White House Gaggle

By Stephanie Edgerly
February 28, 2005

The President had his usual briefings this morning and then participated in an NSC meeting about Iraq, followed by a meeting with the Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld. The President looks forward to meeting with the National Governor’s Association in the State Dining Room later today. The President is expected to touch on a number of important domestic priorities and a few international issues. There will be a press briefing at 1:00 PM.

Iran

The President devoted much time last week listening to the concerns of European leaders over Iran and nuclear weapons. McClellan said the U.S. and Europe share a common goal of making sure Iran does not acquire nuclear weapons. Press Secretary Scott McClellan said the President was, "very much in a listening mode" last week. Currently, the President is considering how the U.S. can best be helpful. McClellan said the President is, "looking for options on the way forward when it comes to Iran."

Russia and Iran

In terms of the agreement between Russia and Iran, McClellan said that he is not aware of all the details and is waiting to learn more. He states that Russia shares the United States’ concern over Iran and that Russia has previously assured the U.S. that no fuel would be delivered until Iran complies with international obligations. McClellan said he will wait for more information on the agreement to comment further.

Social Security

The President is back on the road this week to discuss Social Security. The President gave a radio address over the weekend in which he stated that he was open to all ideas about reforming Social Security except increasing the payroll tax rate. The President has made it clear he believes voluntary personal accounts should be part of the solution. McClellan says the President is, "pleased with the progress being made in terms of the national discussion of the issue." In response to the different views about how to strengthen Social Security, McClellan said, "we have not ruled anything in or out, or embraced any particular idea."

Governor’s Association meeting

McClellan says the President is strongly in favor of Medicaid because it provides healthcare for millions of low income Americans. Under the President’s plan, funding for Medicare will grow, however it will be at a slower rate than previously thought. McClellan states that it is important for Governors to have flexibility when it comes to Medicaid. In addition, Medicaid has been a budgetary strain because of loopholes and accounting gimmicks. The President, with the help of Health and Human Services Secretary Leavitt, has been discussing the issue with the Governors and will continue to do so.