March 28, 1985
Nearly 2 years have passed since the Scowcroft commission forged a bipartisan consensus that
united us in our common search for ways to protect our country, reduce the risk of war, and
ultimately and dramatically reduce the level of nuclear arms. And the American political process
has tested that consensus ever since.
The latest test ended today. Thankfully, today's positive vote by the House of Representatives --
the fourth congressional vote on the MX Peacekeeper during the past 2 weeks -- sustained a key
element of the Scowcroft commission recommendations, and production of the Peacekeeper
missile will continue.
I want to thank everyone who helped us sustain the bipartisan consensus so essential for our
security and our future. I will not soon forget those who chose the road of political courage and
vision.
That road ahead will not be easy. We can expect tough bargaining in Geneva, and further tests of
American resolve and unity will surely follow. But if we ensure American strength and
determination and if we and the Soviet Union negotiate wisely and in good faith, we can reach
agreements that will deeply reduce the level of nuclear arms and pass on a safer and more hopeful
world to all of God's children. And I will do everything in my power to achieve that goal.