Cattlemen from across the nation got a special visit this morning from President George W. Bush, who spoke at the Spring Legislative Conference of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA). The President received a warm welcome when introduced by NCBA President John Queen of North Carolina.

Cut #1  :54  out take: …”George W. Bush. (applause)”

President Bush focused much of his speech on trade, saying that American industry must get a fair opportunity to compete in the global marketplace.

Cut #2  :38  out take: … “people want to buy.”

He said market access remains too restricted for U.S. beef, and promised to continue efforts to rebuild global market share for beef.

Cut #3  :36  out take: … “to make a living.”

Bush called on trading partners to open their markets and compete fairly with U.S. producers.

Cut #4  :26  out take: … “then let’s compete.”

He said recently negotiated trade agreements with Peru, Colombia and Panama are advantageous for U.S. agriculture, and must be ratified by Congress.

Cut #5  :20  out take: … “these three agreements.”

Bush said Congress must also renew the President’s Trade Promotion Authority before July 1, which requires an up-or-down vote in Congress of all trade agreements. Without it, trade agreements will be delayed and become bogged down in Congress. He also thanked NCBA for being a leader on this issue.

Cut #6  :32  out take: … “Trade Promotion Authority. (applause)”

Bush also spoke about the importance of tax relief to the economy and the profitability of cattlemen.

Cut #7  :11  out take: … “the government can.”

The President thanked NCBA for its efforts to repeal the Death Tax, which he said is an unfair burden to farmers and ranchers.

Cut #8  :52  out take: … “once and for all. (applause)”

President Bush challenged Congress to provide permanent relief from the Death Tax for farmers, ranchers and other small businesses.

Cut #9  :24  out take: … “and I’ll sign it. (applause)”