/ADVANCE/ BOSTON, July 26 /PRNewswire/ -- The following is a transcript of a speech by the Honorable Tom Vilsack at the Democratic National Convention, Monday, July 26, 2004:

It is my privilege to address you as co-chair of the Platform Committee.

This is the first national Democratic platform since the awful events of 9/11.  There is no more important function of government than to protect the safety and security of its people.  Our platform gives that critical task the priority it deserves.

Protecting our security is a multi-faceted challenge, and our platform addresses the many paths we must pursue.  These include stopping the spread of weapons of mass destruction; promoting democracy and freedom; strengthening our over-stretched military forces; and achieving real energy independence for our nation.  All of these goals are essential.  None of them can be ignored.

As we take these important steps to protect our security and our values at home and around the world, we recognize that we are at war with an enemy that must be destroyed.  The recent release of the 9/11 Commission's Report has revealed the many deficiencies in past anti-terror efforts.  To achieve victory in the war on terror, we must be strong, innovative, and bold.

Our platform describes how we can improve U.S. intelligence, cut off funding for terrorists, and prevent nations from providing a training ground for terrorist operations.  Further, we commit to direct and immediate military action to capture or destroy terrorist groups and their leaders.  In short, we will confront al-Qaeda and its terror affiliates around the globe with every tool available.

And we will do what this administration has failed to do: use diplomacy to create an effective, worldwide coalition against terror.  We must directly confront terrorist access to weapons of mass destruction, particularly nuclear arms.  We are committed to lead an international effort to stop nuclear programs in North Korea, Iran and elsewhere.

We propose four steps to stop terrorists from acquiring nuclear weapons, including a renewed effort to lock away or destroy existing weapons and materials -- a critical area where the current Administration has failed.

Americans have come to understand that John Kerry and John Edwards have the experience and the fortitude to lead our country and the world in the war against terror.  We will be sure that our people on the frontlines -- our police, our firefighters and other emergency personnel have the training and resources to do their critical work.  The current Administration has not adequately supported these heroes.  We will.

I thank you for the privilege of co-chairing the Platform Committee.  I am proud to recommend to you this 2004 platform, which, like our nominees for president and vice president, will make our country stronger at home and more respected in the world.

Ladies and gentlemen, it is my pleasure to help you welcome the former secretary of defense during the Clinton Administration, the Honorable William Perry.

Source: Democratic National Convention Committee

CONTACT:  Peggy Wilhide of the Democratic National Convention Committee,
+1-617-366-3100

Web site:  http://www.dems2004.org/