Speech by Bill Bradley in Crystal City on September 8, 1999
"Today, I want to be as clear as that glass about who I am and why I am running for President of the United States.
I have come back to my hometown because for me, this is where the world of possibility and hope all began, a world I want to open for all Americans.
I believe America should be made whole, but I don't want to erase our differences. It's those differences that give us our uncommon energy and wonderful creativity. The beautiful paradox of America is this:
The leadership that is called for at this moment goes beyond a presidency, and into every home and heart. The renewal of the American Dream has to shine so bright that we can dream dreams we never thought possible before.
I have confidence in this Dream because it is the theme of my life - because without a famous family name or great wealth, I was given the encouragement and love and the opportunity that enabled me to forge a path on my own.
I've never forgotten the people who were my support, many in this town to whom I will always be grateful. They were ordinary Americans who did extraordinary things for me."
