WTHR |Senator Bayh speaks to future leaders

Senator Bayh speaks to future leaders

Roger Harvey/Eyewitness News

Indianapolis, October 22 - Indiana Senator Evan Bayh held his annual service leaders summit Saturday to recognize the accomplishments of high school students across the state.

Bayh also spoke about national events as he considers entering the race for president.

Senator Bayh met with 170 students recognized for their outstanding service. The gathering took place as Bayh considers a presidential run to lead the country.

The Democratic senator says Hurricane Wilma will likely give the federal government an opportunity to prove it can handle disaster relief after Katrina. "It was mind boggling how the state and federal officials were not working together. We have always done better than that here in Indiana. I am concerned given their past performance but hopeful they have learned from their past mistakes and can do better."

In Washington D.C., there's a tremendous amount of attention focused on Supreme Court nominee Harriett Miers. Bayh says he hasn't made up his mind. "We just don't know nearly enough to reach an informed decision so I am reserving judgment."

With more bloodshed in Iraq this weekend, there are some lawmakers who want U.S. troops pulled out of Iraq.

Bayh says it makes no sense to put a date on the calendar before Iraq's military is sufficiently trained to enforce democracy.

"Every American wants to see us be successful so the Iraqis can be free and Iraq can be stable and our troops can come home. That is what General Casey is planning for. What we need to do is focus on that plan and make sure it is successful."

He encouraged the nation's future to support the soldiers.

The young people at the leaders summit are living up to the title of student leader as they put together care packages for the troops overseas.

Bags of snacks, candy and puzzle books will help those fighting for freedom. Senator Bayh told these leaders they will remember acts like these for years to come.

The service leader summit is held each year on national Make-A-Difference day.