on felony fugitives. And when you look at the numbers, the numbers show that ICE has made significant strides in that regard, and, really, record numbers are being removed. QUESTION: Thank you, Robert. Madam Secretary, as far as this bill the president signed this morning is supported by the Indian-Americans and companies doing business in India, but there is red alert in India and also among companies doing business in India, part of the bill, which is that this bill will be paid by those H-1B visa holders, who will be entering the U.S., but they have not entered yet, but it will be paid by them. And, also, that this bill might impact U.S.-India relations, and what many companies are saying, this bill should be paid by those who are illegal in this country, but not those people doing business in India. 12:30:40 NAPOLITANO: Well, I think the method of payment, which is an increased visa charge for certain business-related businesses, business-related visas, makes a lot of sense, because what it's saying is that we're going to make sure that we -- we pay for immigration in this part of it, but we paid for it out of -- out of the visa system. And that way it doesn't come out of the general fund, which is necessary for so many other things. And so the Senate was able to find a way to fund this bill that doesn't add to the deficit and allows us to get the enforcement monies we need on a permanent basis. QUESTION: Do you think it will impact in any way, as far as India, U.S.-India relations, in this connection and the companies doing business in India? NAPOLITANO: I think this administration has a very close relationship with India, and we know and hope to sustain it as such. QUESTION: Thank you. QUESTION: Back on the issue of comprehensive immigration reform, there is a concern about the temporary worker program, as you have started with this precursor of that (ph). Marc Morial, for instance, the head of the National Urban League, is concerned that there needs to be more accountability in the process of screenings, just in case there are companies that decide that they may need to go outside of the United States to bring in some workers. What say you about that and bringing in more accountability (inaudible) making sure that they exhausted all avenues, that no one wants to work in that company, and they have to go abroad to Mexico? NAPOLITANO: Well, I think we are all concerned and focused on making sure in the business side of the immigration process that the rules are followed, that the rules are enforced, and that jobs are not unfairly precluded for American workers. And that's the directive that's gone out. QUESTION: But it might be the directive, but what -- what kind of teeth are you putting in place? What kind of accountability efforts are you putting in place to make sure that businesses are exhausting every measure that they can to make sure that no one wants a job in the United States before they go out into Mexico to do hiring? NAPOLITANO: We can give you a separate briefing, but at USCIS, they have begun or have been conducting a -- a lot of oversight or go- backs on visas that are given to make sure that the rules are being followed. QUESTION: Lindsey Graham, who's been specifically working on this issue, you were talking about the need for Republicans to come to the table. Is the administration specifically reaching out to him? NAPOLITANO: I think the administration has reached out to a number of Republicans, including Senator Graham. 12:33:34 And I think we all recognize that this is an issue that's not going to go away, that immigration needs to be addressed, even as we secure the border. And so, yes, the administration has reached out to Republican leadership and -- and to others, including Senator Graham. QUESTION: And has he indicated that he would be willing to work with you on something? NAPOLITANO: Well, he cosigned a op-ed with Senator Schumer, and they -- they together, because of where they sit in the Judiciary Committee structure, have key roles to play on whether an immigration bill can move through the Senate. And that -- that op-ed, which the president has endorsed, laid out, really, what the framework for an immigration bill should be. QUESTION: That was a while ago, though. I mean, more recently -- more recently? NAPOLITANO: Again, I have seen no sign that there's any change in Senator Graham's position. QUESTION: Secretary Napolitano, last week, after a nun was killed in a drunk driving accident in Prince William County, you asked for a review into the circumstances that led the alleged driver to be released back -- by ICE back in 2008. Just looking for some details there, when you expect that review to be completed. Will the results be public? And what questions are you hoping it will answer? 12:34:53 NAPOLITANO: The review is not complete yet. I don't have a completion date, but it's something we're tracking out of our headquarters. I think we want to know the same thing that the public wants to know: Why was this individual, with two DUIs in his past, out on the road? And we want to make sure that the directives that we have issued since this individual entered the immigration system, that the -- the directives would -- would -- would make sure that somebody like this would not be released onto the road. QUESTION: And will those results be made public? Or is this just for internal... NAPOLITANO: You know, let me -- let me not answer that question prematurely, because I don't know whether there's a -- whether that would compromise an ongoing investigation. But to the extent we can make things public, we absolutely want to. QUESTION: Thank you, Madam Secretary. A number of Republicans, notably on the House side, have indicated they would be warmer toward a comprehensive immigration package if there was more being done on the fence. Was more money put in for the fence along the border? And what is its status right now? 12:36:09 NAPOLITANO: The fence -- for monies -- there is not money in here specifically for fence in this supplemental, but we have built out the fence to the extent, minus about six miles, that it has received appropriations. And so, in our view, the fence is there. But the fence is only part of this, meaning, as I said, I think, you know, famously when I was a governor, you show me a 15-foot fence, and I'll show you a 16-foot ladder. You've got to have -- you've got to have infrastructure, plus you've got to have the manpower and technology to back it up, and you've got to have the air cover. And that's really the system that we have been putting in place over the last 18 months. And that's what's in this bill. QUESTION: So you're saying that the fence is just six miles short of completion? 12:37:03 NAPOLITANO: From the amount that was appropriated for the fence, that's right. And I think that six miles -- I may be corrected -- but I believe almost all of that's in litigation. GIBBS: Yes, sir? QUESTION: You talked about the money in the bill for incarceration and prosecution, but is that record deportation of criminal immigrants, was that straining your existing resources? NAPOLITANO: I think that's -- I think it's fair to say, yes, it was. And one of the things about this bill that's significant is that it recognizes that this is a system, and it's a system that crosses federal departments. So if you're -- if you're going to increase efforts on border security, if you're going to increase efforts on removing and deporting criminal aliens and the like, you need more on the detention side, you need more on the immigration judge side, you need more on the U.S. attorneys side. And so there's $196 million in here for the Justice Department. QUESTION: Secretary Napolitano, could I ask you to weigh in on the 14th Amendment controversy before Congress right now? Do you think it's remotely practicable to (OFF-MIKE) I don't know. Just what do you make from an immigration perspective and a policy perspective about this born in the United States and -- and discussion about whether to -- you should no longer be a citizen? Are you surprised that Senator Graham and some of the other senators who have, you know, intimated they want to debate this issue have gone there? NAPOLITANO: You know, I have to tell you, 12:38:34 I am surprised, to say the least, that discussion is being had about amending the United States Constitution before we even get to the table on amending the statutes that actually carry out immigration policy. I think that's where the action needs to be. And any talk of amending the Constitution is just wrong. QUESTION: (OFF-MIKE) also? Or do you think... (CROSSTALK) NAPOLITANO: I think it's just wrong. QUESTION: Can we follow on that? GIBBS: (OFF-MIKE) (LAUGHTER) QUESTION: I just wonder if you've discussed that with the president, and do you have a sense of his positions on it? GIBBS: Well, I -- I -- I think I spoke on this two days ago after having discussed this with the president. 12:39:13 And what I said was very much -- the president and Secretary Napolitano agree on this. Let's take this a couple different ways. The 14th Amendment enshrines -- and has for more than 150 years -- equal protection and due process, two things -- excuse me -- two things that we don't think need to be tampered with. I think the secretary's just pointed out, the process for augmenting the Constitution takes a long time, right? With a little leadership, we could have comprehensive immigration reform. 12:39:48 And it is -- it is always interesting that -- as I -- and I said this the other day -- I will say it one more time -- that those that have, with steadfast fidelity, talked about not tampering with our Constitution, have now swerved to pick the 14th Amendment as the best place to address comprehensive immigration reform. It is -- it's rich in its irony. It's wrong in its approach. QUESTION: Governor Brewer, in justifying the state's immigration law, has -- has repeatedly said that the federal government is not doing its job. Do you see this legislation in -- in part as an answer to that criticism? And I'm also wondering, can you talk about what conversations -- we know she met with the president earlier this year -- that you have had with her, your successor? 12:40:40 NAPOLITANO: Well, I'll take it in two ways. One is, I think her factual premise was -- was just wrong. The facts are the facts. And the facts are that there are, you know, more Border Patrol agents at that border than ever before. There's more infrastructure at the border than ever before. There's more technology at the border than ever before. There's more air cover at the border than ever before. And the results are the results. The results are that illegal crossings are way down and seizures of drugs and guns and -- and -- and cash are way up. And so I think that the factual premise that she posited, which is that somehow the federal government had ignored Arizona, was just inaccurate and -- and unfairly so. And we will continue to augment the resources that we have been putting into Arizona, particularly the east side of the state, which is known as the Tucson sector. You know, when I was the U.S. attorney, I supervised the prosecution of at least 6,000 immigration felonies. This is an area I know quite well. And I will tell you, there has never been a greater federal presence at this border. So the factual premise for the bill was wrong. Now, I did meet with Governor Brewer in Boston during the NGA. And I -- we just discussed all the things that we were doing at the Arizona border. It was a very -- very professional and cordial conversation. GIBBS: Yes, ma'am? QUESTION: Madam Secretary, the Republicans along the way have said that you have to secure the border first. You yourself have listed a number of steps that the administration has taken during the past 18 months. My question to you is, first of all, how will the administration respond? Because there are already Republicans saying that this is an important first step, but more has to be done. The question is, when will the border be secure? Who will certify that the border is secure, if that is what is needed to get comprehensive immigration reform? How do you respond to that? NAPOLITANO: Well, I think this -- this is more than a first step. I mean, I go back to March of 2009 when we began moving assets and resources down into the southwest border. So I disagree with that characteristic. Secondly, as I've said before, this is - 12:43:05 this is a great bill for us. This is a great bill. It adds 1,000 Border Patrol agents. It adds ICE agents. It adds air cover. It adds other technology. It helps us to make sure we have the most up-to-date communications technology at the border, which is really important, because some areas are -- you can't cover with a cell phone, because there aren't any cell towers down there, so you really need the communications capacity. So, you know, that -- that part is there. And what I would simply say is, sometimes I hear securing the border and the goalpost just keeps moving. Well, we've done this. We need to do -- and this and this and this. And I say, look, 12:43:46 we will continue to do everything we need to do to have a safe and secure southwest border. We will continue to do everything we need to do to work with counties along that border. We now have the secure communities system, as I've said before, at every one of the 25 counties along the border. We will continue to make sure that our efforts are informed by good intelligence and analysis so we're not just throwing money at the border. But that should not be used anymore to preclude discussions about immigration reform. As I've -- as I've said many times, these should not be sequential; they should go together. QUESTION: Yes, ma'am? QUESTION: (OFF-MIKE) Madam Secretary. One of them -- ICE has said that they can only get (OFF-MIKE) a year because they just don't have more resources (ph). I wonder if this bill would provide some more resources to get some more deportations? And the second one is, some activists have said that by funding this bill alone, the most radicals have hijacked the debate on comprehensive immigration reform. And I would like to see your reaction to that. NAPOLITANO: Well, I think it is likely that we will see more deportations, particularly in the priority categories I have set forth. Can I give you a number just yet? No, it would be premature to do so. But, obviously, our goal is to make the best, most efficient use of the money that we get, receive from the Congress, and focus it on where we think the best efforts ought to be, and that is making sure we are removing from our country criminal aliens, felony fugitives, gang members who are -- who are also in our country illegally, particularly once they've served their sentences. For those who say -- or would suggest that somehow this bill is radical, what did you say -- what was the phrase you used? QUESTION: (OFF-MIKE) that by passing this bill alone, the radicals have hijacked the debate, basically, and moved it to more law enforcement type... 12:45:50 NAPOLITANO: No, I think that's just wrong. I think this bill is a bill that the president asked for. He asked for it because we know that we can make good use of these monies for permanent and consistent across-the-border security. And that's what we want to have. But that in no way should be read to suggest, imply, or in any way back off from the fact that we also need immigration reform. GIBBS: Yes, ma'am. QUESTION: (OFF-MIKE) that key elements of border security are (OFF-MIKE) for example, implementation of operations to streamline in Tucson sector (ph) and more Border Patrol agents among other things. So I was wondering if you agree with the statement. Do you agree that these kind of measures are still needed in the border? 12:46:41 NAPOLITANO: Well, again, Operation Streamline has proven effective in some places where it is used. We use it in -- in some places. It's very expensive, and there are other methods that we use that have proven equally effective. And so, you know, as you're trying to make the best use of taxpayer dollars and make sure that they're targeted where they can do the best, you know, Streamline is one way. Repatriation into the interior of Mexico is another way that has proven very effective. And so we need a lot of different kinds of tools in our toolbox. And I think it is a mistake to focus on any single one and say, well, if you don't have that tool, you don't have an effective system. We have a good toolbox. We have a good system. And now, with these monies, again, passed with the support of Senator McCain and Kyl, we can do even more. GIBBS: We'll take one more from the... QUESTION: Just a follow-up, a quick follow-up? Madam Secretary, you said that leadership is needed from the Republicans and Democrats in Congress in order to have comprehensive immigration reform, but in Congress they said that leadership in the White House is needed in order to have comprehensive immigration reform, so... (CROSSTALK) 12:47:59 NAPOLITANO: Look, only Congress can pass a bill. The president can -- can advocate. He can get them to the table, as he has in the Roosevelt Room upstairs. He can implore. He can provide ideas. He can agree to a framework, as he already has. He can give a major address that spells out what's needed in a bill, but only Congress can pass a bill. QUESTION: We'll take one more in the very back (OFF-MIKE) QUESTION: Businesses from India and the U.S. have said that the portion of the bill which raises the fee on H-1 and L-1 visa is discriminatory and this will undermine the growing economic relations between India and U.S. What's the comment on that? NAPOLITANO: I -- I don't think it will. I think the United States and India have a robust and vital relationship, and nothing in this bill should interfere with that. QUESTION: Just a follow-up. About the WTO scenario where the -- the U.S. can be taken to the WTO rules are being violated with this bill? NAPOLITANO: That I can't comment to. That -- that has not been raised to me at all. QUESTION: Thank you, Madam Secretary. NAPOLITANO: All right, thank you. GIBBS: Should we do a few other topics and then call it a Friday? QUESTION: Thanks, Robert. A couple of quick topics. Down in the gulf today could be the day that the well is sealed for good, depending on (OFF-MIKE) results there. Can you give us any indication on how that's going? 12:49:31 GIBBS: Well, I would say -- and I think you -- we will have directives from the national incident commander soon. The scientific team met and was meeting this morning, as they have in each big step along the way, to evaluate where we were, take pressure readings, evaluate all the data that's applicable in making those next decisions. As you know, the storm delayed some of the activity on the relief well. It is our hope that, even as we have put the mud into the wellbore and cemented the well, that the final steps that will kill this well off once and for all will resume soon and hopefully -- hopefully come to fruition. It'd be nice to have that some time this weekend. QUESTION: (OFF-MIKE) GIBBS: It'd be nice to -- well... (LAUGHTER) No, no, be nice to have had that about 110 days ago, 12:50:34 but I say that not because of the proximity to the president's trip. I say that because we have -- we have maintained throughout this process that that was the -- that was the end of this well, is having that relief well and have -- have the -- have what that means in terms of the stability of the entire well structure. That is obviously important to moving forward. I will say this -- and I repeat this, because it is important to this government and to this president -- this would end -- a relief well -- a successful relief well would end this phase of, but would not end our commitment to this region. 12:51:22 We still have oil to clean up. We still have an environment to monitor and measure and study. We have natural resource damage assessments. And that will be -- fines that will be given to BP for that. And we have a process by which restoration of the gulf will begin. Secretary Mabus will travel with the president tomorrow to Florida, and they will -- they will talk more about that process then. QUESTION: Talk more about the restoration... (CROSSTALK) GIBBS: Talk more about sort of what these -- what sort of we're shifting into, in terms of the next steps in this process. I think it is important that the people in the region understand and know clearly that our focus has been for the past many days what we think is now very much upon us and that is a well that is dead. I think it's important to note that 12:52:27 this well has not leaked oil for a month. That's -- that is important. That's certainly important to the environment and to the people of the gulf. This well -- the relief well would kill this once and for all. That ends that phase as we transition to -- to the next phase. QUESTION: One other point, looking a little bit further ahead. Can you frame White House goals and expectations for the president's U.S. trip next week? I mean, he's going all over the place, obviously, a lot of political fundraisers to that. He's got a policy event every day. What is he hoping to get out of this? 12:52:57 GIBBS: Well, I think you'll hear the president talk a lot about the economy, different aspects of it in different places, whether it's our initiative on exports and other things. Obviously, the president's travel includes, as you mentioned, a hefty amount of political travel for -- for Senate candidates, for gubernatorial candidates, and for -- and for the congressional committee. And some of the money raised goes directly to state parties to build -- to build campaigns, strong campaigns, top to bottom within the state, in some very important areas in 2010. I think the president takes that role seriously. And we obviously are getting closer and closer to some very important elections where we'll make some important choices about going backwards or going forwards. You'll get that speech (ph). Yes? 12:53:58 ANN COMPTON QUESTION: To clarify, it sounds like you're not willing to give up on the relief wells. Just leaving the cemented top as it is now is not enough for you? 12:54:03 GIBBS: I hesitate to get ahead of what I think the national incident command is going to do soon. Again, we -- we -- the way we've always talked about this -- about this is the importance of that relief well. Despite the fact that, if you, you know, look a month ago, a sealing cap largely prevented additional oil from coming out. Mud on top of that increased that. The cementing of that increased that. But we still have the relief well. QUESTION: How do you ever go back in and find out what went wrong in the first place? You've got all these oil wells out there that calls the president discouraged at all at the stubborn nature of the economic recovery? 12:55:10 GIBBS: Yes, has been for going on 18 months. QUESTION: So -- so what else -- I mean, everything is being thrown at it. You hear about, you know, creating more opportunities for small businesses, creating... (CROSSTALK) GIBBS: Which I think is -- which -- which, I will tell you, is a -- a priority of the president and what he hopes is a priority that the Senate will complete when it comes back to do its business in the fall. We -- we hear a lot about how important small business is -- and it's true -- how important small business is to creating jobs. That's true. What we need now is that rhetoric to match the support of Republicans on Capitol Hill that, for the most part, have voted against -- and let's be clear -- ending capital gains for small business, increasing the amount that small businesses can deduct based on the investments that they make, and increasing through community banks the lending that's available for -- for credit to expand and hire more workers. That is tremendously important. I think what happened just earlier this week, ensuring that 160,000 teachers and 160,000 classrooms weren't without those teachers was tremendously important. I -- I have said this millions of times, and I'll make it a million and one. We looked at and continue to face the greatest economic downturn that our country has seen since the Great Depression, in almost every person's lifetime. 12:56:45 It is going to take a while to get out of that hole. We will continue to work at finding whatever solutions are necessary for trying to do that. I think if you -- if you look at -- and I know this is -- the president understands the frustration that the millions without jobs face. What is -- what is economically indisputable is that the actions that were taken prevented something much, much, much worse from coming to fruition. QUESTION: What will it take to restore the confidence, though, in American people who, you know -- in the spring, when we were talking to people, you got the sense that everyone thought things were getting better. Now, with polling, it seems that the people think otherwise. GIBBS: Well -- well, as I said here the other day, I think the trajectory of where April and August are, are different. Now, what we're not debating is whether that trajectory is up or down, OK? We -- if you look at where we were a year ago, if you look at where we were a year-and-a-half ago, right, we were fighting an economy that was contracting greatly. We were fighting an economy that was shedding hundreds of thousands of jobs, right, 700,000, 750,000 jobs a month. We're adding jobs. Our economy is growing, not as fast as the president and many of us that are frustrated would want -- and I would include the president among those that's frustrated. Obviously, some events happened, I think beginning -- as you've heard the president and myself say -- beginning in -- in Greece and in Europe that -- that have caused people to become concerned again. QUESTION: On the president's trip this weekend, this was asked a couple of days ago, but any plans to get in the water? GIBBS: I'm -- I doubt that that will go out specifically on the guidance, but stay tuned. (LAUGHTER) QUESTION: So yes? So yes? (CROSSTALK) QUESTION: What this is about is that everyone wants a photograph. GIBBS: Are you guys -- are you guys bringing your suits? Are you -- are you -- go ahead. (CROSSTALK) QUESTION: So yes, right? (CROSSTALK) GIBBS: I'm going to... (CROSSTALK) QUESTION: I would bring my suit if I were him, but I'm not going. GIBBS: But you're -- well, alas. Give your Speedo to somebody else. QUESTION: So the question, will he get in the water and will there be pictures? GIBBS: I will... QUESTION: Why don't you just... (CROSSTALK) GIBBS: I will wait. QUESTION: Of course they're clean enough to get into. (CROSSTALK) QUESTION: Wouldn't that say something, if he takes a walk down the (OFF-MIKE) put his feet in the water? 12:59:34 GIBBS: You know, guys, why don't we all worry about what happens on Saturday? QUESTION: It's Friday. GIBBS: I know. I know it's Friday, and we have to preview whether or not the president will go swimming. I'm going to let -- I -- I'm going to let that... (CROSSTALK) GIBBS: I see, just walking... (CROSSTALK) QUESTION: Well, above the knees. GIBBS: All right. Can you guys maybe get together, figure out what... (CROSSTALK) GIBBS: ... check the Aquaman box of... (CROSSTALK) QUESTION: I know. It's rough. Has -- was the president briefed about G.M.'s news yesterday? GIBBS: Yes. QUESTION: How did he react? And when, with an IPO likely in the coming months, does he expect to get back the government's money? GIBBS: Well, let me -- I want to -- for -- let me -- I want to state clearly, I am not -- and you have heard on any number of occasions -- members of this administration, we're -- we're not going to comment on an IPO. Obviously, that is a process that is ongoing. Once that process begins, the Securities and Exchange Commission has purview over that process, and I'm not going to run afoul of that. 13:00:50 The president -- obviously, we are grateful for -- and I think the country should be grateful for -- the service and the sacrifice of Ed Whitacre. The president was informed of this. And our belief is that -- that Dan Akerson is a proven and well-respected individual that -- that will carry on what -- what Ed and others have started in -- in restructuring an auto company that not too long ago was on the brink of extinction. They announced again yesterday a quarterly profit. They are on the upswing, as the other auto companies are, as well. You've heard the president and the administration say -- and I'm not saying this -- not in necessarily relation to the timing of IPOs -- but our belief is that, if you look at the valuation of the company and the investment that we put in, we believe the money that this administration put in will be gotten back. And I think the reason is -- and I think this is important -- the money that we invested came with managerial changes that had to be enacted. I think Ed Whitacre and I think Dan Akerson understand that G.M. made a series of decisions that got them into a position, with the type of economic downturn that we had, that, quite frankly, put the existence of the company in great danger. 13:02:41 I think both of those individuals -- and I think you have a management structure and -- and work ethic at that company in management -- and we all saw the tremendous job that those that are working each day putting those new cars together. There's an understanding that they have a second chance, that that investment required them to do some things differently, and they are. And now there's a much different story to tell in the auto world that will only, quite frankly, get better as our economy gets stronger and more people buy cars. We're -- you've heard me say these figures before, right? The auto industry's sort of apex was at 17 million to 17.5 million car sales a year. The economy that we were dealing with when the president came into office was one that was selling at 9 million, 9.5 million cars a year. Now we're up to 11 million to 11.5 million cars a year. We'll get higher and higher, and the industry itself will get, by definition, stronger and stronger. QUESTION: (OFF-MIKE) does the president feel like his philosophy on governance has been vindicated by this? 13:03:57 GIBBS: Well, I think his philosophy that a million people shouldn't lose their jobs without us taking -- without us doing what is necessary to keep them, I think the president's philosophy that communities that -- that are built around and generations of families that are built around work in the auto industry shouldn't be abandoned without a fighting chance, I think has proven to be correct. I -- I -- the president would be, though, the first to tell you that management decisions that were made, as I just talked about, to change the direction and trajectory of the auto industry were important. And everybody made sacrifices. Most of all, the workers, as they -- as they did what they thought they needed to do to keep an industry in place. They -- they are owed a lot of credit for what has happened. QUESTION: Are you familiar with the Benenson memo? GIBBS: Benenson memo? I know Joel. I don't know -- I don't know what the memo is. QUESTION: He put out a memo -- or maybe you could just address the argument. Basically, it's that this is not as -- this is not going to be a wave election because the Republicans are even less popular than the Democrats are. GIBBS: Well, I will say -- I -- my sense is Joel's memo is sitting somewhere in my inbox. I have not seen Joel's memo. 13:05:47 I will say, if you just look at -- if you look at the NBC poll, if you look at the NBC poll, you see that the -- the drop in ratings for Republicans is -- is greater than any other political party. They continue to be less popular than -- than -- than Democrats do. I think, if you look at that -- that polling you see a fairly appreciable change in the enthusiasm gap over -- over the course of several months. I think, quite honestly, the president has -- has pointed out to the American people and others what those choices are. Are we going to take an economic philosophy that got us into this mess and go back to that or an economic philosophy that is getting out of it? And I think -- I think that's what the next several months of this election will be about and I think -- I think will do well in November. QUESTION: (OFF-MIKE) along with the recent election, does the White House -- does the president feel Democrats are on a little bit of a roll right now? GIBBS: Well, as I said, I think there's -- what is -- what is -- undoubtedly, Democrats had a very good Tuesday. In -- in every state, we nominated the strongest candidates and in many of those races got opponents that I think most people believe make the chances of Republicans winning many of those races less likely. QUESTION: And tomorrow, does the president see this as a family vacation? And can you really have a family vacation in 27 hours? GIBBS: Well, the president views this as -- I think it's important to... QUESTION: Wasn't it originally billed as a vacation? GIBBS: Well, I think this was originally billed as and continues to be billed as highlighting the notion that a region of the country that is heavily dependent upon tourism is alive, well, and open for business. For a number of these communities -- certainly those closer to -- closer to Louisiana and Mississippi and Alabama, for a lot of these communities, you -- you -- you talk to folks there, and this was to be the first season past Katrina and Rita and other natural disasters that things were -- things would have been back to normal for the entire time. And we know that well down the coast of Florida, communities that never saw oil are being impacted economically. 13:08:21 Tourism in Florida and along the Gulf Coast is the economy. This is an opportunity to highlight the notion that this important region of the country is still doing well and open for business. It will also provide the president an opportunity to, again, talk to those that have been affected by the damage caused by BP and a desire to talk again with them about what has to happen going forward to restore both economically and environmentally the damage that's been done. QUESTION: So it's not a vacation? GIBBS: Look, he's going to have some fun. Whether or not he gets in the water is up for clearly some debate. But, look, he will have an opportunity to enjoy the -- the physical beauty of the gulf and do some work at the same time. Yes, sir? QUESTION: This evening, the president is hosting (inaudible) dinner in honor of Ramadan, in celebration of Ramadan. Has the president been monitoring closely the U.S. allied, coordinated efforts in the Pakistani gulf relief efforts, Robert? GIBBS: Well, look, obviously, the president has in his PDB been briefed on -- on the flooding that has occurred in Pakistan and asked that -- asked each day about that -- specifically about the relief efforts there and to ensure that all that can be done is being done to assist -- to assist the Pakistanis in what -- in what clearly are devastating -- a devastating environment with devastating pictures. (CROSSTALK) QUESTION: ... a follow on the Ramadan? QUESTION: In reaction to Russia's announcement that it is fueling the nuclear power plant in Iran at Bushehr, could you -- did we ask him recently not to do this? I presume we've maintained there all along that we don't want them to do this until... (CROSSTALK) GIBBS: Well, look, I think this is -- I think what is important here is, this is a -- this is done under IAEA -- under the -- the monitoring and the safeguards of the IAEA. Russia is providing for the -- the fuel and taking the spent fuel back out of the country. It, quite clearly, I think, underscores that Iran does not need its own enrichment capability if its intentions, as it states, are for a peaceful nuclear program. So I think in many ways this is -- this is a concept that closes that fuel loop and I think, again, demonstrates and proves to the world that, if the Iranians are sincere in a peaceful program, their needs can be met without undertaking its own enrichment program, which call into question its motives. QUESTION: Robert... (CROSSTALK) QUESTION: On another matter, Wikileaks says it's going to release about half of the 15,000 documents it withheld because its admitted concern about their sensitivity initially. Does this trouble you more than the initial release? 13:12:02 GIBBS: Look, I would -- I don't know that it would be easy to quantify the troubling nature of the initial releases, as with this release, as will. I think all of the releases have been troubling. We -- we discussed the nature of -- the nature of what's in these documents, why -- why there are laws in place to ensure that documents that are classified as secret and top secret aren't posted on the Internet. It's -- it's the safety and the security of our soldiers. And I -- I -- I think if you go back to the beginning of -- or go back to the initial release of documents and -- and -- and find what the spokesman for the Taliban said specifically about names that they found in those documents, that they knew how to deal with those individuals, I think we're clear on what that means. And I think we're clear on the danger that those that are helping an effort to provide safety and security and peace to the Afghans, how that is threatened by those who wish to do us harm and those who wish to continue to garner attention for themselves by posting these documents on the Internet. QUESTION: If I can ask one final question, Norm Eisen's departure and the decision to basically chop up his responsibilities among other officials and not name another ethics czar, why should that not be seen as a less of a commitment... GIBBS: I don't know who came up with the notion of an ethics czar. QUESTION: Well, we like the czar... 13:13:41 GIBBS: No, I've -- I've watched your channel. I know. (LAUGHTER) QUESTION: I mean "we" writ large, not... GIBBS: I've seen those 37 stories. QUESTION: Not just us. Why shouldn't this be seen as a lessened commitment to transparency and accountability? GIBBS: There are a number of attorneys in the counsel's office and an -- and an added position in the Domestic Policy Council to oversee our efforts to reform the way our government works and to ensure its highest ethical standard. Understand, though, that charge does not come from a participant in the counsel's office or a staffer at the DPC. It comes from the president of the United States, a president who, as a state senator in Illinois, worked to change laws in that state that allowed at one point you to use your campaign fund to buy a car, not for campaign purposes, but just to drive around, somebody who worked in the U.S. Senate to pass landmark ethics reform in 2007, and has instituted here some of the toughest rules on closing the revolving door and ensuring that the people in this country know each and every month who comes in to meet with people and who they meet with. QUESTION: To clarify Anne's earlier question on top kill versus static kill, Admiral Allen said yesterday -- I believe it was yesterday -- in a briefing that there was the possibility that there was more harm than good in trying to go for the relief well. You've noted here today that all along you guys have said that relief well is the final end-all. I'd just like a little clarification on that. Are you -- are you intimating that you will go ahead with the relief well? GIBBS: I am -- the powers vested in me are not the same as those as the National Incident Command. I'm going to let them make the final announcements on that. I think what Admiral Allen might have -- I did not see what he specifically said that you just talked about. There -- there has been -- and I said this earlier -- at each of the big points along the way, before different operations -- static kill, top kill, the sealing cap, what have you -- have taken place, there has been a -- a robust and vigorous discussion with the scientific team, largely headed by Secretary Chu, to evaluate each of the steps that we're taking, because obviously doing no harm is -- doing no harm to the situation that we have now is -- is tremendously important. 13:16:24 So I know that there were meetings going on today to evaluate a whole range of scientific data around -- around the well, the integrity of the well, and a whole host of features. QUESTION: (OFF-MIKE) relief well (OFF-MIKE) drilled? GIBBS: Well, I want to not simply imply, but state clearly that that direction will come from the National Incident Command (inaudible) QUESTION: Can I talk a little... (CROSSTALK) QUESTION: Oh, one more. I'm sorry. The symbolic nature of the trip to the gulf, there was some criticism when the first family went to Maine after the first lady had encouraged others to go to Panama City. Can you talk a little bit about the picture, the symbolic nature of why they're going to be there? 13:17:09 GIBBS: Well, again, I think that -- for anybody -- look, I grew up not far from there. I have friends that are vacationing in the gulf right now. That region of our country is so heavily dependent upon visitors from throughout the region and throughout the country for their -- the nature of their economy. That's what -- that's what fills those hotels. That's what fills those restaurants. And what the president wants to do is highlight the health of the region, the vitality of the region, that it's open for business, and that we hope others will do the same. QUESTION: There's no reason for anyone not to go to the gulf? GIBBS: There's no reason for anybody not to go. QUESTION: At the dinner tonight, do you anticipate that the president will address the issue of the mosque in New York? GIBBS: I have -- I've not seen the -- the president's final remarks. I -- I will say this. I think the president -- I think the president strongly believes that our country was founded on -- on a -- first and foremost, on -- on a tenet of religious freedom. You know, we have events throughout the year -- Christmas, Hanukkah, tonight's event, Iftar -- to celebrate -- and others -- to celebrate the rich diversity of religious freedom in this country that goes back, as I said, to its founding. 13:18:06 I anticipate he'll talk about that. Again, I have not seen the final remarks... (CROSSTALK) QUESTION: Robert, how does that square, though, with the earlier comments on this from the White House, that this is a local matter? GIBBS: Religious freedom is -- is something that the president believes in, and I think you'll hear him talk about it tonight. Yes, ma'am? GIBBS: Robert, back on Bushehr reactor, in March, when Secretary Clinton was in Russia, she said that it would be premature to open the plant until Iran has given the international community reassurances that its nuclear program was only for civil and peaceful purposes. So what -- what changed? You seem to be... (CROSSTALK) GIBBS: I -- I -- I would point you over to State. I think they can -- they can answer the difference of where we are today. QUESTION: Robert, two things. One, is the fact that the president's water (OFF-MIKE) is in question because possibly -- about Secret Service and security, getting in the water with him? Is that (OFF-MIKE) the issue? (LAUGHTER) It's a real issue, because he said something about like that... (CROSSTALK) 13:19:53 GIBBS: I will tell you, I -- you will never see me stand up here and talk about security issues, whether it's relevant to this question or not. QUESTION: (OFF-MIKE) one more question (OFF-MIKE) GIBBS: You led with the big one. And go ahead. Go with your follow-up. QUESTION: It's on -- it's on the Katrina anniversary. GIBBS: (inaudible) go ahead. QUESTION: How is New Orleans now (OFF-MIKE) another American city, especially since this administration has pulled it out of its standalone status, in the ways that you look at it (OFF-MIKE) lumped New Orleans in with other cities that are -- that just have (OFF-MIKE) financial issues and things of that (OFF-MIKE) GIBBS: I don't know what you're... QUESTION: How is the -- looking at... (CROSSTALK) 13:20:43 GIBBS: Let me -- let me -- let me -- before you rephrase your question, the region that was impacted so devastatingly by Katrina, I want to assure you, this administration does not look at like it looks at everything. I don't -- I'll be honest with you, April. I don't -- I don't think you can look at the actions, the funding that we freed up, the -- the -- the stuff that has been done by Secretary Donovan on housing, the reforms that have been helped and moved along by Secretary Duncan in education, I -- I think the premise of your question, the notion that somehow we've turned a blind eye to treat that -- I know you're shaking your head, but I'm going to take this for a little bit of a ride -- that I just don't think that it -- that -- that -- I don't think the premise of your question is accurate. 13:21:10 DISC CHANGE - 971 QUESTION: OK, I wasn't saying that it's not special and doesn't have (OFF-MIKE) what I was saying -- and let me rephrase it -- is that some OMB officials came over earlier, just -- right after the release of the 2011 -- F.Y. 2011 budget. And we asked about New Orleans. And they he said New Orleans is now by this administration viewed like Detroit. It's -- it's -- it's in a category. It's not standalone anymore, but it's in another category of a special needs (OFF-MIKE) still moving forward. That's... 13:22:05 GIBBS: I'll be honest with you, April. I have -- I -- I have -- I have not heard that. QUESTION: Thanks, Robert. QUESTION: The bill the president signed that reduces the disparity between crack cocaine and powder cocaine, you know, is not retroactive, so those who were serving -- or offenders that were serving before he signed the bill will be serving longer sentences than people in the future. Has he thought about reducing those sentences? Or has anyone looked at this? GIBBS: It's a -- a -- a good question that I will -- I will ask somebody about. QUESTION: The Wall Street Journal yesterday reported that Axelrod met yesterday with Elizabeth Warren. Can you confirm that? And what -- what do you make of that? Was it a -- were they talking about the appointment? GIBBS: They were discussing whether we were going to go swimming in the gulf. QUESTION: Walk on the water... (CROSSTALK) GIBBS: I tried as best I could not to laugh as I was doing that. 13:22:54 No, look, obviously, she -- she was -- she was here. I think it -- look, the consumer office is -- is an aspect of the financial reform, Wall Street reform bill that the president signed recently. It is -- it in many ways was an idea conceptualized by Elizabeth Warren several years ago. Obviously, we have said that -- that she is among those being -- being looked at for a role in that new bureau, because the president believes that, you know, if -- if you think about the -- the intersection that most people have with the financial industry in this country, it's -- it's getting loans for a house, it's getting loans for autos, it's -- it's credit cards. The reforms that the president worked on and passed earlier, particularly around credit cards, and the protections that he thinks need to happen going forward in -- in loans like the ones I talked about are a big part of the financial reform bill that he passed. I will say I do not expect any -- any personnel announcements about this job in the coming week, but she was here to talk about -- to talk about the office yesterday. Thanks, guys. QUESTION: (OFF-MIKE) GIBBS: The week ahead will go out on e-mail in -- in just a little bit. QUESTION: Did you say "week" or "weeks" for the announcement on the financial... GIBBS: Week. Week. I -- I -- I don't anticipate anything next week. Thank you, guys. (CROSSTALK) GIBBS: Likely, yes, but we'll have more details on that as we get closer to (OFF-MIKE) 13:24:50 END

TVU 21 TULSI GABBARD LOS ANGELES TOWN HALL ABC UNI 111119 2020 Roughly 300 supporters filled a ballroom near LAX eager to meet Tulsi Gabbard tonight. (Quick note: this was my first ever Tulsi town hall, and I was really struck by how different this was from Harris world. Her family greets reporters with hugs. Staffers who are not press secretaries actually come up and talk to you in a very open way. No one said "off the record" once. It doesn't appear anyone is fearful of reporters. Even after they found out I was a Harris embed, they were openly critical of her, joking of her present fate, and her 'arrogance') Gabbard appeared to take the bait on a reporter question alluding to Kamala Harris' campaign strategy, saying of her own campaign: 10:46 "You're seeing a lot of people who opened a lot of field offices now having to shut them down. And some of those people are seeing their poll numbers drop My trend and polling is moving in the right direction. We are using-being very fiscally responsible with the hard earned resources people are donating to our campaign" Gabbard also reacted to the NH poll that has her at 6%: "Look our polls are moving in the right direction. So it's encouraging. I take the approach in our campaign of being the tortoise rather than the hare" She was also asked if she had heard from Hillary Clinton either directly or indirectly - and she said she had not. She also said she didn't have the full picture to comment on Bolivia's Evo Morales. NO NEWS BEYOND THIS POINT: Her sister says she changed her stump dramatically this Veterans Day to highlight veterans - kicking off her stump with how politicians often forget about those who served the day after veterans day: 9:54 I have found it to be equally frustrating to hear the speeches on Veterans Day and then the very next day see many of these same politicians turning their back on us, saying you know what there's just not enough, there's no enough resources available to be sure that we are providing a roof over the head of every single homeless veteran. There are politicians more interested in their own selfish interests.... [she goes off on this point for a long time] Gabbard wove in her own story, talking about the cost of serving by talking about her own father's reaction when she returned from serving: 10:04 I gave him a hug....I noticed he was sobbing...he was crying tears of relief. Until that moment, I really didn't realize the kind of stress ...that family's go through TVU 21 TULSI GABBARD LOS ANGELES TOWN HALL ABC UNI 111119 2020 P2 GAGGLE 224210 Q: What do you believe the biggest challenge is facing our country? 224214 GABB>> I think the hyperpartisanship and the divisiveness that's tearing our country apart poses the greatest challenge for us to be able to come together and solve problems and move forward together as a country. Q: If elected, what would be one of the first moves you make in regards to foreign policy? 224238 GABB>> The greatest national security and existential threat that we face in this country is New Cold War and Nuclear Arms race that's ensuing with increasing tensions between the United States and nuclear armed countries like Russia and china. So, one of the first things I'll do is call for a summit with these two countries to begin the work, the diplomatic work to de escalate these tensions, work out differences that we have, find areas of common interest so that we can make progress towards reducing the number of nuclear weapons in the world. 224311 Putting an end to this nuclear arms race and making it so that not the American people or people of any other nation have to live in fear of nuclear war. Q: NH poll has you at 6%. Reaction? 224330 GABB>> I'm grateful for the support that we're seeing growing in places like New Hampshire and in other states in the country. Look, our pools are moving in the right direction, so it's encouraging. I take the approach in our campaign of being the tortoise rather than the hare. And so we are continuing to move forward in delivering our message. And we're seeing how it's resonating and that support is growing. Q: We have another candidate in the race right now who questions if the country is ready for a female president or a woman of color president. I mean, you're especially in that poll right now. You would just maybe address that issue. 224412 GABB> I think the country is ready. I think what people are looking for is a president who can unify our country, who will put the best interests of our country first, and who is qualified and ready to serve as commander in chief on day one. Q: Have you heard from Hillary Clinton at all? GABB>> No. Q: Are there any--- GABB>> neither directly or indirectly Q: What is your opinion on what is going on in Bolivia with Evo Morales, who was just ousted in what appears to be a U.S. backed coup? 224447 GABB>> I'm really gathering the facts and the information around this. I don't have the full picture or the full story. There are a lot of different narratives being brought forward on what has led to his announced resignation. And so, I need to get the facts first. Thank you. Q: Would you consider meeting with your Hong Kong as prime minister? And if you did? What would you be your ideological coach to bring peace to that region? 224515 GABB>> Yeah. Of course, we've got to have the courage to meet with leaders of other countries in the pursuit of peace and national security. Look, India and Pakistan have a long standing conflict with many issues that they need to resolve themselves. I think both leaders have recognized that it's only through those direct negotiations and diplomacy that they do that. And I think in the interest of peace, given that these two countries are nuclear armed nations, to do what we can to be able to support those peaceful negotiations and all of our best interests. Thank you. Q: If you if you don't win the Democratic nomination, would you consider a third party? 224559 GABB>> No. Anyone who says otherwise is not interested in the truth. I've been asked this question since probably I started running for president and every single time my answer has been the same. Yet for some reason, there are voices within our political sphere who continue to traffic in this rumor mongering, and I just think it's unfortunate because they know it's not true and they're using it as a way to try to undermine my campaign by making people suspicious that something else is going on. 224633 Nothing else is going on. I'm running for president. I plan on being the Democratic nominee that is best positioned to defeat Donald Trump. Q: You talked about how you don't have many field offices at a time when other campaigns are closing offices, slashing staff. The lean campaign strategy of your campaign right now. How you expected to get the nomination, the way you're running it now? 224656 GABB>> Well, you're seeing a lot of people who opened a lot of field offices now having to shut them down and some of those people are seeing their poll numbers dropping. My trend in polling is moving in the right direction. We are using---being very fiscally responsible with the hard earned resources people are donating to our campaign and using those dollars to reach voters directly. 224719 I give so much credit to our incredible volunteers who are pouring their heart and passion and time and resources into this campaign because they believe in our mission of putting service above self and the change that we are trying to bring about. I think there's nothing more powerful than that to help us win this election. Thank you. ### TVU 21 TULSI GABBARD LOS ANGELES TOWN HALL ABC UNI 111119 2020 [21:53:53] I saw this morning. That's plan for how council rooms. [21:54:51] Sorrows, exactly. [21:54:56] The first of 2000 third ship, that ship. Training is hard. Summer. From this. It's true. When we talk about service s. Charles? But actions speak louder than words. [21:56:20] Gratitude is good and it is important. [21:57:28] More Americans are falling victim to this opioid epidemic ravaging our country. [21:57:34] Veterans coming home with post-traumatic stress or chronic injuries that came from their service in combat. [21:57:42] When they go to the V.A., the V.A. is not allowed to prescribe them any other alternative, like medicinal marijuana. Instead of the highly addictive opioids that are too often doled out like candy. [21:57:57] These politicians who don't want to do what is necessary to make sure that our generation of post 9/11 veterans do not fall victim to the same thing. [21:58:09] Vietnam veterans faced with Agent Orange. [21:58:13] How many of you? [21:58:18] No Taliban were exposed to toxic burn pits while deployed at any point in the Middle East. All right. A few of you here. Toxic bird pigs are the agent orange of our generation veterans. [21:58:34] We were deployed to a camp in Iraq about 40 miles north of Baghdad. [21:58:38] It was a relatively large camp and housed people from all across all branches of service in the U.S. military, as well as other service members from NATO allied countries. It was a very large camp. There was a massive burn pit where everything was burned. Everything. [21:58:59] All forms of waste, everything you could possibly imagine, everything dumped into that purpose. [21:59:06] We had soldiers from our unit and other units whose place of duty every single day was to go there. And man, that burn pit. [21:59:16] Can you imagine the kinds of toxins that not not only they were exposed to, but that basically created this ever present cloud of crud, as we called it, over camp? This is what we read every single day as a result. We're seeing many of our brothers and sisters in uniform coming back off and having been exposed for year after year, deployment after deployment with very rare cancers, respiratory illnesses and other things that not only would not impact so many people of this age, unfortunately, rather than actually saying, yes, we recognize this combat related illness. [21:59:59] The V.A., we will take care, you know. They're asking for proof. [22:00:05] Vietnam veterans fought for decades, decades to get the care that they have earned through their service because of their exposure to Agent Orange. Many dying of cancer before ever getting that care or getting that recognition. We are seeing the very same thing happen now with politicians saying, well, the V.A. says we need proof. So we've got to figure out how to get that proof. [22:00:30] Another generation at risk of being left behind. [22:00:35] These are the things that are so frustrating to us because we hear the words and people are saying, thank you. But then we see these same politicians going and being the very same ones who will go and beat their war drums to send us on more unnecessary, wasteful wars to go and wage war. Counterproductive regime change, wars that had nothing to do with our interests in this country that actually undermined our national security. [22:01:05] And then once again, after doing so. When we come back, they are not there to take care of us. To meet Veterans Day is a reminder of what it means to honor those who serve. It's more a case of. [22:01:31] There are many people who pay the price for. I served in a field medical unit during that first deployment where every single day. My first task was to go through a list, name by name of every single American service member that had been injured in the previous 24 hours. Go through that list name by name. Recognizing that these weren't just names on a sheet of paper. This is my family. [22:02:01] These are my brothers and sisters. Behind every one of those names are husband or wife, mom or dad. Sons and daughters, brothers and sisters anxiously awaiting their return. Concern every single day for their safety and well-being. [22:02:20] Losing sleep at night, worrying that they may one day get that knock on the door. I wondered that. How many of our politicians were losing sleep at night thinking about them? [22:02:40] Thinking about those who are paying the price for the consequences, the consequences of the decisions that they're making. My guess was not very many. Not very many. We came home from that deployment. Leaving some of our brothers and sisters in uniform behind. Those who paid the ultimate price. Those whose families never got to say goodbye. [22:03:11] Believing that internal emptiness in their absence. [22:03:16] We came home, we landed at Hickam Air Force Base. It was early in the morning, the sun just about to rise, stepped off that plane. The air never smelled so sweet in my life, but all of our families were thick. The families were there. They had made handwritten signs and saying, welcome home. Looking forward to this day, we had all been looking forward to this day. We stood in formation there. [22:03:44] A few hundred of us at least listening to our commanding officer, finally giving that one last speech. [22:03:51] Waiting for the one word we'd all been anxious to hear dismissed. [22:04:00] At that point, the whole place went crazy. [22:04:05] All of us just running back into the arms of our families, back into the arms of our loved ones. [22:04:11] I went there. I first heard that my hope was my dad. I have never, ever seen my dad shed a tier in my life until that moment. [22:04:24] And as I gave him a hug, I felt his body was sobbing and he was crying, just tears of relief. [22:04:35] Until that moment, I really didn't realize the kind of stress and sacrifice and anxiety. [22:04:43] And our relatives and family members, our loved ones at home. Go through, you know, as we're deployed, we're focused on our mission, we're focused on getting that task completed, our families and loved ones who are left behind, holding down the fort, struggling and wondering and worrying for that day that we come home. [22:05:04] These are the people who are paying the price for the decisions that politicians are making about where and when our men and women in uniform are sent into harm's way. Our veterans, our service members deserve to have leaders in Congress deserve a commander in chief. Who is willing to make the kinds of sacrifices that our men and women in uniform make, who places that premium on putting service to the American people in our country above all else. [22:05:44] Leaders in Washington who are solely focused on putting the interests of the American people ahead of the military industrial complex, ahead of the interim report from. I came to the exhibition, I like our country and our freedoms and our principles enshrined in our Constitution. [22:06:09] Above all else, we deserve a commander in chief who takes that oath of office seriously to support and defend our Constitution. [22:06:27] And they really actually read it. [22:06:34] And understands what it says in Article One that provides Congress with the authority and responsibility. To deciding whether or not to declare war. [22:06:59] It's unfortunate that we even have to bring these things up, but this is where we are. [22:07:04] Fortunately, in this country where this is the standard that we the people need to set for our leaders. [22:07:13] That our leaders can look to the examples of so many great Americans who are literally living and breathing and embodying that principle of service. Look to their example for inspiration on how we can truly become a government of, by and for the people. [22:07:35] I'm running for president and offering to serve you to be that commander in chief. [22:07:41] This is a cowardly. [22:07:50] Those values to our White House, those values and principles of integrity, honor, respect and service to the presidency. [22:07:59] Leading a nation of Americans who stand united on those principles enshrined in our Constitution, respecting each other as fellow Americans, even as we approach many challenges differently, as we have different ideas on how we can solve the problems that we are facing today as we come from different political backgrounds or have different ideas. [22:08:27] No matter what. We respect each other as fellow Americans. [22:08:39] That same sense of unity. [22:08:42] If those of us who wore the uniform feel, whether at home or abroad, where we have people from all different backgrounds, different races and ethnicities, religions, orientations, people who represent the beautifully diverse fabric, Asian wearing the uniform focused as one unit on accomplishing that mission of service. [22:09:08] How divided cannot stand. Our country is terribly divided acid. [22:09:17] There are any challenges that we face if we have any hope of being able to move forward together towards that brighter future that promises peace and prosperity and justice and equality and opportunity. [22:09:33] It requires us to stand united, to stand together as Americans. [22:09:37] Inspired by that love of country, that love and care for each other and love and respect for our planet. To be able to accomplish that. [22:09:57] And by doing so and by doing so, what we realized what could be more patriotic than fighting to make sure that every single one of our brothers and sisters in this country get the quality health care that we need when we need them. Right now is what could be more patriotic than standing united to make sure every single person here has clean water to drink clean air every day prior to the many preserving and protecting the natural resources that we. [22:10:45] What could be more patriotic in standing up and fighting for reforms to our criminal justice system? [22:10:53] Secure immigration. [22:10:56] Your education is for making sure that at every single level in our government that policies are being passed that are keeping the well-being of our people at the forefront, getting rid of the corporate greed and the crony capitalism that has created. [22:11:23] This is at the heart of the change that we know we need to bring about, and it's days like this. On Veterans Day that serve as a great reminder of how we get back on. [22:11:36] This is a question that I get asked most often is, OK, that's fine, you know, everybody's got a lot of plans and a lot of big ideas. But how do you actually get it done? [22:11:47] We are living in a country that unfortunately is pitting one group of people against the other that people spend so much time screaming at each other rather than listening, understanding. So this provides us with a guide way, a path on how we can do so going forward, respecting each other for who we really are and respecting each other as fellow Americans so that we can begin this dialog so that we can come together and work together to achieve what we know we can and what we know we must. [22:12:29] Thank you all for being here. Today, I want to talk about the crisis. [22:12:56] Thank you. Thank you. [22:13:00] Thank you very much. Thank you. I want to make up for the time that we have and let's get to a. [22:13:14] Hello, everyone, with TLC. [22:13:16] My name is Running Crow, and I came here tonight because I genuinely believe in what you see here. You are saying you're not just saying words, your actions are backing it up. And I took a lot of flack from my friends in the LGBT community for coming and supporting you here because I'm a man first. I'm an American. [22:13:46] Go to a sexual orientation and vote for the candidate, I believe. Ready for. [22:13:58] You nailed it on The View. [22:14:09] And going on over know. All of us out there. I don't consider myself to be a Republican or a Democrat. I'm somewhere in between. And I think most Americans are fed up with politicians. [22:14:21] So we're going to go back to people that I know and my friends and family. And what can I say to them about your past with you? [22:14:31] I've being against LGBT, and I know you grew up with a family that didn't really understand us or support us. How do we know not only in words and actions that we have your support and just how can we support you as American citizens that want to see this finally heal? Because I don't know about you guys, but I'm exhausted waking up every day dealing with bullshit. [22:14:58] Thank you. Thank you for being here and thank you for all that you're bringing to the dialog we're having here. [22:15:06] But it sounds like the dialog you may be having in your own life with people who are around you. It is. Thank you. [22:15:15] I'm going to answer his question. Thank you, sir. Actions speak louder than words. I've been in Congress now for nearly seven years and I would. [22:15:27] Ask your friends and those who have concerns about previous positions that I held when I was very young to look at what my actions have been, how I have carried through on my commitment to fight for equality for every single American. I am a member of the Equality Caucus in Congress. [22:15:47] I have been a co-sponsor of and recently voted for the Equality Act that we recently passed out of the House of Representatives and have a whole host of different issues that I've worked with my colleagues on to continue to fight against and bring about an end to the kind of discrimination that unfortunately still takes place within our country against LGBTQ Americans, whether we're talking about at work or at school or even just trying to find a place to live. [22:16:17] When I speak, as I do very often about freedom and equality and justice, these are not just words that sound good. These are the the ideals that we strive forward to achieve as we make progress towards that more perfect union. I remain committed to fighting for them equality and justice for every American, regardless of race or gender or orientation or religion. And we'll continue to do so as president United States. [22:17:03] My name is Gary Alexander. I served in the U.S. Navy for 40 years, thanks to God. During it was a. For three years, soldiers say the soldiers really, really can't do the talking. [22:17:30] I got it. Okay. [22:17:33] My question. All right, entrants have a pretty good spring now. Some good stuff, huh? Some would get a little better. Right. [22:17:44] Why do they not help us? Would you get. Dr. Gray, Judy is in the market. You can't just go crazy. [22:18:00] Laughs Hey, hey. I appreciate your honesty and. So anyway, I went to the V.A.. [22:18:16] For other things up in Palo Alto, I was really intended as a I'm just moved out of here and. I asked him about the two. We don't do that. They'll pull you to that. They won't fix it. So my problem with that is gay veterans who don't have good teeth to eat properly. [22:18:38] Don't you love your health goes bad because you gave the perfect nutrition constrained foods. So they got the DNA. [22:18:50] You've got to do part of working, right? And they're going to choose your food preference. There may be more healthy is very attractive in the future. [22:19:00] Actually, I do think you would think more of. You want to ask that? No, definitely no. OK. Let me. [22:19:12] Your is your I think your concern is valid. [22:19:16] This is also a problem with the existing Medicare program that does not cover dental, and I think it goes to the heart of our health care system that for so long does not recognize how directly connected dental hygiene and dental care is to our overall health and well-being. This is something that we've seen, you know, a lot of our underserved communities in my home state of Hawaii, for example. [22:19:41] There's just no access even for kids to be able to go to the dentist or community health centers that don't have enough dental resources. We start to see many other layers of impacts on overall health that come from poor girl care and and no ability to get that dental care. So under my administration, we would expand that coverage both within Medicare as well as the DEA V.A. to include dental hearing and vision. [22:20:20] I really just want to say kind of this is an echo chamber, so I'm just going to throw another one then a little bit more. It is rare. Indeed is it is exceedingly rare for. [22:20:39] Refuse to refrain from engaging in partisan politics, as we all know, it is even more rare for a prominent Washington politician to. Actually make a sincere effort to bridge the gap. To combat the divisiveness. I really I think we all speaking for veterans in a number of things are like we all salute you in your sincere efforts to unify. Because we know, you know, the intentions can be there. How do you see the media's role of the mainstream as well as the alternative media? How do you see that the media's role in in backing you up in this effort to unify this country? [22:21:44] The corporate media, unfortunately, has. [22:21:52] Well, well, look, they're driven by profits. [22:21:55] They're driven by profit. [22:21:56] So you got a you know, a media that is supposed to be providing us with the news, but the news has become a part of the profit bearing portion of their business plan rather than separating the entertainment from the news. [22:22:13] So if you look at what drives up ratings, it's conflict. It's, you know, be the buzz words. [22:22:22] It is the soundbite that is all this stuff that unfortunately is part of the problem that is tearing us apart. [22:22:29] So we're not getting any back up in it. Unfortunately, you know, as far as doing media, alternative media, you know, depends on where you go. I think some are contributing to have a good discourse in dialog when you have some platforms where they're not afraid to bring people together who may have differing views and different opinions and actually have a good, good, good debate, healthy debate. [22:22:55] And maybe they that great agreed at the end of it. Maybe they don't. [22:22:58] But I think all of us feel better having maybe listened or being partly to that conversation. I think that's what we need. Maura. [22:23:06] So even as I get the hypocrisy just astounds me because, you know, I'll go and do interviews on Fox News. I'll do interviews on CNN and MSNBC. I'll do interviews on a whole variety of podcasts or YouTube shows. And I'll be criticized for going on Fox News or talking to Republicans are reaching out to independents. All right. But at the same time, for the same people in the media, the same people in the political establishment, they say, well, gosh, how are we going to win people over to support our ideas as Democrats? [22:23:45] How are we going to beat Donald Trump? [22:23:57] So I'll tell you. Yes, I'm running for president to defeat Donald Trump. But our mission is much bigger than that. [22:24:09] I think our mission is to bridge these divides, to bring people together so that we can do the people's work. This cannot be about partisan politics because it is the problems that have needed solving for so long have been public casualties of the hyper partisanship in Washington that are leaving people behind, struggling to live paycheck to paycheck. [22:24:36] Parents who can't afford the insulin for their kids, who have diabetes. People who are living on a limited income because they're retirees and relying on Social Security and can't afford to keep a roof over their head. There are so many decisions that we face that we hear politicians talking about over and over and over and over again. So what is actually being done to bridge that divide? Both the House and the Senate constantly changes hands, race a Democrat or Republican back and forth, back and forth. [22:25:05] The problem is you have leaders in both parties who are only looking to the next election rather than immediately after Election Day, saying, OK, let's come together, let's have a meeting. Leaders from both parties, chairmen from both parties, members of Congress saying, hey, how can we come together so that we can make sure that Social Security is sufficient in this rising cost of living that we are dealing with. How can we make sure that we are providing that quality health care for everybody? [22:25:33] There's a long laundry list of issues. We cannot do it if we are only focused on putting one team's interests ahead of the other. I want to tell a short story on on how I started to develop those relationships and find a way to do this outreach immediately. When after I got to let them as a member of Congress in 2012, I thought of the fact that I'm coming in as a freshman Democrat, the Republican majority being told, don't even try to pass this bill through Congress because Republicans won't let you do it. [22:26:08] So I was thinking, OK, there's no way I'm going to sit around and do nothing. I need to find a way to be able to get to know and to work with my colleagues in Congress. So I started thinking about what's what's the one thing that I know maybe not all, but most of us have in common and common language, universal language of food. [22:26:31] You guys not talking about the term. [22:26:38] So I made a call to my mother in Hawaii. She seemed to get a little macadamia nut toffee and I asked if she would make 434 boxes of me for every single member of Congress. [22:26:57] Small. No big deal, right? She said, oh, yeah. A great. [22:27:01] I think that's an awesome idea. I mean it. So I'm not done. I've got one more favor to ask. I asked if she would make another four big on four hundred thirty five bigger boxes in top before the staff of every member of Congress. [22:27:21] So even though. [22:27:25] And she paused just for a little like a conscious was thinking like a cabinet to buy this many more pounds of Maggie, they may not know this, but she's dead. I think that's that's a great idea. So she's in Hawaii. She starts chopping the map, not stirring two pots of toffee at one time, pouring it. My dad is the sole point and quality control guy. Every single man. Just to make sure it was okay. I was in D.C. while they were doing this handwriting, personal notes to every single one of my new colleagues. Learning more about them and the process and signing each one. Just saying, I look forward to serving alongside you. [22:28:04] What was it like to be. [22:28:08] Incredible to me was how quickly I got a response. Once we started delivering these little gifts of Aloha, look, we're on the House floor votes, which is the only time we're all in the same physical space together at the same time. [22:28:22] Republicans are breaking, serving his chairmen of powerful committees. People from other parts of the country or other committees, people I wouldn't normally get to know at all, thinking that long walk from the Republican side and Democratic side looking for me, finding the interests, say thank you. [22:28:41] Thank you. I think all the top I need more to take off to make that decision. [22:28:50] Most importantly, say tell me what's going on in your district in Hawaii. Tell me what your constituents are most concerned about. [22:29:00] I serve on this committee or that committee rep that a lot of experience or background in this area or that area. Let's figure out a way to work together. [22:29:09] That simple small gesture of reaching out with respect with. [22:29:17] I'm not saying, well, I'm only going to give it to these guys because I think they're cool or they'll agree with me or they're on my team. [22:29:23] No reaching out with respect to every single one of these elected leaders in Congress. Let us serve together. That laid a foundation that the Constitution needs to be adjusted to serve my constituents, to serve our country, to pass the very first bill that I introduced into Congress in a record period of time. Getting it passed through both houses and signed into law by President Obama in the first year that I was in office to Patrick for. [22:29:59] The have the different bills, for example, relating to Native Hawaiian in education, something that people said Republicans would never allow to be passed. But what my amendment came up for a vote and Republicans were told that they should vote against the Gabbert amendment to reauthorize the Native Hawaiian education, not because they had established those relationships with my colleagues that started with Tom. [22:30:24] Yes. They answered my phone calls. [22:30:29] They texted me or found me on the House floor of Stop in the halls to say, hey, they're telling us to vote against your amendment. Tell me, why should you vote for it? So I had the opportunity to share with them why this was important to kids not only in Hawaii, but across the country. [22:30:45] What happened as a result? We won that amendment, got to the border. [22:30:57] Issues, yes, it takes work. It requires us to be able to get to know each other. [22:31:04] But this is only possible, you know, fighting for equality. [22:31:08] Fighting for an end to discrimination for LGBTQ Americans. Fighting for criminal justice reform. Fighting for violence against the threat of climate change. These things require us to be able to build these bridges. Yes. As leaders in Congress, but also within our own communities to not be afraid to reach out to somebody and say, OK, where are you voting for Trump? Maybe I voted for Bernie Sanders. Let's have a conversation about. [22:31:39] An issue for how to move in our everyday lives, that we actually turn our words here tonight into action. This is the kind of leadership that I'll bring as president. We're giving you. [22:31:56] A lot of regular meetings at least once a month with Republican and Democrat leaders in the House and the Senate so that we can sit around the table and start to really communicate that. [22:32:17] Right. Last question. Yes. Hi, my name is gonna be from Carson. No, don't trip. [22:32:27] I'm not afraid to say I you say that I have a feeling you're not alone. Is an this I have is I a local president? You present from asking a widow. Nice to meet press employees. [22:32:39] I cite her international act in Las Vegas. Wonder because I just want to let you know, is they properly? Exactly what I for is that we as public servants just serve our community with a servant's heart. So I want to thank you for that. The best one you can also to this whole group is. What are you going to do to hold our federal officials accountable for? TVU 21 TULSI GABBARD LOS ANGELES TOWN HALL ABC UNI 111119 2020 P2 [22:33:08] Money that they squandered public sector is the service provider, community is first and property. [22:33:17] Patch first power federally. But what happens is we're not voting for federal officials or state officials accountable for the money that is sent and it barely makes it to list. And we as public servants have to provide your services on less money. It's how you do it. It's not even a bigger budget. The champagne tastes when I hit the water level in the part of the company. So how is that as public sector employees? [22:33:42] We don't have enough affordable housing. I don't care for the communities they serve. That is the problem. And those who produce affordable housing is not the same thing as low income. When you have that for making eighty thousand dollars a year and they can live in the same communities and we're talking about two households. You know, you've got people, public sector teachers and working in public sector, good government jobs service. But you can't afford. [22:34:13] They can't afford to live. I just met certain people who actually sat on an airplane. I have quite a few members who live outside of our county. L.A. County is simply expensive strap. Gas is like, oh, yes, I it's probably going to be driving a friendly car. But I didn't read it from a truck. OK. So that is why we go for it. But what exactly are you. You just want more public sector officials accountable because this is too much to keep your lead in the public sector to go private because it's jumping into to the barrel. [22:34:52] So I'd like to know what your are. Sure. Thank you. [22:35:00] If you're in the public sector, because these jobs across this public sector, they are public service jobs. If you were in it just for the money, you would have chosen a different path. Exactly. Look, it starts with leadership. It starts with what kind of culture of leadership we are setting. I talk a little bit earlier about it, whereas whereas all of our taxpayer dollars going in the context of foreign policy, that because of these constant and countless regime change wars we've been waging since 9/11 alone. [22:35:35] We as taxpayers have seen over six trillion dollars taken out of our pockets, taken out of our schools, taken out of our hospitals, taken out of our infrastructure needs, taken out of our communities to continue to go and wage these wasteful, counterproductive wars that actually are counter to and undermine our interests in this country. [22:35:56] Our national. [22:36:01] So just as we must hold the Department of Defense physically accountable and responsible. Same goes for each of our federal agencies going through and saying, hey, what's the objective of these programs and departments? What are we actually trying to accomplish? How does it serve the common good and well-being of the people in our country? And looking at the costs that go into these programs, if they're not effective, if they're not actually helping people get more affordable housing, then those dollars should not be wasted. [22:36:43] And I've seen this these these things go programs that are started maybe with good intention a long time ago and continue to go on and go on and get reauthorized without really taking that hard line, having that self audit of what exactly are we trying to accomplish and are we being the responsible custodians and taxpayer dollars that we as elected leaders and leaders in our federal government have to be. [22:37:13] One last question, yes, ma'am. Right. [22:37:17] Yes. Really? I'm coming. OK. Thank you. [22:37:24] Hi. I'm really happy that you're me again and see you in the White House. And I wanted to know what you will do to preserve Americans freedoms, because as a Californian, I'm extremely concerned that over the past 40 years, we've had the removal of both religious and medical exemptions or vaccines. [22:37:54] And they show extreme corruption at the CDC and we desperately need to have an eye over our own bodily autonomy preserved. I love seeing hundreds of. [22:38:13] I haven't seen that documentary yet. This is awesome. Thank you very much. [22:38:21] I'm concerned about this issue. I need to learn more about what's been going on here in California. I'm conflicted. [22:38:30] My honest answer to you on this, because I understand the need for the preservation and personal choice. [22:38:37] There are also public health concerns that that. So I have to do my work to be able to give you a solid answer like this. As with every other issue, I'm going to do my own homework before taking a position on. [22:39:01] So got so many more questions here. [22:39:04] We don't have a lot of time tonight. I wanted to allows for some time to be able to stop it just being great. Say hello to you guys with more. We have to leave here. I want to say thank you most of all for your making the choice to come here tonight and to be a part of the solution. I want to invite you to join our movement, to join our campaign. California is voting very early this year and March. [22:39:35] Therefore, I don't yet know the date on November 20. [22:39:48] We're going to make the most we're going to make the most of that opportunity. I think we are. We are about 5000 contributions short of the requirement in the December debates. The point being, our campaign is firmly in every single respect of an people power. Been. Guys, you know, we had a critical line from some of the media and political operatives has the last. We don't have a number of field offices or physical headquarters opened up in an interface. I'll tell you why. Because we're saving money and it comes with the Internet that we have virtual headquarters. [22:40:35] We have people's garages and living rooms and volunteers were working on in the back of their cars. [22:40:41] We are bringing our message directly to people, not waiting for them to come to us. [22:40:46] And I want to ask all of you to come here and to help us in this mission, because we got a lot of work to do. Thank you for.

TVU 21 TULSI GABBARD LOS ANGELES TOWN HALL ABC UNI 111119 2020 P2 Roughly 300 supporters filled a ballroom near LAX eager to meet Tulsi Gabbard tonight. (Quick note: this was my first ever Tulsi town hall, and I was really struck by how different this was from Harris world. Her family greets reporters with hugs. Staffers who are not press secretaries actually come up and talk to you in a very open way. No one said "off the record" once. It doesn't appear anyone is fearful of reporters. Even after they found out I was a Harris embed, they were openly critical of her, joking of her present fate, and her 'arrogance') Gabbard appeared to take the bait on a reporter question alluding to Kamala Harris' campaign strategy, saying of her own campaign: 10:46 "You're seeing a lot of people who opened a lot of field offices now having to shut them down. And some of those people are seeing their poll numbers drop My trend and polling is moving in the right direction. We are using-being very fiscally responsible with the hard earned resources people are donating to our campaign" Gabbard also reacted to the NH poll that has her at 6%: "Look our polls are moving in the right direction. So it's encouraging. I take the approach in our campaign of being the tortoise rather than the hare" She was also asked if she had heard from Hillary Clinton either directly or indirectly - and she said she had not. She also said she didn't have the full picture to comment on Bolivia's Evo Morales. NO NEWS BEYOND THIS POINT: Her sister says she changed her stump dramatically this Veterans Day to highlight veterans - kicking off her stump with how politicians often forget about those who served the day after veterans day: 9:54 I have found it to be equally frustrating to hear the speeches on Veterans Day and then the very next day see many of these same politicians turning their back on us, saying you know what there's just not enough, there's no enough resources available to be sure that we are providing a roof over the head of every single homeless veteran. There are politicians more interested in their own selfish interests.... [she goes off on this point for a long time] Gabbard wove in her own story, talking about the cost of serving by talking about her own father's reaction when she returned from serving: 10:04 I gave him a hug....I noticed he was sobbing...he was crying tears of relief. Until that moment, I really didn't realize the kind of stress ...that family's go through TVU 21 TULSI GABBARD LOS ANGELES TOWN HALL ABC UNI 111119 2020 P2 GAGGLE 224210 Q: What do you believe the biggest challenge is facing our country? 224214 GABB>> I think the hyperpartisanship and the divisiveness that's tearing our country apart poses the greatest challenge for us to be able to come together and solve problems and move forward together as a country. Q: If elected, what would be one of the first moves you make in regards to foreign policy? 224238 GABB>> The greatest national security and existential threat that we face in this country is New Cold War and Nuclear Arms race that's ensuing with increasing tensions between the United States and nuclear armed countries like Russia and china. So, one of the first things I'll do is call for a summit with these two countries to begin the work, the diplomatic work to de escalate these tensions, work out differences that we have, find areas of common interest so that we can make progress towards reducing the number of nuclear weapons in the world. 224311 Putting an end to this nuclear arms race and making it so that not the American people or people of any other nation have to live in fear of nuclear war. Q: NH poll has you at 6%. Reaction? 224330 GABB>> I'm grateful for the support that we're seeing growing in places like New Hampshire and in other states in the country. Look, our pools are moving in the right direction, so it's encouraging. I take the approach in our campaign of being the tortoise rather than the hare. And so we are continuing to move forward in delivering our message. And we're seeing how it's resonating and that support is growing. Q: We have another candidate in the race right now who questions if the country is ready for a female president or a woman of color president. I mean, you're especially in that poll right now. You would just maybe address that issue. 224412 GABB> I think the country is ready. I think what people are looking for is a president who can unify our country, who will put the best interests of our country first, and who is qualified and ready to serve as commander in chief on day one. Q: Have you heard from Hillary Clinton at all? GABB>> No. Q: Are there any--- GABB>> neither directly or indirectly Q: What is your opinion on what is going on in Bolivia with Evo Morales, who was just ousted in what appears to be a U.S. backed coup? 224447 GABB>> I'm really gathering the facts and the information around this. I don't have the full picture or the full story. There are a lot of different narratives being brought forward on what has led to his announced resignation. And so, I need to get the facts first. Thank you. Q: Would you consider meeting with your Hong Kong as prime minister? And if you did? What would you be your ideological coach to bring peace to that region? 224515 GABB>> Yeah. Of course, we've got to have the courage to meet with leaders of other countries in the pursuit of peace and national security. Look, India and Pakistan have a long standing conflict with many issues that they need to resolve themselves. I think both leaders have recognized that it's only through those direct negotiations and diplomacy that they do that. And I think in the interest of peace, given that these two countries are nuclear armed nations, to do what we can to be able to support those peaceful negotiations and all of our best interests. Thank you. Q: If you if you don't win the Democratic nomination, would you consider a third party? 224559 GABB>> No. Anyone who says otherwise is not interested in the truth. I've been asked this question since probably I started running for president and every single time my answer has been the same. Yet for some reason, there are voices within our political sphere who continue to traffic in this rumor mongering, and I just think it's unfortunate because they know it's not true and they're using it as a way to try to undermine my campaign by making people suspicious that something else is going on. 224633 Nothing else is going on. I'm running for president. I plan on being the Democratic nominee that is best positioned to defeat Donald Trump. Q: You talked about how you don't have many field offices at a time when other campaigns are closing offices, slashing staff. The lean campaign strategy of your campaign right now. How you expected to get the nomination, the way you're running it now? 224656 GABB>> Well, you're seeing a lot of people who opened a lot of field offices now having to shut them down and some of those people are seeing their poll numbers dropping. My trend in polling is moving in the right direction. We are using---being very fiscally responsible with the hard earned resources people are donating to our campaign and using those dollars to reach voters directly. 224719 I give so much credit to our incredible volunteers who are pouring their heart and passion and time and resources into this campaign because they believe in our mission of putting service above self and the change that we are trying to bring about. I think there's nothing more powerful than that to help us win this election. Thank you. ### TVU 21 TULSI GABBARD LOS ANGELES TOWN HALL ABC UNI 111119 2020 [21:53:53] I saw this morning. That's plan for how council rooms. [21:54:51] Sorrows, exactly. [21:54:56] The first of 2000 third ship, that ship. Training is hard. Summer. From this. It's true. When we talk about service s. Charles? But actions speak louder than words. [21:56:20] Gratitude is good and it is important. [21:57:28] More Americans are falling victim to this opioid epidemic ravaging our country. [21:57:34] Veterans coming home with post-traumatic stress or chronic injuries that came from their service in combat. [21:57:42] When they go to the V.A., the V.A. is not allowed to prescribe them any other alternative, like medicinal marijuana. Instead of the highly addictive opioids that are too often doled out like candy. [21:57:57] These politicians who don't want to do what is necessary to make sure that our generation of post 9/11 veterans do not fall victim to the same thing. [21:58:09] Vietnam veterans faced with Agent Orange. [21:58:13] How many of you? [21:58:18] No Taliban were exposed to toxic burn pits while deployed at any point in the Middle East. All right. A few of you here. Toxic bird pigs are the agent orange of our generation veterans. [21:58:34] We were deployed to a camp in Iraq about 40 miles north of Baghdad. [21:58:38] It was a relatively large camp and housed people from all across all branches of service in the U.S. military, as well as other service members from NATO allied countries. It was a very large camp. There was a massive burn pit where everything was burned. Everything. [21:58:59] All forms of waste, everything you could possibly imagine, everything dumped into that purpose. [21:59:06] We had soldiers from our unit and other units whose place of duty every single day was to go there. And man, that burn pit. [21:59:16] Can you imagine the kinds of toxins that not not only they were exposed to, but that basically created this ever present cloud of crud, as we called it, over camp? This is what we read every single day as a result. We're seeing many of our brothers and sisters in uniform coming back off and having been exposed for year after year, deployment after deployment with very rare cancers, respiratory illnesses and other things that not only would not impact so many people of this age, unfortunately, rather than actually saying, yes, we recognize this combat related illness. [21:59:59] The V.A., we will take care, you know. They're asking for proof. [22:00:05] Vietnam veterans fought for decades, decades to get the care that they have earned through their service because of their exposure to Agent Orange. Many dying of cancer before ever getting that care or getting that recognition. We are seeing the very same thing happen now with politicians saying, well, the V.A. says we need proof. So we've got to figure out how to get that proof. [22:00:30] Another generation at risk of being left behind. [22:00:35] These are the things that are so frustrating to us because we hear the words and people are saying, thank you. But then we see these same politicians going and being the very same ones who will go and beat their war drums to send us on more unnecessary, wasteful wars to go and wage war. Counterproductive regime change, wars that had nothing to do with our interests in this country that actually undermined our national security. [22:01:05] And then once again, after doing so. When we come back, they are not there to take care of us. To meet Veterans Day is a reminder of what it means to honor those who serve. It's more a case of. [22:01:31] There are many people who pay the price for. I served in a field medical unit during that first deployment where every single day. My first task was to go through a list, name by name of every single American service member that had been injured in the previous 24 hours. Go through that list name by name. Recognizing that these weren't just names on a sheet of paper. This is my family. [22:02:01] These are my brothers and sisters. Behind every one of those names are husband or wife, mom or dad. Sons and daughters, brothers and sisters anxiously awaiting their return. Concern every single day for their safety and well-being. [22:02:20] Losing sleep at night, worrying that they may one day get that knock on the door. I wondered that. How many of our politicians were losing sleep at night thinking about them? [22:02:40] Thinking about those who are paying the price for the consequences, the consequences of the decisions that they're making. My guess was not very many. Not very many. We came home from that deployment. Leaving some of our brothers and sisters in uniform behind. Those who paid the ultimate price. Those whose families never got to say goodbye. [22:03:11] Believing that internal emptiness in their absence. [22:03:16] We came home, we landed at Hickam Air Force Base. It was early in the morning, the sun just about to rise, stepped off that plane. The air never smelled so sweet in my life, but all of our families were thick. The families were there. They had made handwritten signs and saying, welcome home. Looking forward to this day, we had all been looking forward to this day. We stood in formation there. [22:03:44] A few hundred of us at least listening to our commanding officer, finally giving that one last speech. [22:03:51] Waiting for the one word we'd all been anxious to hear dismissed. [22:04:00] At that point, the whole place went crazy. [22:04:05] All of us just running back into the arms of our families, back into the arms of our loved ones. [22:04:11] I went there. I first heard that my hope was my dad. I have never, ever seen my dad shed a tier in my life until that moment. [22:04:24] And as I gave him a hug, I felt his body was sobbing and he was crying, just tears of relief. [22:04:35] Until that moment, I really didn't realize the kind of stress and sacrifice and anxiety. [22:04:43] And our relatives and family members, our loved ones at home. Go through, you know, as we're deployed, we're focused on our mission, we're focused on getting that task completed, our families and loved ones who are left behind, holding down the fort, struggling and wondering and worrying for that day that we come home. [22:05:04] These are the people who are paying the price for the decisions that politicians are making about where and when our men and women in uniform are sent into harm's way. Our veterans, our service members deserve to have leaders in Congress deserve a commander in chief. Who is willing to make the kinds of sacrifices that our men and women in uniform make, who places that premium on putting service to the American people in our country above all else. [22:05:44] Leaders in Washington who are solely focused on putting the interests of the American people ahead of the military industrial complex, ahead of the interim report from. I came to the exhibition, I like our country and our freedoms and our principles enshrined in our Constitution. [22:06:09] Above all else, we deserve a commander in chief who takes that oath of office seriously to support and defend our Constitution. [22:06:27] And they really actually read it. [22:06:34] And understands what it says in Article One that provides Congress with the authority and responsibility. To deciding whether or not to declare war. [22:06:59] It's unfortunate that we even have to bring these things up, but this is where we are. [22:07:04] Fortunately, in this country where this is the standard that we the people need to set for our leaders. [22:07:13] That our leaders can look to the examples of so many great Americans who are literally living and breathing and embodying that principle of service. Look to their example for inspiration on how we can truly become a government of, by and for the people. [22:07:35] I'm running for president and offering to serve you to be that commander in chief. [22:07:41] This is a cowardly. [22:07:50] Those values to our White House, those values and principles of integrity, honor, respect and service to the presidency. [22:07:59] Leading a nation of Americans who stand united on those principles enshrined in our Constitution, respecting each other as fellow Americans, even as we approach many challenges differently, as we have different ideas on how we can solve the problems that we are facing today as we come from different political backgrounds or have different ideas. [22:08:27] No matter what. We respect each other as fellow Americans. [22:08:39] That same sense of unity. [22:08:42] If those of us who wore the uniform feel, whether at home or abroad, where we have people from all different backgrounds, different races and ethnicities, religions, orientations, people who represent the beautifully diverse fabric, Asian wearing the uniform focused as one unit on accomplishing that mission of service. [22:09:08] How divided cannot stand. Our country is terribly divided acid. [22:09:17] There are any challenges that we face if we have any hope of being able to move forward together towards that brighter future that promises peace and prosperity and justice and equality and opportunity. [22:09:33] It requires us to stand united, to stand together as Americans. [22:09:37] Inspired by that love of country, that love and care for each other and love and respect for our planet. To be able to accomplish that. [22:09:57] And by doing so and by doing so, what we realized what could be more patriotic than fighting to make sure that every single one of our brothers and sisters in this country get the quality health care that we need when we need them. Right now is what could be more patriotic than standing united to make sure every single person here has clean water to drink clean air every day prior to the many preserving and protecting the natural resources that we. [22:10:45] What could be more patriotic in standing up and fighting for reforms to our criminal justice system? [22:10:53] Secure immigration. [22:10:56] Your education is for making sure that at every single level in our government that policies are being passed that are keeping the well-being of our people at the forefront, getting rid of the corporate greed and the crony capitalism that has created. [22:11:23] This is at the heart of the change that we know we need to bring about, and it's days like this. On Veterans Day that serve as a great reminder of how we get back on. [22:11:36] This is a question that I get asked most often is, OK, that's fine, you know, everybody's got a lot of plans and a lot of big ideas. But how do you actually get it done? [22:11:47] We are living in a country that unfortunately is pitting one group of people against the other that people spend so much time screaming at each other rather than listening, understanding. So this provides us with a guide way, a path on how we can do so going forward, respecting each other for who we really are and respecting each other as fellow Americans so that we can begin this dialog so that we can come together and work together to achieve what we know we can and what we know we must. [22:12:29] Thank you all for being here. Today, I want to talk about the crisis. [22:12:56] Thank you. Thank you. [22:13:00] Thank you very much. Thank you. I want to make up for the time that we have and let's get to a. [22:13:14] Hello, everyone, with TLC. [22:13:16] My name is Running Crow, and I came here tonight because I genuinely believe in what you see here. You are saying you're not just saying words, your actions are backing it up. And I took a lot of flack from my friends in the LGBT community for coming and supporting you here because I'm a man first. I'm an American. [22:13:46] Go to a sexual orientation and vote for the candidate, I believe. Ready for. [22:13:58] You nailed it on The View. [22:14:09] And going on over know. All of us out there. I don't consider myself to be a Republican or a Democrat. I'm somewhere in between. And I think most Americans are fed up with politicians. [22:14:21] So we're going to go back to people that I know and my friends and family. And what can I say to them about your past with you? [22:14:31] I've being against LGBT, and I know you grew up with a family that didn't really understand us or support us. How do we know not only in words and actions that we have your support and just how can we support you as American citizens that want to see this finally heal? Because I don't know about you guys, but I'm exhausted waking up every day dealing with bullshit. [22:14:58] Thank you. Thank you for being here and thank you for all that you're bringing to the dialog we're having here. [22:15:06] But it sounds like the dialog you may be having in your own life with people who are around you. It is. Thank you. [22:15:15] I'm going to answer his question. Thank you, sir. Actions speak louder than words. I've been in Congress now for nearly seven years and I would. [22:15:27] Ask your friends and those who have concerns about previous positions that I held when I was very young to look at what my actions have been, how I have carried through on my commitment to fight for equality for every single American. I am a member of the Equality Caucus in Congress. [22:15:47] I have been a co-sponsor of and recently voted for the Equality Act that we recently passed out of the House of Representatives and have a whole host of different issues that I've worked with my colleagues on to continue to fight against and bring about an end to the kind of discrimination that unfortunately still takes place within our country against LGBTQ Americans, whether we're talking about at work or at school or even just trying to find a place to live. [22:16:17] When I speak, as I do very often about freedom and equality and justice, these are not just words that sound good. These are the the ideals that we strive forward to achieve as we make progress towards that more perfect union. I remain committed to fighting for them equality and justice for every American, regardless of race or gender or orientation or religion. And we'll continue to do so as president United States. [22:17:03] My name is Gary Alexander. I served in the U.S. Navy for 40 years, thanks to God. During it was a. For three years, soldiers say the soldiers really, really can't do the talking. [22:17:30] I got it. Okay. [22:17:33] My question. All right, entrants have a pretty good spring now. Some good stuff, huh? Some would get a little better. Right. [22:17:44] Why do they not help us? Would you get. Dr. Gray, Judy is in the market. You can't just go crazy. [22:18:00] Laughs Hey, hey. I appreciate your honesty and. So anyway, I went to the V.A.. [22:18:16] For other things up in Palo Alto, I was really intended as a I'm just moved out of here and. I asked him about the two. We don't do that. They'll pull you to that. They won't fix it. So my problem with that is gay veterans who don't have good teeth to eat properly. [22:18:38] Don't you love your health goes bad because you gave the perfect nutrition constrained foods. So they got the DNA. [22:18:50] You've got to do part of working, right? And they're going to choose your food preference. There may be more healthy is very attractive in the future. [22:19:00] Actually, I do think you would think more of. You want to ask that? No, definitely no. OK. Let me. [22:19:12] Your is your I think your concern is valid. [22:19:16] This is also a problem with the existing Medicare program that does not cover dental, and I think it goes to the heart of our health care system that for so long does not recognize how directly connected dental hygiene and dental care is to our overall health and well-being. This is something that we've seen, you know, a lot of our underserved communities in my home state of Hawaii, for example. [22:19:41] There's just no access even for kids to be able to go to the dentist or community health centers that don't have enough dental resources. We start to see many other layers of impacts on overall health that come from poor girl care and and no ability to get that dental care. So under my administration, we would expand that coverage both within Medicare as well as the DEA V.A. to include dental hearing and vision. [22:20:20] I really just want to say kind of this is an echo chamber, so I'm just going to throw another one then a little bit more. It is rare. Indeed is it is exceedingly rare for. [22:20:39] Refuse to refrain from engaging in partisan politics, as we all know, it is even more rare for a prominent Washington politician to. Actually make a sincere effort to bridge the gap. To combat the divisiveness. I really I think we all speaking for veterans in a number of things are like we all salute you in your sincere efforts to unify. Because we know, you know, the intentions can be there. How do you see the media's role of the mainstream as well as the alternative media? How do you see that the media's role in in backing you up in this effort to unify this country? [22:21:44] The corporate media, unfortunately, has. [22:21:52] Well, well, look, they're driven by profits. [22:21:55] They're driven by profit. [22:21:56] So you got a you know, a media that is supposed to be providing us with the news, but the news has become a part of the profit bearing portion of their business plan rather than separating the entertainment from the news. [22:22:13] So if you look at what drives up ratings, it's conflict. It's, you know, be the buzz words. [22:22:22] It is the soundbite that is all this stuff that unfortunately is part of the problem that is tearing us apart. [22:22:29] So we're not getting any back up in it. Unfortunately, you know, as far as doing media, alternative media, you know, depends on where you go. I think some are contributing to have a good discourse in dialog when you have some platforms where they're not afraid to bring people together who may have differing views and different opinions and actually have a good, good, good debate, healthy debate. [22:22:55] And maybe they that great agreed at the end of it. Maybe they don't. [22:22:58] But I think all of us feel better having maybe listened or being partly to that conversation. I think that's what we need. Maura. [22:23:06] So even as I get the hypocrisy just astounds me because, you know, I'll go and do interviews on Fox News. I'll do interviews on CNN and MSNBC. I'll do interviews on a whole variety of podcasts or YouTube shows. And I'll be criticized for going on Fox News or talking to Republicans are reaching out to independents. All right. But at the same time, for the same people in the media, the same people in the political establishment, they say, well, gosh, how are we going to win people over to support our ideas as Democrats? [22:23:45] How are we going to beat Donald Trump? [22:23:57] So I'll tell you. Yes, I'm running for president to defeat Donald Trump. But our mission is much bigger than that. [22:24:09] I think our mission is to bridge these divides, to bring people together so that we can do the people's work. This cannot be about partisan politics because it is the problems that have needed solving for so long have been public casualties of the hyper partisanship in Washington that are leaving people behind, struggling to live paycheck to paycheck. [22:24:36] Parents who can't afford the insulin for their kids, who have diabetes. People who are living on a limited income because they're retirees and relying on Social Security and can't afford to keep a roof over their head. There are so many decisions that we face that we hear politicians talking about over and over and over and over again. So what is actually being done to bridge that divide? Both the House and the Senate constantly changes hands, race a Democrat or Republican back and forth, back and forth. [22:25:05] The problem is you have leaders in both parties who are only looking to the next election rather than immediately after Election Day, saying, OK, let's come together, let's have a meeting. Leaders from both parties, chairmen from both parties, members of Congress saying, hey, how can we come together so that we can make sure that Social Security is sufficient in this rising cost of living that we are dealing with. How can we make sure that we are providing that quality health care for everybody? [22:25:33] There's a long laundry list of issues. We cannot do it if we are only focused on putting one team's interests ahead of the other. I want to tell a short story on on how I started to develop those relationships and find a way to do this outreach immediately. When after I got to let them as a member of Congress in 2012, I thought of the fact that I'm coming in as a freshman Democrat, the Republican majority being told, don't even try to pass this bill through Congress because Republicans won't let you do it. [22:26:08] So I was thinking, OK, there's no way I'm going to sit around and do nothing. I need to find a way to be able to get to know and to work with my colleagues in Congress. So I started thinking about what's what's the one thing that I know maybe not all, but most of us have in common and common language, universal language of food. [22:26:31] You guys not talking about the term. [22:26:38] So I made a call to my mother in Hawaii. She seemed to get a little macadamia nut toffee and I asked if she would make 434 boxes of me for every single member of Congress. [22:26:57] Small. No big deal, right? She said, oh, yeah. A great. [22:27:01] I think that's an awesome idea. I mean it. So I'm not done. I've got one more favor to ask. I asked if she would make another four big on four hundred thirty five bigger boxes in top before the staff of every member of Congress. [22:27:21] So even though. [22:27:25] And she paused just for a little like a conscious was thinking like a cabinet to buy this many more pounds of Maggie, they may not know this, but she's dead. I think that's that's a great idea. So she's in Hawaii. She starts chopping the map, not stirring two pots of toffee at one time, pouring it. My dad is the sole point and quality control guy. Every single man. Just to make sure it was okay. I was in D.C. while they were doing this handwriting, personal notes to every single one of my new colleagues. Learning more about them and the process and signing each one. Just saying, I look forward to serving alongside you. [22:28:04] What was it like to be. [22:28:08] Incredible to me was how quickly I got a response. Once we started delivering these little gifts of Aloha, look, we're on the House floor votes, which is the only time we're all in the same physical space together at the same time. [22:28:22] Republicans are breaking, serving his chairmen of powerful committees. People from other parts of the country or other committees, people I wouldn't normally get to know at all, thinking that long walk from the Republican side and Democratic side looking for me, finding the interests, say thank you. [22:28:41] Thank you. I think all the top I need more to take off to make that decision. [22:28:50] Most importantly, say tell me what's going on in your district in Hawaii. Tell me what your constituents are most concerned about. [22:29:00] I serve on this committee or that committee rep that a lot of experience or background in this area or that area. Let's figure out a way to work together. [22:29:09] That simple small gesture of reaching out with respect with. [22:29:17] I'm not saying, well, I'm only going to give it to these guys because I think they're cool or they'll agree with me or they're on my team. [22:29:23] No reaching out with respect to every single one of these elected leaders in Congress. Let us serve together. That laid a foundation that the Constitution needs to be adjusted to serve my constituents, to serve our country, to pass the very first bill that I introduced into Congress in a record period of time. Getting it passed through both houses and signed into law by President Obama in the first year that I was in office to Patrick for. [22:29:59] The have the different bills, for example, relating to Native Hawaiian in education, something that people said Republicans would never allow to be passed. But what my amendment came up for a vote and Republicans were told that they should vote against the Gabbert amendment to reauthorize the Native Hawaiian education, not because they had established those relationships with my colleagues that started with Tom. [22:30:24] Yes. They answered my phone calls. [22:30:29] They texted me or found me on the House floor of Stop in the halls to say, hey, they're telling us to vote against your amendment. Tell me, why should you vote for it? So I had the opportunity to share with them why this was important to kids not only in Hawaii, but across the country. [22:30:45] What happened as a result? We won that amendment, got to the border. [22:30:57] Issues, yes, it takes work. It requires us to be able to get to know each other. [22:31:04] But this is only possible, you know, fighting for equality. [22:31:08] Fighting for an end to discrimination for LGBTQ Americans. Fighting for criminal justice reform. Fighting for violence against the threat of climate change. These things require us to be able to build these bridges. Yes. As leaders in Congress, but also within our own communities to not be afraid to reach out to somebody and say, OK, where are you voting for Trump? Maybe I voted for Bernie Sanders. Let's have a conversation about. [22:31:39] An issue for how to move in our everyday lives, that we actually turn our words here tonight into action. This is the kind of leadership that I'll bring as president. We're giving you. [22:31:56] A lot of regular meetings at least once a month with Republican and Democrat leaders in the House and the Senate so that we can sit around the table and start to really communicate that. [22:32:17] Right. Last question. Yes. Hi, my name is gonna be from Carson. No, don't trip. [22:32:27] I'm not afraid to say I you say that I have a feeling you're not alone. Is an this I have is I a local president? You present from asking a widow. Nice to meet press employees. [22:32:39] I cite her international act in Las Vegas. Wonder because I just want to let you know, is they properly? Exactly what I for is that we as public servants just serve our community with a servant's heart. So I want to thank you for that. The best one you can also to this whole group is. What are you going to do to hold our federal officials accountable for? TVU 21 TULSI GABBARD LOS ANGELES TOWN HALL ABC UNI 111119 2020 P2 [22:33:08] Money that they squandered public sector is the service provider, community is first and property. [22:33:17] Patch first power federally. But what happens is we're not voting for federal officials or state officials accountable for the money that is sent and it barely makes it to list. And we as public servants have to provide your services on less money. It's how you do it. It's not even a bigger budget. The champagne tastes when I hit the water level in the part of the company. So how is that as public sector employees? [22:33:42] We don't have enough affordable housing. I don't care for the communities they serve. That is the problem. And those who produce affordable housing is not the same thing as low income. When you have that for making eighty thousand dollars a year and they can live in the same communities and we're talking about two households. You know, you've got people, public sector teachers and working in public sector, good government jobs service. But you can't afford. [22:34:13] They can't afford to live. I just met certain people who actually sat on an airplane. I have quite a few members who live outside of our county. L.A. County is simply expensive strap. Gas is like, oh, yes, I it's probably going to be driving a friendly car. But I didn't read it from a truck. OK. So that is why we go for it. But what exactly are you. You just want more public sector officials accountable because this is too much to keep your lead in the public sector to go private because it's jumping into to the barrel. [22:34:52] So I'd like to know what your are. Sure. Thank you. [22:35:00] If you're in the public sector, because these jobs across this public sector, they are public service jobs. If you were in it just for the money, you would have chosen a different path. Exactly. Look, it starts with leadership. It starts with what kind of culture of leadership we are setting. I talk a little bit earlier about it, whereas whereas all of our taxpayer dollars going in the context of foreign policy, that because of these constant and countless regime change wars we've been waging since 9/11 alone. [22:35:35] We as taxpayers have seen over six trillion dollars taken out of our pockets, taken out of our schools, taken out of our hospitals, taken out of our infrastructure needs, taken out of our communities to continue to go and wage these wasteful, counterproductive wars that actually are counter to and undermine our interests in this country. [22:35:56] Our national. [22:36:01] So just as we must hold the Department of Defense physically accountable and responsible. Same goes for each of our federal agencies going through and saying, hey, what's the objective of these programs and departments? What are we actually trying to accomplish? How does it serve the common good and well-being of the people in our country? And looking at the costs that go into these programs, if they're not effective, if they're not actually helping people get more affordable housing, then those dollars should not be wasted. [22:36:43] And I've seen this these these things go programs that are started maybe with good intention a long time ago and continue to go on and go on and get reauthorized without really taking that hard line, having that self audit of what exactly are we trying to accomplish and are we being the responsible custodians and taxpayer dollars that we as elected leaders and leaders in our federal government have to be. [22:37:13] One last question, yes, ma'am. Right. [22:37:17] Yes. Really? I'm coming. OK. Thank you. [22:37:24] Hi. I'm really happy that you're me again and see you in the White House. And I wanted to know what you will do to preserve Americans freedoms, because as a Californian, I'm extremely concerned that over the past 40 years, we've had the removal of both religious and medical exemptions or vaccines. [22:37:54] And they show extreme corruption at the CDC and we desperately need to have an eye over our own bodily autonomy preserved. I love seeing hundreds of. [22:38:13] I haven't seen that documentary yet. This is awesome. Thank you very much. [22:38:21] I'm concerned about this issue. I need to learn more about what's been going on here in California. I'm conflicted. [22:38:30] My honest answer to you on this, because I understand the need for the preservation and personal choice. [22:38:37] There are also public health concerns that that. So I have to do my work to be able to give you a solid answer like this. As with every other issue, I'm going to do my own homework before taking a position on. [22:39:01] So got so many more questions here. [22:39:04] We don't have a lot of time tonight. I wanted to allows for some time to be able to stop it just being great. Say hello to you guys with more. We have to leave here. I want to say thank you most of all for your making the choice to come here tonight and to be a part of the solution. I want to invite you to join our movement, to join our campaign. California is voting very early this year and March. [22:39:35] Therefore, I don't yet know the date on November 20. [22:39:48] We're going to make the most we're going to make the most of that opportunity. I think we are. We are about 5000 contributions short of the requirement in the December debates. The point being, our campaign is firmly in every single respect of an people power. Been. Guys, you know, we had a critical line from some of the media and political operatives has the last. We don't have a number of field offices or physical headquarters opened up in an interface. I'll tell you why. Because we're saving money and it comes with the Internet that we have virtual headquarters. [22:40:35] We have people's garages and living rooms and volunteers were working on in the back of their cars. [22:40:41] We are bringing our message directly to people, not waiting for them to come to us. [22:40:46] And I want to ask all of you to come here and to help us in this mission, because we got a lot of work to do. Thank you for.

Senate Judiciary Committee holds a hearing with Robert Mueller, director of the FBI, Patrick Kennedy the Under Secretary of State for Management, and David Heyman Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security for Policy SEN. LEAHY: Good morning. I think -- is this on yet? Before we start on this hearing, every one of us has to be moved by what we have seen on television, or people we've talked with during the past couple weeks, in Haiti. And if I could, with the indulgence of my colleagues -- wearing another hat that I have as chair of the Appropriations subcommittee that handles our foreign aid, I've been particularly interested in what has been happening. I've had talks with people on the ground in Haiti, and others have gone down there. I want to begin by thanking President Obama, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, USAID Administrator Shah, General Fraser of the U.S. Southern Command, all the hardworking people here and on the ground in Haiti for their efforts to save lives in the aftermath of this devastating earthquake. A number of states -- I know California sent search-and-rescue; Virginia did, and others; my own little State of Vermont is sing down a medical team today. Recovering from this disaster is a daunting challenge for the people of Haiti. Vermonters, and all Americans, have opened their hearts. They're sharing generously. We will continue to do so. Any one of us, just as human beings, have to be moved by what we have been seeing down there. Now, to the subject of this important hearing, a terrorist intent on detonating an explosive was able to board a plane with hundreds of passengers headed for Detroit, Michigan on Christmas Day. After Congress passed major legislation in 2004 to implement the 9/11 Commission's recommations, and after the country invested billions of dollars to upgrade security systems and to reorganize our intelligence agencies, the near-tragedy on Christmas Day compels us to ask what went wrong and what additional reforms are needed. The administration responded quickly; it has already conducted a preliminary review; and the president has candidly identified problems. He spoke directly to the American people about the incident, the threat, and the actions that are necessary to prevent future attempted attacks. He did not offer excuses, and said they've taken direct, responsible action to provide additional security measures. And I know there will be some hard questions at this hearing. We'll want to know how and why we failed to successfully detect and prevent this attempted attack. How did someone who paid for an airline ticket with cash, who boarded without luggage for a winter trip to Detroit, whose father had come to U.S. officials a week before to warn that his son had become radicalized -- how was he able to board a flight to the United States with a valid visa? Just as we now know the horrific deadly attacks on 9/11 could have been prevented, should have been prevented, the recent White House review found the government had sufficient information to have uncovered and potentially disrupted the December 25th attack. Our intelligence agencies did not adequately integrate and analyze information. They could have prevented this attempt. The president called it "a systemic failure," and he's right that it's unacceptable. Just as we failed in 9/11 -- failed here. Now, I would hope that all senators here ask whatever questions they feel they should, but I hope we proceed with a shared purpose of making America safer. No one's been angrier or more determined than the president. He did not respond with a denial and obfuscation, but instead came forward to identify failures and correct them. So let's not be a setting where we're looking for partisan advantage. We're all Americans. We're all in this together. Every one of us, as members, and virtually everybody in this room fly often. Passions in politics should not obscure or distract us. We should all do our part. As the president said recently -- announced his immediate actions he'd ordered. Instead of giving in to cynicism and division, let's move forward with the confidence and optimism, unity that define us as a people. For now is not a time for partisanship; it's a time for citizenship; time to come together, and work together with the seriousness of purpose that our national security demands. I was here after 9/11. Saw Republicans and Democrats come together to work together, with the president, to find out what went wrong and to make sure it didn't happen again. That's what we need to do today. Our witnesses today are public officials. They are not adversaries. They each share with us a common purpose -- as the president said, to prevail in this fight; to protect our country; and pass it, safer and stronger, to the next generation. In the aftermath of the Christmas Day plot, as well as the Fort Hood tragedy, it can be tempting to forget that it's always easier to connect the dots in hindsight. It was not our intelligence agencies that first raised the alarm about the suspect who tried to blow up the Northwest Airlines flight, it was the suspects own father, a Nigerian, who turned him in. Our response to the incident has to be swift, but also thoughtful. It may be tempting to take reflexive actions, but to do so will only result in the unnecessary denial of visas to legitimate travelers, and the flooding of our watchlists, such that they become ineffective tools in identifying those who would do us harm. We want to stop real people who may do us harm, not 8-year-old children. A one-size-fits-all mentality will only ensure that we will miss different threats in the future. Can't hunker down and hide behind walls of fear and mistrust. We should not let our response to the incident provide another recruiting tool for terrorists, and we have to be smarter than that. And finally this morning, the inspector general released a report a few minutes ago detailing the misuse of so-called "exigent letters" by the FBI to obtain information about U.S. persons. The report describes how the FBI used these exigent letters, without proper authorization, to collect thousands of phone records, including in instances where not-exigent conditions existed. The report also details how the FBI then compounded the misconduct by trying to issue national security letters after the fact. This was not a matter of technical violations. If one of us did something like this, we'd have to answer to it. This was authorized at high levels within the FBI and continued for years. I understand Director Mueller of the FBI has worked to correct these abuses, but this report is a sobering reminder of the significant abuse of this broad authority. No one is above the law -- no senator and no member of the FBI, and there has to be accountability for what happened here. Senator Sessions. SEN. JEFF SESSIONS (R-AL): Thank you. And I would join with you in your comments about the tragedy in Haiti, and hope that we, in a unified effort in Congress, can do all possible to assist in that tragedy. It was on Christmas Day that America was reminded that the war on terror is still being waged and that our enemies will stop at nothing in their efforts to destroy our country. But for the bravery of passengers and crew aboard Northwest Flight 253, and a defect in the bomb, close to 300 innocent people could have been murdered. Make no mistake, this was another act of terrorism, another act of war. And now it appears clear that our intelligence officials had gathered enough information to stop Mr. Abdulmutallab from boarding the plane. In reality, it was our enemy's poor bombmaking skills, luck, and the courage of passengers and crew that saved that flight. But as before, the problem arose from a lack of action on available intelligence. Was it a hesitation to interfere in one person's travel plans -- policies arising from that; or a failure to connect the dots; an individual failure somewhere; or a systemic failure? Perhaps all. It's clear that eight years after 9/11 there are still holes in our counterterrorism system. Al Qaeda has openly declared war on our country. They have attacked us and are still attacking us. This administration cannot wish that reality away, and I don't think they int to. The threat cannot be negotiated away. What we must do is acknowledge this reality and work to both interrupt the attack and destroy the organizations that are at war with us. It is a different kind of war, but a real war nonetheless. And this hearing can help us get insight into the failures that occurred, and what we need to do in the future. But until the administration and Congress fully acknowledge the reality of the enemy, I don't think we'll be fully effective. The work of the 9/11 Commission unified our nation behind the idea that preventing acts of war by traditional law enforcement techniques would not be effective. They declared we should treat this danger with a new understanding of war. The sad truth is that the administration ts to view this conflict, wrongly, as a law enforcement matter now, retreating from that national decision I thought we reached. Now we have a policy that presumes captured terrorists here and abroad will receive a trial in our civilian courts, that they will be given Miranda warnings, given court appointed attorneys not subject to interrogations, but have rights to repeated court appearances and speedy trials, no matter that they may possess critical information concerning further deadly attacks that might be planned. This is what civilian trials mean, this is how they are conducted. And as Attorney General Holder testified, civilian trials are not required in these cases by the law or the Constitution. And I would note that in no war, to my knowledge, no nation has ever allowed the enemy to use their own courts to further the enemies efforts to destroy that nation. This is not a case about whether there were red flags. The terrorist's father personally went to the U.S. Embassy to raise a red flag. The would be attacker bought his plane ticket with cash, he checked no luggage, he reportedly was known to have communicated with terrorists in Yemen, intelligence agencies reportedly intercepted messages referring to the Nigerian, referring to him -- that's in the press. So this case is one where our own good intelligence gatherers got information, people at risk in the four corners of the globe got valuable information. So we have preliminary information that suggests that the authorities were aware of this terrorist and had cause, ample cause, to stop and question him and deny him the right to board that plane. So we cannot defeat al Qaeda through half steps, Miranda warnings, minimization procedures and inspector general reports. This is not the time for the government to erect new barriers between the intelligence and law enforcement agencies. We understood that was a mistake before, nor is it time to add more bureaucratic red tape, new reporting requirements or unnecessary safeguards which do nothing more than hinder the ability to thwart the next shooting, the next bombing, the next 9/11. We should use every lawful power, lawful power, and tool we have to protect this nation. This war was declared by al Qaeda and its terrorist allies long before September 11th, before Guantanamo Bay. Guantanamo Bay did not cause these terrorists attacks. Long before we invaded Afghanistan, before the drone attacks and before the fall of Saddam Hussein, this is a war that began to take shape in the early 1990s when al Qaeda attacked various U.S. facilities here and abroad. Unfortunately, it is a war which will continue, I have to say, for some time, for some years and it's imperative that our intelligence and counterterrorism professionals have what they need on the front lines to disrupt the next terror plot and thwart an enemy at every turn. Rather than putting more bureaucratic hurdles on our intelligence agencies through a weakening of the Patriot Act, we should be looking to cut the red tape, strengthen their ability to stop the next airline bomber promptly before he gets a visa or is allowed to board a plane. We need to get this right and appreciate the willingness of all the administrative witnesses -- I appreciate the willingness of all the administrative witnesses to testify. I especially appreciate the presence of Director Mueller, who took a hard look eight years ago at some of the warning signs that were missed before September 11th, and made aggressive reforms, good reforms, in the FBI. Through his testimony and experience, the testimony of Mr. Kennedy and Heyman, I hope we'll be able to come to a consensus that we must give our investigators the tools and the flexibilities they need to prevent further attacks on our country. Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and I'm glad we're having the hearing. I know the Homeland Security Committee's, I think also having one and I believe it will help the American people feel that we are responding to the concerns that I know they're feeling. SEN. LEAHY: Thank you. And I think the American people also expect us to work together on responding to these issues. I'm going to ask each witness -- I know you have long statement -- the whole statement will be placed into the record. I'm going to ask you to limit your time to the time that's been suggested to you because as you can see, we have a lot of Senators, I want to give every Senator opportunity to ask the questions they want. We'll begin with Robert Mueller, the sixth director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Prior to that, he had a long and distinguished record with the Department of Justice, including serving as the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of California. Please go ahead. MR. MUELLER: Thank you Mr. Chairman, Senators, Senator Sessions in particular, I'm pleased to be here today. And before I begin I ask that you Mr. Chairman, I would like to take moment on behalf of the men and women of the FBI to ext our condolences and support to the people of Haiti and to all of those who have lost family and fris from the devastating earthquake last week. The FBI is providing assistance to the rescue effort but we are also focused on making sure that fundraising efforts are not tainted by fraud and that we are doing everything possible to ensure that funds raised for the relief in Haiti are legitimately going to support the victims of the earthquake. Now let me turn to the subject of today's hearing, if I might. As recent events have made clear, terrorist remain determined to strike the United States. The FBI has transformed itself in recent years to meet our responsibilities to deter, detect and disrupt these terrorists threats. We have improved our intelligence capabilities and created the administrative and technological structure needed to meet our national security mission. We are now a full partner in the intelligence community and we too must consistently collect, analyze and disseminate intelligence to those who need it. As it has often been said, today we share information by rule and withhold by exception. Meeting these threats however requires continued vigilance and improvements on the FBI's part and on the part of every member of the intelligence community. Let me take a moment to address the evolving threats we have seen over the past several years. We not only face the traditional threat from al Qaeda but also from self directed groups not part of al Qaeda's formal structure. We face threats from home grown extremists, those who live in the communities they int to attack, and are often self radicalized and self trained. We also face threats from individuals who travel abroad to terrorists training camps in order to commit acts of terrorism overseas or to return home to attack America. And these threats continue to change and evolve as extremists are now operating in new sanctuaries around the world, as al Qaeda and its offshoots are rebuilding in Pakistan, Yemen and the Horn of Africa. While the terrorist threat has not diminished, together with our intelligence community partners, we have disrupted a number of plots over the past year. We have learned a great deal from these cases, both about the new emerging threats and how to stop them. Let me offer several examples. In May, four individuals in New York -- some of whom met and were radicalized in prison -- were arrested for plotting to blow up Jewish synagogues and to shoot down military planes. In July, a group of heavily armed extremists in North Carolina were arrested for making plans to wage jihad overseas after traveling to terrorists training camps. In September, on the eve of September 11th, a Colorado resident was arrested in New York for planning to set off a bomb after having received detailed bomb-making instructions from Pakistan. That same month, two self radicalized loners, one in Springfield, Illinois and one in Dallas, Texas, were arrested for attempting to bomb a federal courthouse and a downtown office tower in those respective cities. And weeks later, a Chicago resident was arrested for his role in planning a terrorist attack in Denmark and assisting in the deadly 2008 Mumbai attacks. And, of course, the killing of a young Army recruiter in Arkansas in May and the tragic shootings at Fort Hood in November are stark examples where lone extremists have struck the military here at home. Last year's cases demonstrate the diversity of new threats we face, some involve self radicalized terrorists influenced by the internet or their time in prison, others receive training or guidance from known terrorists organizations abroad, either in person or over the internet. And the targets of these attacks range from civilians to government facilities to transportation infrastructure and to the military both in the United States and overseas. On Christmas Day, the attempted bombing of Northwest Flight 253 has made it clear that the threat of attack from al Qaeda and its affiliates continues to this day and we can and must do more in response to these threats. As directed by the president, the FBI has joined with our partners in the intelligence and law enforcement communities to review our information sharing practices and procedures to make sure such an event never happens again. For the FBI, the president has directed a review of the visa status of suspected terrorists on data bases at the terrorist screening center and asked for recommations for improvements to the protocols for watch listing procedures at the TSC. Together with our intelligence community and law enforcement partners we will learn from and improve our intelligence systems in response to the Christmas Day attack. Now Mr. Chairman, you mentioned the exigent letter issue and let me address that as well. Let me start off by saying that we take to the issues raised by the inspector general exceptionally seriously and we have since he first undertook a review a number of years ago. At the outset it is important to understand that the records obtained were telephone toll records and not the content of conversations. And secondly, exigent letters have not been used since 2006. As I stated in 2007 when the inspector general first reported on the FBI's use of exigent letters, the FBI has substantial weaknesses, substantial management and performance failures in our internal control structure as it applied to obtaining telephone records. And since that time -- since that time we first became aware of this, we have reformed our internal controls and developed an automated program, that together with changes in policy and training, substantially minimizes any errors. On this issue I would like to insert one quote from the report that summarizes what we've done since 2006. And the IG states: "It is important to recognize that when we uncovered the improper exigent letter practices and reported them to the FBI in our first NSL report, the FBI terminated those improper practices and issued guidance to all FBI personnel about the proper means to request and obtain telephone records under the ECPA." He goes on to say that that does not excuse -- and I agree with him -- does not excuse the improper use of exigent letters and the ineffective and ill-conceived attempts to cover them with other NSLs. SEN. LEAHY: Thank you. And the rest of the statement will be placed in the record. We will probably be going back to this issue during the hearing. Our next witness will be Patrick F. Kennedy, the undersecretary of State for Management, a career administrator in the Foreign Service. Undersecretary Kennedy oversees the Bureau of Consular Affairs as the secretaries principal adviser on management issues. Mr. Kennedy, please go ahead, sir. MR. KENNEDY: Thank you very much, Chairman Leahy, Ranking Member Sessions and -- SEN. LEAHY: Is that microphone on -- it's the red -- MR. KENNEDY: Yes. SEN. LEAHY: There you go. MR. KENNEDY: Chairman Leahy, Ranking Member Sessions and distinguished members of the committee: Thank you for the opportunity to appear before you today. As Secretary Clinton stated following the attempted bombing of flight 253: "We're all looking hard at what did happen in order to improve our procedures to avoid human errors, mistakes, oversights of any kind and we are going to be working hard with the rest of the administration to improve every aspect of our efforts." We acknowledge that errors were made and that processes need to be improved. Here are the steps we have already taken: The Department of State misspelled Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab's name in a visa Viper report. As a result, we did not add the information about his current visa in that report. To prevent this, we have instituted new procedures that will ensure comprehensive visa information is included in all visa viper reporting that will call attention to the visa application and issuance material that is already in the databases that we share with our national security partners. SEN. LEAHY: With the forbearance of my colleagues: Why can't you have something -- if you go on a Google search, you go on a a Yahoo! search and you type in a name, the computer automatically ask you: "Well, did you mean -- " and puts three or four other ways to find him. Why wouldn't that be a relatively simple thing to do? MR. KENNEDY: That is correct, Senator. When we are -- when an applicant appears before us, we already have that software installed on our application screening process. If we put in the name "Kennedy" and we misspell it, it'll come back Kennedy, Kenedy, Knndy. We had not loaded that software into the database to check on already issued visas, because we were looking for a specific known commodity. We are in the process of changing that. We've also evaluated the procedures and criteria used to revoke visas. The State Department has broad and flexible authority to revoke visas and we regularly use that power. Since 2001 we have revoked 51,000 visas for a variety of reasons -- including over 1,700 for suspected links to terrorism. In an ongoing effort with our partner agencies, new watch listing information is continually checked against the database of previously issued visas. We can and will revoke visas without prior consultation and circumstances where an immediate threat is recognized. We can and do revoke visas at the point of people seeking to board and aircraft, preventing their boarding. In coordination with the National Targeting Center, we revoke visas under these circumstances almost daily. We are standardizing procedures for triggering revocations from the field and we are adding revocation recommations to our visa Viper report. We've scrubbed our databases and reviewed information coordination with our partner agencies. In our data scrub since December 25th, we've reviewed the names in all prior visa Viper submissions. We've have reexamined information our consular lookout database on individuals with potential connections to terrorists activities or support for such activities. In these reviews we have identified cases for revocation and have also confirmed that substantial numbers of these individuals hold no visas and few ever did. Many were -- and for the two who did, many were revoked prior to the current review. We recognize the gravity of the threat and are working intensely with our colleagues from other agencies to ensure that when the U.S. government obtains information that a person may pose a threat to our security, that person does not hold a visa. At the same time, expeditious coordination with our national security partners is not to be under estimated. There have been numerous cases where our unilateral and uncoordinated revocation of the visa would have disrupted important investigations that were under way by one of our national security partners. They had the individual under investigation and our revocation action would have disclosed the U.S. government's interest in that individual and ed our colleagues' ability -- such as the FBI -- to pursue the case quietly and to identify terrorist plans and co-conspirators. We will continue to closely coordinate our revocation processes with our intelligence and law enforcement partners. Information sharing and coordinated action are foundations of our border security systems put in place over the past eight years. We believe that U.S. interests in legitimate travel and trade promotion, as the chairman mentioned, and educational exchange are not in opposition to our border security aga and in fact, further that aga in the long term. We will continuously make enhancements to the security and integrity of the visa process. As we continue to take this work, we take a comprehensive review. The department has close and productive relationships with our interagency partners -- particularly the Department of Homeland Security, which has authority for visa policy. The State Department brings unique assets and capabilities to this partnership. Our global presence, international expertise and highly-trained personnel bring us singular advantages in supporting the visa function throughout the world. We have developed and implemented an extensive screening process requiring personal interviews and supported by a sophisticated global information network. This front line of border security has visa offices in every country, virtually, staffed by highly trained, multilingual, culturally-aware personnel at the State Department. We have embraced a multi-layered approach to border security which gives multiple agencies an opportunity review information and requires separate review at both the visa and admission stages. No visa is issued without being run through security checks against our partner databases. And we also screen applicants' fingerprints against U.S. databases as well. We take our partners consideration into every effort that we make. We fully support the visa security program at the Department of Homeland Security and work closely with them in a dozen countries. This multi-team effort, to which each agency brings its particular strengths, results in a more robust and secure process with safeguards and checks and balances. It is based on broadly shared information and is a solid foundation on which to build our border security future. We are passed the era of stovepiping data, but there is clearly more work to be done. We are doing that work now and planning future improvements as we continue our review. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. SEN. LEAHY: Thank you very much, Secretary Kennedy. David Heyman is the assistant secretary for Policy at the Department of Homeland Security; previously served as director of the Homeland Security Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies; also served as the senior adviser to the U.S. secretary of Energy, the White House Office of Science Technology Policy. Secretary Heyman, thank you for being here. Please go ahead, sir. MR. HEYMAN: Thank you, Chairman Leahy, Senator Sessions and distinguished members of the committee. I appreciate the opportunity to testify. Let me just start by echoing the sentiments regarding the tragedy in Haiti. This tragedy is of epic proportions and the men and women at the Department Homeland Security, Coast Guard, FEMA -- across the department -- are working around the clock to support the international effort for the people of Haiti. As President Obama's made clear, we are all of us determined to find and fix the vulnerabilities in our systems that allowed this attempted attack to occur. Our country's actions against terrorism require a multi-agency, multinational effort to include the intelligence community, the Defense Department, DHS, the agencies here today -- as well as efforts of our international allies. Our aviation security relies on partnerships among the U.S. government, the airline industry and foreign governments. These partnerships must all come together when an individual seeks to travel to the United States. To board a plane, there are effectively three key requirements: An individual must retain proper documentation to include a passport, visa or travel authorization, a ticket and boarding pass. That individual must pass through checkpoint screening to ensure that he is not concealing a weapon or other dangerous material on his person or in his baggage. And third, the individual must be cleared through a pre-flight screening process that seeks to determine if that individual poses a threat and thus could be denied permission to fly. Within that travel process, let me briefly describe the DHS role. First, to accomplish pre-flight screening, the Department of Homeland Security is one of the principal consumers of the terrorist watch list, which includes the no-fly list. We check against it and use it to keep potential terrorists from boarding flights and to identify travelers who should undergo additional screening. Second, within the United States, to prevent the smuggling of weapons and other dangerous materials on planes, DHS performs the physical screening at airport checkpoints and provides further security measures in flight. Outside the United States, DHS works with foreign governments and airlines to advise them on required security measures for flights bound to the U.S., as well as on which passengers may prove a threat. TSA does not, however, screen people or baggage at international airports. I have submitted the longer, written statement describing the various DHS programs that work to keep terrorists from boarding planes, but regarding the attempted attack on December 25, Umar Farouk Abdulmutallab should never have been able to board a U.S. bound plane with explosives. The interagency process to fix the vulnerabilities highlighted by this attack is well underway. As a consumer of the watchlist information, DHS welcomes the opportunity offered by this process to contribute to improving the federal government's ability to connect and assimilate intelligence, and we are working with the FBI, ODNI and NCTC on that. We are also focused on improving aviation screening and expanding international partnerships to guard against a similar type of attack. I have just personally returned from a 12-day trip of consultations with key partners abroad. In terms of the DHS role, though, the bottom line is that Mutallab was not on the No Fly list, which would've flagged him to be prevented from boarding, nor was he on the selectee list, which would've flagged him for secondary screening. Furthermore, the physical screenings that were performed by foreign authorities at airports in Nigeria and in the Netherlands failed to detect the explosives on his body. Immediately after the attack, DHS took a number of immediate steps to secure incoming and future flights, to include directing FAA to alert 128 incoming flights of the situation, increasing security measures at domestic airports, implementing enhanced screening for all our international flights coming to the U.S. and working with state and local air carriers to provide appropriate information. In the reports to the president regarding this attempted attack, the department has outlined five key areas of action that we are now addressing. First as the incident underscores, aviation security is increasingly an international responsibility. That's why Secretary Napolitano dispatched Deputy Secretary Lute and myself and other officials to meet our international counterparts of this issue. Today, Secretary Napolitano is traveling to Spain to meet with her European counterparts for discussions on how to strengthen international aviation security measures. Second, DHS has created a partnership with the Department of Energy and its national laboratories to use their scientific expertise to improve screening technology at airports. Third, DHS will move forward in deploying enhanced security technology, screening technologies like advanced imaging technology and explosive trace detection machines to improve our ability to detect the kind of explosives we saw on the 25th. Fourth, we will strengthen the capacity of aviation law enforcement including the Federal Air Marshals Service. And finally, as mentioned earlier, we will work with our interagency partners to re-evaluate and modify the way the Terrorist Watch List is created, including how names are added to the No Fly and selectee list. As the president has said, there is, of course, no foolproof solutions, but there a many steps we can and are taking today to strengthen international aviation security. We face an adaptive adversary. As we develop new screening technologies and procedures, our adversaries will also see new ways to evade them, as shown on Christmas Day. We must always be thinking ahead to innovate, improve and adapt to the new and emerging security environment and I look forward to your questions to discuss this further. Thank you. SEN. LEAHY: Thank you. I still have a main co