WASHINGTON – The Bush twins joined their father on the campaign trail yesterday as the president said his re-election is needed to ensure the safety of Americans in the years ahead.
“After four years more in this office, I want people to look back and say, ‘The world is a more peaceful place,’ ” Bush said in Iowa after arriving with daughters Barbara and Jenna on Air Force One.
“Four more years, and America will be safe and the world will be at peace.”
The president, who has launched military action in Afghanistan and Iraq, told Iowans, “Nobody wants to be the war president. I want to be the peace president.”
The Bush twins, campaigning together with their father for the first time, did not address the crowd and would not talk with reporters.
“I’m sorry that Laura’s not with us,” said Bush, who also stumped in Missouri.
“Fortunately, however, our two daughters came today. I’m really glad they’re on the campaign trail with me because it makes the days a little shorter and the trips a lot more fun.”
Iowa and Missouri are toss-up states that Bush and Democrat John Kerry are fighting hard to win this year.
Kerry remained off the campaign trail, while writing his convention speech at his Nantucket home.