White House Gaggle

By Kevin Little
President’s Schedule:

The President began his day with a breakfast with congressional leaders to
discuss legislative priorities as well as the war on terrorism and the Iraq
Supplemental. The President then had his usual briefings, followed by a

meeting with Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld. At 10:30 he will
participate in a roundtable discussion on Medicare with seniors and
Secretary of Health and Human Services, Tommy Thompson. At 11:05 the
President will give a speech on Medicare where he will talk about how after
years of debate we are now on the verge of modernizing Medicare. This
afternoon the President will depart for Dallas, Texas, where he will make
remarks at the dedication of the Oak Hill Bible Fellowship, highlighting his
faith-based initiative.

On the President’s Remarks Yesterday:

When asked to discuss what the banner on the U.S.S. Lincoln meant reading
"Mission Accomplished," Scott McClellan said it was put up by Navy
crew-members, and not by White House staff. McClellan said the banner did
not mean the mission in Iraq was accomplished, rather the crew of the U.S.S.
Lincoln had "accomplished their mission." McClellan said there was a
"mischaracterization" in the banner’s meaning, and that it was only put up
to congratulate the crew on their mission.

On Medicare:

McClellan said the President is working closely with members of Congress and
he will continue to have discussions to find more ways to increase choices
and benefits. McClellan said that "competition is important" in the debate
over Medicare. McClellan also said that the President wants his Medicare
agenda passed this year.

On the Iran Deadline:

In response to questions on the October 31st Iran Deadline, McClellan said
it was essential for Iran to meet all 3 key aspects outlined by the IAEA.

On the Economy:

McClellan said the economy is mainly going in the right direction, but that
the President would not be satisfied until it translated into jobs. In
order to accomplish this task, McClellan said Congress must act on the
President’s 6-point plan.

Miscellaneous:

McClellan declined to discuss the Bush re-election campaign, saying that the
President was primarily "focused on the people’s business."