Good afternoon.

Over the last 24 hours, I've had the opportunity to meet with the key state and local leaders involved in planning the 2002 Winter Olympics here in Salt Lake City. I received security briefings from local FBI officials, the Utah Olympic Public Safety Command, and other government representatives and spoke with U.S. Attorneys from Utah, Montana, and Idaho.

I appreciate these leaders and professionals taking the time to talk with me, and I have been extremely impressed with their dedication and resolve. It's clear to me that a tremendous amount of hard work, coordination, and forethought have gone into ensuring a safe, secure, and successful Winter Olympics. Security preparations have been underway for more than six years, and I am confident that these plans are sound, comprehensive, and effectively adjusted for the realities of September 11th. The full resources of the state, local, and federal governments are being deployed, with more than 7,000 security and public safety and health professionals from 80 different agencies standing ready, and I believe this team is as well prepared and well trained as the athletes themselves.

I am especially pleased to see the high level of teamwork and cooperation among the various security and law enforcement professionals here. The Utah Olympic Public Safety Command is, in my mind, a model of cooperation, and I thank them for their efforts. During our meeting this morning, I assured them that the FBI is absolutely committed to providing the right level of support and information to our federal, state, and local partners. I also shared with them the steps the Bureau is taking to respond to their needs and concerns, including the appointment of high level executives in the FBI who will be focused on strengthening our relationships.

Finally, I want to thank the men and women of the FBI's Salt Lake City field office, which covers the states of Utah, Idaho, and Montana. They have had a full plate these past several months. They have not only handled their traditional responsibilities and helped prepare for the Olympics, they have also covered 940 leads in our investigation of the September 11th attacks and responded to more than 150 anthrax threats or hoaxes. Through it all, they have done a tremendous job.