Military

DATE=9-20-01

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT

TITLE=BUSH - REACT (L)

NUMBER=2-280833

BYLINE=DEBORAH TATE

DATELINE=CAPITOL HILL

CONTENT=

VOICED AT:

INTRO: Republicans and Democrats in Congress are standing united behind President Bush in his war on terrorism. In an unprecedented joint appearance, the Senate Majority and Minority leaders expressed their support for Mr. Bush in a broadcast response shortly after the President's speech to Congress. Correspondent Deborah Tate reports from Capitol Hill.

TEXT: Democratic Majority Leader Tom Daschle assured the President that the administration's proposals aimed at cracking down on terrorism have the full support of Congress.

/// DASCHLE ACT ///

We want President Bush to know, we want the world to know that he can depend on us. We will take up the president's initiatives with speed.

/// END ACT ///

Republican Minority Leader Trent Lott echoed Senator Daschle's comments. He said if those responsible for last week's terrorist attacks thought their action would the tear the country apart, they were wrong.

/// LOTT ACT ///

Tonight there is no opposition party. We stand here united, not as Republicans and Democrats, not as southerners or westerners or easterners, but as Americans.

/// END ACT ///

The House and Senate - with unusual speed - last week passed a 40-billion-dollar aid package to respond to the disaster. Lawmakers also voted to give the president the authority to use military force against those found to be responsible for the attacks.

While underscoring the importance of a nation united against terrorism, Senator Daschle also called for America to be united against acts of hatred toward Arab-Americans and Muslims. There have been some attacks against mosques and Arab-American-owned businesses since last week's terrorist incidents. (SIGNED)

NEB/DAT/RAE