Talk Radio News Service: News, Politics, Media

By Gregory Gorman
January 5, 2006

President's Schedule

The President had his usual briefings this morning and received a call from United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan to wish him a happy new year. The Secretary General and President Bush discussed their concern for the health of Israeli Prime Minister Sharon as well as the successful elections in Iraq and the work that the United Nations has been doing to assist Iraqi authorities as they finalize the election results. After his morning briefing, the President called University of Texas Coach Mack Brown to congratulate him on his victory in last night's Rose Bowl. Press Secretary Scott McClellan quoted the President, "Congratulations on a wonderful moment. Tell the team congratulations. We are proud of them". President Bush looks forward to having the Texas Longhorns visit the White House soon. This morning, the President will meet with former Secretaries of State and Secretaries of Defense in a meeting similar to the ones he had with bi-partisan members of Congress before the holiday break. The meeting will focus on discussing the plan for victory in Iraq and about the progress being made in the region. The group will hear directly from General Casey, General Pace and Ambassador Khalilzad. Vice President Cheney and Secretary Rice will also be in attendance. According to McClellan, this meeting will be a chance for the President to broaden his outreach and hear from a bi-partisan group of officials from previous administrations. This afternoon the President will sign the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act followed by remarks to United States university presidents at their summit on international education.

Ariel Sharon's Condition

McClellan said that now was the time to keep the focus on making sure that Prime Minister Sharon is getting the medical attention that he needs. The White House sends its thoughts and prayers to the Prime Minister and his family. When asked if Sharon's condition will slow down the Middle East peace process, McClellan said that now was not the time to discuss the issue. The White House will continue to keep in touch with the government of Israel.

Newt Gingrich Comments

In response to a question regarding recent comments by former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich about corruption in the Republicans Party, McClellan commented, "It is important for elected officials to adhere to the highest ethical standards. The President has been someone that has supported common sense campaign finance reforms".

UT/USC National Championship Game

McClellan announced that President Bush watched the National Championship football game until halftime then he woke up late and saw the end of the game.

Abramoff Visits to the White House

McClellan said that he is still working on finding out the number of times that lobbyist Jack Abramoff visited the White House. He said there is no update at this time and that he is trying to be as thorough as he can.