White House Gaggle

By Rhianna Fischer-Ortiz
President’s Schedule

The President had his usual briefings this morning. He will tape his radio address this morning, which is a State of the Union preview. He will then spend time preparing for the State of the Union address. At 2:30, he will meet with the presidential envoy to Iraq and he will depart at 3:15. McClellan will brief again at noon.

Iraqi Government

When asked about the possibility of direct elections in Iraq, McClellan repeatedly told reporters to refer to the November 15th agreement between the Coalition Provisional Authority and the Iraqi Governing Council. This agreement outlines the transfer of sovereignty to the Iraqi people. He repeatedly said that both parties will "continue to work within the framework of the November 15th agreement." McClellan said that much of what is needed for direct elections to be held in Iraq is not in place. But, he said that "democracy is at work in Iraq, democracy is emerging and is taking root." He gave the example of the 600 town hall meetings held across Iraq in the month of December. McClellan emphasized that the government that is to be formed is "an Iraqi driven process" and that Iraqis are "assuming more responsibility for their country."

United Nations

McClellan said that the United Nations "has a vital role to play in bringing about a free and prosperous Iraq" and has special expertise to offer in holding elections and drafting a constitution.

State of the Union Preview

The President received an outline of the State of the Union address just before the holidays. His first preparation speech will be today in the Oval Office. Additional preparation speeches are planned throughout the weekend. McClelland gave a preview of what the President will talk about in his State of the Union address on Tuesday. The President will discuss the "relentless war on terror", the need to continue to act to create a "robust job environment", and the need to make tax cuts permanent. The President will also emphasize the importance of workers gaining the necessary skills to be successful at their jobs. He will discuss the critical role faith-based organizations play in their work with charities. The President will also mention the need to "save and strengthen" Social Security and allow people, on their own, to invest a portion of their own Social Security money.

The Week Ahead

On Monday, the President will meet with spouses of African-American clergy members at a lunch hosted by the First Lady. On Tuesday, the President will deliver the State of the Union address at the Capitol. On Wednesday, he will travel to Toledo, Ohio and on to Phoenix, Arizona, where he will spend the night. At both places, he will be making follow-up remarks on his State of the Union address. On Thursday, the President will travel to Roswell, New Mexico. On Friday, he will have a photo opportunity with the 2003 Florida Marlins. The Vice President will travel to Switzerland on January 24th. On January 26th, he will travel to Italy to meet with Italian leaders and on the following day will meet with the Pope.