[Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: GEORGE W. BUSH (2001, Book I)]
[January 29, 2001]
[Page 33]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]



Remarks Prior to a Meeting With Bipartisan Congressional Leaders and an 
Exchange With Reporters
January 29, 2001

Legislative Agenda

    The President. I'm continuing a series of meetings I'm going to have 
with Members of the Congress. I'm very serious about sitting down as 
often as possible with people from both parties to have frank 
discussions about issues that concern the country. I believe there is a 
very good opportunity for us to exceed expectations. Expectations are 
that nothing will get done. I'm confident that the people here in 
Washington and Members of the Senate don't agree with that.
    We're going to talk about education, and we're going to talk about 
taxes. We'll talk about the patients' bill of rights--a variety of 
issues that are of concern, and what we call front burner issues, issues 
that should be making it through the Congress soon.
    I want to thank the Members for coming. I'm honored that they would 
come down from the Hill to visit the Vice President and me. Thanks for coming.
    Q. I have one question about----
    The President. I'll catch you tomorrow. You missed your chance at 
the third press availability. [Laughter]
    Q. When are you going to do your first news conference, Mr. 
President?
    The President. These mini news conferences count. [Laughter]

Note: The President spoke at 5:32 p.m. in the Cabinet Room at the White 
House. A tape was not available for verification of the content of these 
remarks.