George Bush Announcement Speech in Houston, Texas on October 12, 1987
"I am here today to announce my candidacy for the Presidency of the United States. I mean to run hard, to fight hard, to stand on the issues -- and I mean to win.
For seven years, I have devoted myself, as a Vice President should and must, to helping a President conduct the most difficult job on earth. The President asked for, and received, my candor he never asked for, but received, my loyalty. I had much to say to him, and I spoke with trust. But now I am a candidate for President, and now it is my responsibility to turn to the American people and share with them my hopes and intentions, and why I wish to lead.
I am following a great Presidency -- and a great President. Ronald Reagan returned dignity and good sense to the high office he holds. Seven years ago, a nation that needed to trust again turned to him -- and refound its spirit. I am proud to have been his partner; I am proud to have been part of his great work.
For seven years now, I have been with a President -- and I have seen what crosses that big desk. I have seen the unexpected crises that arrive in an urgent cable; I have seen the problems that simmer on for decades and suddenly demand a resolution. I have seen modest decisions made with anguish, and crucial decisions made with dispatch.
The Presidency isn't like anything else. It isn't like the Senate, only more so. And it isn't like a governorship. A presidency can shape an era -- and it can change our lives. A successful presidency can give meaning to an age; a failed presidency can give us problems it takes generations to undo.
And so I know what it all comes down to, this election -- what it all comes down to, after all the shouting and the cheers -- is the man at the desk. And who should sit at that desk.
I am that man.
I love my country too much -- I love my children and grandchildren too much -- to campaign for the job if I didn't think, if I didn't know that I am the best man for it.
And so it begins. And I ask for your help.
Will you join me?
Will you help me complete our triumph? It's going to be a great adventure. Come -- and we'll do it all, with trust in the future, with trust in each other -- together, as one nation, under God.
Thank you all -- thank you very much."
