Talk Radio News Service: News, Politics, Media

By Ellen Ratner
President's Schedule

The President has his usual round of meetings today. He is also meeting with the King of Jordan and has a press availability with Afghan President Karzai. He will then be meeting with Secretary of Defense Rumsfeld and with the Master of the 9/11 Compensation Fund. So far there are 2,964 claims of the 9/11 Compensation Fund, 98% of the overall potential victims, and overall costs of $7 billion. The President will address the Southern Baptist Convention at 3:45pm and then will make remarks at the Annual Congressional picnic on the White House lawn.

Saddam Hussein

Press Secretary Scott McClellan said that Saddam Hussein will be turned over to face justice from the Iraqi people. Discussions are continuing with the interim government and Saddam Hussein will be turned over at the appropriate time. McClellan reiterated that the Geneva Convention applies in Iraq.

Vice President's Remarks on Terrorism

Scott McClellan said that there had been long established ties with terrorism regimes and Abu Musab al-Zarqawi in Iraq. "We documented this." "We stand by what we said previously." "There was certainly support for suicide bombers in the Middle East."

CIA Leak

McClellan said there is an ongoing investigation. "We want to get to the bottom of this." McClellan would not confirm that the President has retained an attorney.

Richard Clark

Questions came up as to whether Richard Clark's comments were accurate that a National Security Council colleague was used to dig up dirt on Clark. McClellan said that this had been discussed before.

Speech to Southern Baptist Convention

McClellan said the President would discuss the big challenges including the war on terrorism, progress on the economy, the effort to build a culture of life and how to level the playing field for faith-based groups.

Torture

Asked again about torture, McClellan said that, "we do not condone torture and the President does not authorize torture." "He expects everyone to adhere to our laws and treaty obligations." In terms of Guantanamo, the President has directed the military to treat military detainees humanely and consistent with the Geneva Convention.

Economy

McClellan stated that the economy is strong and growing stronger. The unemployment rate is below 1970's, 1980's and 1990's levels. In terms of inflation, it is something we always keep our eyes on. It is important to talk about progress in the economy. "We are in a strong recovery . . . the facts are very clear." "The economy is moving in the right direction. There is more we can do." McClellan said the policies advocated by the President in the past are
continuing to make our economy stronger.