[Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George H. W. Bush (1992, Book I)]
[May 6, 1992]
[Page 709]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]



[[Page 709]]

Exchange With Reporters Prior to Discussions With President Rafael 
Callejas of Honduras

May 6, 1992

Legislation on Social Programs

    Q. Mr. President, do you think your feelings about the blame game 
have been misinterpreted?
    The President. I hope not. I've made it very clear. you heard me 
speak on it. I hope it's clear.
    Q. Your remarks on Monday and your spokesman's remarks?
    The President. My remarks on Monday about what?
    Q. Blaming Congress for not passing your programs.
    The President. Well, I'd like to get them passed. But I really don't 
think this is the time for blame; I think this is a time to move 
forward. And I think what Marlin said got grossly misinterpreted.
    So I don't want to discuss it anymore. I've got a distinguished 
visitor and a good friend here. The man is doing a first-class job down 
there, and we've got some business to talk about.
    Q. You're not taking him to the woodshed--Marlin?
    The President. Absolutely not.
    Q. Do you think that Clinton's playing politics----
    The President. Helen [Helen Thomas, United Press International], 
you're out of here. Come on. We've got to go to work.

                    Note: The exchange began at 3:15 p.m. in the Oval 
                        Office at the White House.