White House Gaggle

By Gregory Gorman
February 14, 2005

President’s Schedule

The President had his usual briefings this morning and participated in a National Security Council meeting on Iraq. Today, the President will travel to the Department of Justice to attend the swearing-in ceremony of new Attorney General Alberto Gonzalez. Following the ceremony, the President will have policy time and pose for departure photos with outgoing NASA Administrator Sean O’Keefe.

Iraqi Election

Press Secretary Scott McClellan was asked for the White House’s reaction to the recently announced results of Iraq’s elections. McClellan stated that the White House commends the Iraqi people for their courage and determination and for the country’s continued path to democracy. The administration also congratulates all the members of the new Iraqi National Assembly. McClellan said the United States, "looks forward to working with the new government and supporting them as they put leadership in place, draft a constitution and hold an election at the end of the year for a permanent representative". McClellan was then asked if the White House was disappointed with the poor showing of the party of U.S.-supported Iraqi Prime Minister Ayad Allawi. McClellan responded, "it is a great thing that democracy is emerging in Iraq and the President congratulates the Iraqi people and those that fared well in the elections. We will be there to support them as they move forward and draft a constitution".

Social Security

McClellan was asked about Senator Chuck Grassley’s recent comments about the President’s plan to raise taxes and cut benefits to ensure the solvency of Social Security. McClellan reminded the media that Senator Grassley also said that the government is going to pass legislation this year to strengthen Social Security. McClellan said that the administration welcomes the debate on Social Security and that, "the President has made it clear that he welcomes all ideas and that all ideas are on the table". According to McClellan, the principles of the administration have remain unchanged, namely that the President does not support an increase in payroll taxes and that all ideas to strengthen Social Security will be welcomed in order to make the system sound.

Assassination of Former Lebanese Prime Minister

McClellan stated that the United States condemns today’s brutal attack in the strongest possible terms of former Lebanese Prime Minister Rafik Hariri. The United States extends its condolences to the family and the many followers of Mr. Hariri. McClellan stated that, "today’s murder is a terrible reminder that the Lebanese people must be able to pursue their aspirations and determine their own political future free from violence, intimidation and Syrian occupation". McClellan then reiterated that his previous comment should not be taken as any kind of Syrian link to the assassination.