White House Gaggle

By Kevin Little
President’s schedule:

The President began the day with his usual briefings. He then had an NSC meeting and met with Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld. This afternoon, the President will meet the principal diplomatic representative of Iraq along with members of the Iraqi National Symphony. This evening the President will participate in holiday staff receptions.

On Iraq:

On questions concerning the recent decision to bar all nations who were against the war in Iraq from bidding on contracts for Iraqi reconstruction, White House Press Secretary Scott McClellan said the decision does not exclude countries from participating in the reconstruction process. McClellan said, "if additional countries decide to participate in our efforts in Iraq, then it is my understanding that they would be eligible for prime contracts." McClellan said that U.S. taxpayer dollars should go to the Iraqi people and the coalition partners and countries that have been contributing forces.

Resignation of Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Mel Martinez:

McClellan said the administration "appreciates" the work Martinez has done to increase home ownership opportunities. On questions concerning a reported announcement of Martinez’s future political plans, McClellan said he was unaware of any announcement and declined to comment.

10th Anniversary of "Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell":

Responding to questions on the President’s level of satisfaction with the policy, McClellan said "the President has always said that he supports the policy and that he believes is it up to military leaders to determine and decide the best way to implement the policy."