George H. W. Bush: “Read My Lips” Speech (1988)

George H. W. Bush: “Read My Lips” Speech

I have many friends to thank tonight. I thank the voters who supported me. I thank the gallant men who entered the contest for the presidency this year and who have honored me with their support. And, for their kind and stirring words, I thank Governor Tom Kean of New Jersey—Senator Phil Gramm of Texas—President Gerald Ford—and my friend, President Ronald Reagan.

I accept your nomination for President. I mean to run hard, to fight hard, to stand on the issues—and I mean to win.

There are a lot of great stories in politics about the underdog winning—and this is going to be one of them.

And we're going to win with the help of Senator Dan Quayle of Indiana—a young leader who has become a forceful voice in preparing America's workers for the labor force of the future. Born in the middle of the century, in the middle of America, and holding the promise of the future—I'm proud to have Dan Quayle at my side.

Many of you have asked, “When will...