Reaction to Bush's New Orleans Address

Some congressional reaction to President Bush's national address on the reconstruction of the Gulf Coast after Hurricane Katrina.

"The president picked a very inspiring spot to make this speech. The image is worth many words in terms of what Jackson Square and the cathedral mean to New Orleans and what New Orleans means to the nation. ... His three proposals are innovative and bold." � Sen. Mary Landrieu, D-La.

"I welcome the boldness of his vision. ... Clearly the tough work remains to be done, and everybody, including Congress, needs to roll up their sleeves and get that work done." � Sen. David Vitter, R-La.

"The president tonight spoke eloquently of both the suffering this hurricane has caused and about the hope that continues to rise in the Gulf Coast region, even as the floodwaters recede." � House Majority Leader Tom DeLay, R-Texas.

"The Gulf Coast region does not deserve to be treated as a laboratory for political opportunism or ideological experimentation. Now is the time for unity." � Joint statement by Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., and House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif.

"He has expressed his disappointment with the initial response. We, in the Congress, echo that sentiment. However, in the days following the storm, this country has demonstrated the true spirit of what makes America great, neighbors coming together and helping one another." � House Speaker Dennis Hastert, R-Ill.

"Leadership isn't a speech or a toll-free number. Leadership is getting the job done. No American doubts that New Orleans will rise again. They doubt the competence and commitment of this administration." � Sen. John Kerry, D-Mass.