White House Gaggle

By Betsy DeSitter
July 2, 2004

President’s Schedule:

The President began his morning with his usual briefings. He then moved
to a meeting with the Homeland Security Council. This morning he will be taping a radio address to the nation and later meet with small business owners in the East Room of the White House. At 12:10, the President will leave for Camp David. He will be there until Sunday, at which time he will be traveling to West Virginia. July 5th – Office Closed. July 6th -The President will meet the Prime Minister of Iceland. July 7th -The President will be in Raleigh, North Carolina. He will speak at a VICTORY 2004 reception, then move on to Detroit, Michigan to address Michigan judicial nominees. July 8th -The President will meet the King of Morocco. He will also speak at a Latin American Citizens Convention. July 9th – The President will be on a bus tour, visiting 3 cities in Pennsylvania. He will also appear on "Ask President Bush." July 11th -T-Ball at the White House.

July 4th Speech:

The President will be speaking in Charleston, West Virginia on Sunday,
July 4th. Press Secretary Scott McClellan said that he will probably be
talking about America’s leadership role in the world. He will possibly
acknowledge and thank the United States military and provide an update
on the war on terror.

Economy:

When asked about job growth, McClellan stated that since August 2003,
there have been 1.5 million jobs created, and according to the
President, "They are good paying jobs." However, the 10 month job
increase only makes up for the 2 million jobs already lost. A total of
112,000 jobs were created in June, yet statistics show that 150,000 jobs are
necessary each month to keep up with the population growth. Therefore, a gain is not acquired. According to McClellan, "The President is optimistic in the direction the economy is headed." He stated, "The policies we put in place are working." Despite employment increases, McClellan said that the President does not believe that the recent progress is enough. He claimed, "There’s more we can continue to do."

Iraq and U.S. forces:

When asked about the role of American troops in Iraq, McClellan stated
that their primary function was "to help train and equip the Iraqi
security forces." American troops are present to "help them in any way
that we can." He also said, "The international community is standing
firmly with the Iraqi people. Iraqis are recognizing that they now have
full responsibility." According to McClellan, the Iraqi citizens are
appreciative of the coalition’s presence in the region. They are grateful for the international community’s help and support.

Saddam Hussein Trial:

In response to Saddam Hussein’s trial, McClellan stated that justice is
in the hands of an Iraqi court. Hussein will receive a fair trial and
justice will prevail. When asked whether or not the White House feared
Saddam’s release and return to power, McClellan said, "We (Bush
Administration) fully expect that Saddam Hussein will be held
accountable for the atrocities he committed."

Jordan and Yemen:

McClellan stated that if the interim governments requested to send
troops, the United States would help, "train and beef up their forces."
These two Arab nations, along with NATO forces are supporting a free and stable Iraq. The United States hopes that NATO will meet its commitment and continue to invest in "the future security of the world."