On September 11, 2001, terrorists attacked the World Trade Center in New York City and the Pentagon in Washington D.C. President George W. Bush calmed the nation during that time and warned the enemies by declaring, “Terrorist attacks can shake the foundations of our biggest buildings, but they cannot touch the foundation of America. These acts shatter steel, but they cannot dent the steel of American resolve” (Yang). Nine days after the attack, President George W. Bush addressed Congress with the State of the Union address and continued this sentiment. During his speech, Bush urged the American people to support the “War on Terror” and embarked upon a foreign policy change that altered the outlook of every American. Since that fateful speech, Bush has endured much criticism for how he handled the events following the attacks of September 11, yet a reaction and change in procedure was inevitable. The job of the Commander and Chief requires the President to act decisively, creatively, and consistently, an aspect of the job fulfilled completely by President Bush during this time of turmoil. He united with Congress, and together they passed a joint resolution to declare war on Iraq. President Bush worked tirelessly to restore hope back to the American people after it was shattered due to terrorism. For Bush, the goal of war was not to eliminate the weapons causing the destruction, but to eliminate the man behind the weapons, and he was successful. He established a democracy in Iraq that has continued to serve as an example to other nations in the Middle East and passed the Patriot Act, again uniting Americans and strengthening national security. The response of George W. Bush to the terrorist attacks of September 11 made extraordinary use of the powers of the presidency and changed the United States, its government, and the world in ways that have left a permanent mark on the new century. Due to the attacks of September 11, our country felt very vulnerable and desired a sense of security. President Bush acted immediately by signing the Patriot Act into existence in an effort to unite and strengthen Americans. The Patriot Act stands for “providing appropriate tools required to intercept and obstruct terrorism” (Woodward). The main action granted by the Patriot Act were the allowances given to law enforcement, providing them the ability to investigate into personal correspondences and activities without evidence of terroristic ties and/or activities. Despite liberal criticism, the Patriot Act was determined to be completely within the parameters of the Constitution. Bush felt this law would give law enforcement officials the tools they needed to protect against terrorists and other criminals. He felt confident that this law would strengthen the Justice Department and improve national security. Many felt the Patriot Act was a positive and necessary step following the attacks of September 11 to help streamline communication between varying agencies assisting in investigations of terrorist activities. This Act also provided increased funding for victims of terro