White House Gaggle

By Rhianna Fischer-Ortiz
The President’s Schedule

The President began his day with his usual briefings. He will meet with the National Governors’ Association at 10:30. He will focus on "his two biggest priorities," the war on terrorism and the strengthening of the economy. The President will talk about the importance of "staying on the offensive" and "taking the fight to the enemy." He will discuss how "the economy is moving in the right direction" and will emphasize the importance of an educated work force. The President will also highlight the "historic education reforms that he has passed." He will also talk about "promoting compassion" and reaching out to faith-based organizations. This evening, the President will make remarks at the Republican Governors’ Association Reception. McClellan briefs at 12:30. Ambassador Boucher will brief at 1:30. There will be a briefing by Secretary Powell, Secretary Thompson, and Global Aids Coordinator Ambassador Tobias at 12:15 to discuss the President’s emergency plan for AIDS relief.

AIDS

McClellan declared that the United States is providing "unprecedented leadership and resources" in the fight against AIDS. He said that the United States’ leadership in fighting the AIDS pandemic "is every bit as important as our leadership to promote freedom and democracy in the world." Secretary Powell, Secretary Thompson, and Ambassador Tobias will be releasing to Congress the President’s five-year strategy for AIDS relief. McClellan said that, as of today, $350 million has already been given to service providers to bring relief to those suffering with AIDS.

Haiti

A multi-national mission was sent to Haiti on Saturday in the hopes of bringing about "a peaceful political solution." An assessment team went to the United States’ embassy to look at the security situation. The United States’ policy is that it will return any boat migrants to their country.