White House Gaggle

By Jay Tamboli
President’s Schedule:

The President made a congratulatory call to Fernandez, President-elect of the Dominican Republic, and they briefly discussed their commitment to cooperation. The President had his usual briefings. He will have a photo opportunity and make brief remarks with the Detroit Shock. This evening he will make a speech at the United States Army War College. Scott McClellan will brief at 1:00; Ambassador Boucher briefs at 12:30.

Tonight’s Speech:

The President will discuss the 5 specific steps that are being taken to move forward on the transition in Iraq. Press Secretary McClellan said that the focus of the speech is strategy and goals in Iraq, so a date for troop withdrawal will not be given. Intelligence given by Ahmed Chalabi will not be discussed in the speech, and McClellan said he was not himself in a position to discuss it. The speech will likely last 30-35 minutes, and approximately 450 people will be in attendance. Excerpts of the speech will likely be released to the media beforehand. McClellan said he would not look at the President’s upcoming speeches as a "series" of speeches, instead saying that the President will continue to talk about Iraq "over the next several weeks, and even beyond."

Bike accident:

The President is said to be in good shape after his fall, continuing his 17-mile bike ride that day and taking a 20-mile ride on Sunday. The President fell when he hit a wet spot of ground while going downhill. McClellan said that as far as he knows, the President always wears a mouth guard while cycling.