President George W. Bush and first lady Laura wave to the delegates at the end of the Republican National Convention on Thursday, September 2. (Photo: AP Photo/Pablo Martinez Monsivais)

Thursday, September 2—President George W. Bush gave his acceptance speech tonight, marking the official beginning of his re-election campaign for the office of President.

"Mr. Chairman, delegates, fellow citizens, I'm honored by your support, and I accept your nomination for President of the United States," Bush said.

The President used his speech to highlight his record in office. He talked about how he handled the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, and how he has worked to strengthen the economy. He also spoke about how education will be a priority in his next term if he is re-elected. Other issues included health care, the war on terror, and how he will "help make your life better, not run it."

"We will build a safer world and a more hopeful America, and nothing will hold us back," Bush said.

President Bush, along with the other keynote speakers at the convention, remembered former President Ronald Reagan in their speeches. They said his legacy lives on through the Republican Party. Reagan, who was probably the most popular President in recent history, was a Republican. He died earlier this year at the age of 93.

The President spoke from a circular podium that jutted out into the audience. The stage was built during the day before the 10 p.m. speech. It was designed to showcase the President on a carpet of the presidential seal, surrounded by supporters.

Bush's acceptance speech wrapped up the Republican National Convention this week, and marked the official beginning of the final stretch to Election Day. Bush's opponent, Senator John Kerry, wasted no time getting started. He held a midnight rally in Ohio, just about a half hour after the gavel fell in New York, ending the Republican Convention.

President Bush headed for a campaign rally in Pennsylvania on Friday. He and Kerry will both be all over the state of Ohio this weekend. Ohio is a key state—no Republican has ever taken office without winning Ohio.