Bush Addresses Christian Coalition

W A S H I N G T O N, Sept. 30 -- George W. Bush reaffirmed his support for theChristian Coalition’s values today in a three-minute videotapedaddress meant to soothe any hard feelings created by his absencefrom their convention.

“Should I be elected, I will lead our nation toward a culturethat values life, the life of the elderly and the sick, the life ofthe young and the life of the unborn,” Bush said. He didn’texplain why he initially hadn’t intended to speak.

Addressing abortion, which is high on the list of concerns atthe convention, Bush said good people disagree on the issue, buteveryone should seek ways to promote adoption and parentalnotification.

“And when Congress sends me a bill against partial-birthabortion, I will sign it into law,” he added.

Bush outlined his support for cutting taxes, restoringchildren’s moral values and reforming Social Security andeducation.

“Like Ronald Reagan, I believe that the freedom we cherishultimately depends on the values our families teach,” Bush said.

Dede Robertson, wife of Christian Coalition founder PatRobertson, echoed her husband’s earlier warning that Bush shouldn’ttake their support for granted. Speaking before Bush addressed thecrowd, she criticized both parties.

“We have one candidate who changes his personality every nowand then and then we have another candidate who has distancedhimself from his supporters and pals around with John McCain,” shesaid.

Members Support Bush

Christian Coalition members attending the convention were moresympathetic to Bush.

“We are the choir here,” said Tonnie Dunmoyer, a real estatebroker from Hemet, Calif. “He doesn’t have to come here because weare for him. He should be out there stumping to talk to people.”

Bruce Friedman, an engineer from Brandon, Fla., agreed.

“I would have liked to see George Bush here in person, but Iknow that he is out campaigning. I don’t think he would havechanged anyone’s mind in this room,” he said. Bush was inCrawford, Texas, preparing for the first presidential debate.