President Bush visits Stafford

STAFFORD - President George W. Bush visited Stafford County today, addressing members of area rotary clubs and the Fredericksburg Regional Chamber of Commerce.

Stafford Rotary Club hosted the event at the Holiday Inn-North on U.S. 17 in Yak-A Doo's restaurant attached to the hotel. About 85 people were on hand to hear Bush's speech, which centered on the economy.

Bush, who said he is generally optimistic about the economy, spoke for about an hour and fielded questions from several members of the audience. 

He said he'd veto any tax increase. Raising taxes on the American people, Bush said, would be the most negative thing Congress could do in the face of economic uncertainty. 

"I don't think Congress needs any more money," he said.

Bush spoke about a variety of topics including health care, the military, taxes and housing.

"I come to you today as a man honored to serve a great country," Bush said near the conclusion of his speech.

House speaker Bill Howell (R-28th) attended the event, as did congressional Rep. Rob Wittman, (R-1st) and state Sen. Richard Stuart (R-28th).

Tracy Bell is a staff reporter for Media General's Stafford County Sun.