Click here to watch Governor George W. Bush announce the formation of his presidential exploratory committee.

For the text of Governor Bush's announcement click here.

I do have a compelling reason to consider running for President: I want the 21st century to be one of prosperity with a purpose. If America pursues limited government, low taxes, free and fair trade and free markets, our country will continue to be prosperous. But the purpose of prosperity is not merely material wealth. America must be prosperous and strong so the next century is peaceful. America must be prosperous so our citizens can find high quality, high paying jobs. And we must make the purpose of prosperity to help every single person have a shot at achieving the American dream, to strengthen our families where we find love and values, and to remove obstacles from faith-based groups and our local communities being involved in the compassionate delivery of help to those in need.

I believe in the promise of America -- the fundamentally American conviction that each of us can be what we want to be, can achieve what we want to achieve, so long as we are willing to work and earn it. The promise is meant for everyone, not just a few -- and as we move into the 21st century, I want the party of Lincoln to be the party that makes sure no one is left behind.

George W. Bush, March 7, 1999

When the supposed providers of information are all owned by one company, is it any wonder political discourse is infantile?