Frist Hails Successful Platform Process

Republican National Convention ^ | August 30, 2004

[RWR8189]

Inclusive Document Promoting Bold Leadership

NEW YORK - Platform Committee Chairman U.S. Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist, M.D. (R-TN) today hailed approval by the delegates at Madison Square Garden of the Republican Platform. Governor Bill Owens (R-CO) and Congresswoman Melissa Hart (R-PA) served as co-chairs of the committee. The Platform Committee met throughout last week to draft and approve the text of the Republican Platform. It requires approval from the convention delegates.

"This platform is the product of a transparent and inclusive process. America needs leadership that focuses on ensuring our safety, defeating terrorism, providing health security, strengthening our economy, promoting compassion, and expanding opportunities," said Senator Frist. "President Bush and the 2004 Republican Platform represent that kind of leadership."

The Republican National Committee tapped Frist and his co-chairs to lead the process that culminated in the 2004 Republican Party Platform. There were five subcommittees, each designated to work on specific issues. The subcommittees met on Wednesday, August 25th and then presented their reports to the full Platform Committee. The full Committee considered over 70 amendments.

After the Full Committee formally ratified the Platform today, Frist presented the document to all of the convention delegates for final ratification.

"We are united in our support for our Party and our President, George W. Bush. We believe," said Senator Frist, "that we offer the best choice of leadership for all Americans. We are the party of fresh thinking and innovation. Our Platform also makes very clear that we value open debate and the democratic process. While we may not agree on all positions formally adopted by the Party, we respect and accept each other and our differences."

The Platform serves as a statement of principles, policies, and achievements for the Republican Party. The Platform's preamble lays out the following priorities: "Our plans focus on ensuring that America remains safe, terrorists are defeated, and democracy flourishes in the world...on expanding opportunities for ownership and investment...on making tax relief permanent and ensuring greater energy independence...on increasing the affordability and accessibility of health care...on promoting works of compassion and strengthening our greatest values...on preparing students for success in life by bringing the benefits of education reform to high schools...and on helping workers adjust to a changing economy by offering flexible training options that meet their individual needs."

The Platform is posted online and can be viewed in its entirety at: www.gopconvention.com/platform.

The Republican National Convention will be held for the first time ever in New York City at Madison Square Garden from August 30 - September 2, 2004. For more information, please visit www.gopconvention.com.