At CDC, Bush Lauds "New Heroes in America"

"I truly believe you have saved hundreds of lives, and for that I am grateful," President George W. Bush told about 250 members of the anthrax task force on Thursday at the CDC in Atlanta. "It gives me great confidence to know you are working overtime." While the president praised the agency's efforts, he stopped short of endorsing additional CDC funding beyond what is contained in a $40 billion anti-terrorism initiative. He said the White House will take some time to evaluate what additional spending is needed to combat bioterrorism and support homeland defense, including a possible increase in funding to strengthen CDC programs. He said he would present a supplemental budget request to Congress if necessary. "Before we spend more money, let's make sure we have a national strategy to deal with the homeland defense issue," Bush told reporters.

Back to other CDC news for November 9, 2001

Previous Updates