Bush Helps GOP Senators Raise $2.1 Million

LOUISVILLE, March 2 -- President Bush headlined a fundraiser Friday for Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) and the National Republican Senatorial Committee that netted $2.1 million. Organizers called it the largest fundraiser in state history.

Speaking to a dinner crowd at the century-old Seelbach Hilton Louisville Hotel, Bush defended his decision to send more troops to Iraq. He also criticized those in Congress who oppose the plan, saying, "They have a solemn responsibility to support those who wear the uniform of the United States."

The event was the second GOP fundraiser in a week for Bush, who continues to be a major Republican draw despite his dismal approval ratings. On Monday, he spoke at a Washington event that raised $10.4 million for the Republican Governors Association.

Before coming here, Bush spoke at Silver Street Elementary School in nearby New Albany, Ind., where he urged Congress to reauthorize the No Child Left Behind education law.

The measure, which requires states to set educational standards and to hold schools accountable for meeting them, is helping to improve student achievement, he said.

"This is a piece of legislation that is vital for the country, in my judgment," Bush said. "It is working, and we ought to make sure it stays in law."

-- Michael A. Fletcher