English subtitles for clip: File:4-8-13- White House Press Briefing.webm
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1 00:00:01,133 --> 00:00:02,133 Mr. Carney: Welcome. 2 00:00:02,133 --> 00:00:03,133 Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. 3 00:00:03,133 --> 00:00:04,100 Thanks for being here. 4 00:00:04,100 --> 00:00:05,834 I hate to startle to you with my relative punctuality, 5 00:00:05,834 --> 00:00:06,967 but I do have to -- 6 00:00:06,967 --> 00:00:12,033 (laughter) 7 00:00:12,033 --> 00:00:14,934 I have to leave at 1:45-ish, 1:50, 8 00:00:14,934 --> 00:00:17,033 so I want to go straight to your questions. 9 00:00:17,033 --> 00:00:18,066 Julie. 10 00:00:18,066 --> 00:00:20,666 The Press: Five Americans were killed in Afghanistan over the weekend, 11 00:00:20,667 --> 00:00:22,967 including a 25-year-old diplomat. 12 00:00:22,967 --> 00:00:25,900 Did that incident or any of the other recent violence we've seen 13 00:00:25,900 --> 00:00:28,900 in Afghanistan color the President's decision-making as 14 00:00:28,900 --> 00:00:34,400 he's looking to settle on a post-2014 force? 15 00:00:34,400 --> 00:00:36,967 Mr. Carney: Well, first of all, our thoughts and prayers go out to those who 16 00:00:36,967 --> 00:00:42,734 lost their lives, both military personnel as well as civil 17 00:00:42,734 --> 00:00:47,633 personnel, as well as to those who were wounded. 18 00:00:47,633 --> 00:00:50,834 What is absolutely the case is Afghanistan remains a very 19 00:00:50,834 --> 00:00:51,834 violent place. 20 00:00:51,834 --> 00:00:56,500 It is also true that we have made great strides in our 21 00:00:56,500 --> 00:00:59,467 efforts to train up the Afghanistan National Security 22 00:00:59,467 --> 00:01:03,867 Forces as they take increasing responsibility for the security 23 00:01:03,867 --> 00:01:06,399 in their country, and that process continues. 24 00:01:06,400 --> 00:01:10,934 So, broadly, in answer to your question, the answer is no, 25 00:01:10,934 --> 00:01:16,366 that no specific incident is affecting a decision-making 26 00:01:16,367 --> 00:01:20,000 process in a policy that the President is convinced is the 27 00:01:20,000 --> 00:01:23,367 correct one and that he is engaged in with his national 28 00:01:23,367 --> 00:01:25,166 security team and military commanders. 29 00:01:25,166 --> 00:01:27,265 The Press: General Dempsey said that the U.S. should wait until the 30 00:01:27,266 --> 00:01:30,734 summer or perhaps even later to make the decision on the 31 00:01:30,734 --> 00:01:31,734 post-2014 force. 32 00:01:31,734 --> 00:01:34,533 Is that the timeline that the President is operating on -- 33 00:01:34,533 --> 00:01:36,567 summer or perhaps later? 34 00:01:36,567 --> 00:01:40,699 Mr. Carney: I don't have any preview to give you of that process except that 35 00:01:40,700 --> 00:01:45,200 the President is committed to it as in keeping with the stated 36 00:01:45,200 --> 00:01:46,767 policy objectives he's made in the past, 37 00:01:46,767 --> 00:01:50,866 as well as our coordination with our allies. 38 00:01:50,867 --> 00:01:53,767 But I have nothing further for you on that. 39 00:01:53,767 --> 00:01:56,567 The Press: And then, just quickly, this is sort of a big week on a lot of 40 00:01:56,567 --> 00:01:59,333 different fronts -- guns, immigration, the budget. 41 00:01:59,333 --> 00:02:01,333 How does the White House view this week in terms of the 42 00:02:01,333 --> 00:02:03,200 President's second-term agenda? 43 00:02:03,200 --> 00:02:07,400 Do you see it as a pivotal week for him? 44 00:02:07,400 --> 00:02:11,433 Mr. Carney: I wouldn't distinguish this particular week from ones that 45 00:02:11,433 --> 00:02:14,466 have led to it or that will come after it except to say that we 46 00:02:14,467 --> 00:02:17,133 have a lot of work to do on behalf of the American people. 47 00:02:17,133 --> 00:02:20,000 The President set forth in his State of the Union address and 48 00:02:20,000 --> 00:02:27,133 in his inaugural address a vision and a policy agenda that 49 00:02:27,133 --> 00:02:30,567 demonstrates his commitment in his second term to continue to 50 00:02:30,567 --> 00:02:33,600 build on the progress we made in the first. 51 00:02:33,600 --> 00:02:36,567 When it comes to jobs and economic growth, 52 00:02:36,567 --> 00:02:39,033 that remains his number-one priority. 53 00:02:39,033 --> 00:02:41,767 The middle class, growing it and expanding it; 54 00:02:41,767 --> 00:02:44,233 providing ladders of opportunity to the middle class, 55 00:02:44,233 --> 00:02:47,867 for those who aspire to it -- that's his North Star. 56 00:02:47,867 --> 00:02:50,966 He is also committed to comprehensive 57 00:02:50,967 --> 00:02:51,967 immigration reform. 58 00:02:51,967 --> 00:02:56,600 And you've seen the efforts that he's made and we've made in 59 00:02:56,600 --> 00:03:00,433 concert with those working on it in Congress to help bring 60 00:03:00,433 --> 00:03:01,433 that about. 61 00:03:01,433 --> 00:03:02,667 And we've been encouraged by the progress, 62 00:03:02,667 --> 00:03:05,233 the bipartisan progress on that effort. 63 00:03:05,233 --> 00:03:07,266 Actions to reduce gun violence -- 64 00:03:07,266 --> 00:03:08,266 very much a priority. 65 00:03:08,266 --> 00:03:10,733 The President, as you know, is traveling later today to 66 00:03:10,734 --> 00:03:15,400 Connecticut to talk about the need for Congress to act, 67 00:03:15,400 --> 00:03:19,800 to vote on common-sense measures to reduce gun violence. 68 00:03:19,800 --> 00:03:24,867 And at that event he will meet with families of Newtown 69 00:03:24,867 --> 00:03:31,767 victims, as you would expect. 70 00:03:31,767 --> 00:03:34,433 These are all very important priorities. 71 00:03:34,433 --> 00:03:40,900 And the President believes that he was sent back to this office 72 00:03:40,900 --> 00:03:45,900 and that lawmakers on the Hill were elected, or reelected, 73 00:03:45,900 --> 00:03:49,467 to do the business of the American people, 74 00:03:49,467 --> 00:03:52,433 and there's no time to waste in getting about doing 75 00:03:52,433 --> 00:03:53,433 that business. 76 00:03:53,433 --> 00:04:01,132 So every one of these weeks is full of the possibility for 77 00:04:01,133 --> 00:04:05,533 progress on a range of fronts, and this is not unique 78 00:04:05,533 --> 00:04:06,533 in that case. 79 00:04:06,533 --> 00:04:10,299 Certainly, Congress is back, and that affects what's happening on 80 00:04:10,300 --> 00:04:11,300 Capitol Hill. 81 00:04:11,300 --> 00:04:13,000 But the President, the White House, 82 00:04:13,000 --> 00:04:15,266 the administration are constantly trying to move 83 00:04:15,266 --> 00:04:17,399 forward on all of these issues. 84 00:04:17,399 --> 00:04:21,433 The Press: So on the subject of guns, as I'm sure I don't have to tell 85 00:04:21,433 --> 00:04:23,933 you, there's some sense that momentum may have stalled a 86 00:04:23,934 --> 00:04:25,767 little bit on the legislation. 87 00:04:25,767 --> 00:04:29,800 And there are also reports that Senators Toomey and Manchin may 88 00:04:29,800 --> 00:04:33,367 be working towards a compromise on a background check -- 89 00:04:33,367 --> 00:04:36,667 that would focus on background checks but with some exemptions. 90 00:04:36,667 --> 00:04:38,500 Would that be enough for the White House, 91 00:04:38,500 --> 00:04:42,400 or are you simply encouraged that there's forward progress? 92 00:04:42,400 --> 00:04:43,299 Mr. Carney: Well, I'll say a few things. 93 00:04:43,300 --> 00:04:47,900 One, we are working with those on Capitol Hill who are working 94 00:04:47,900 --> 00:04:52,233 towards solutions to the legislative priorities the 95 00:04:52,233 --> 00:04:56,300 President laid out. 96 00:04:56,300 --> 00:04:58,767 Closing the loopholes in our background check system is a 97 00:04:58,767 --> 00:05:03,100 major priority, and it is something that we should be able 98 00:05:03,100 --> 00:05:07,100 to achieve; after all, more than 90% of the American people 99 00:05:07,100 --> 00:05:11,400 support universal background checks. 100 00:05:11,400 --> 00:05:13,967 Democrats, Republicans, independents; 101 00:05:13,967 --> 00:05:16,967 Americans from across the country, every region; 102 00:05:16,967 --> 00:05:20,767 gun owners, a majority -- a large majority -- 103 00:05:20,767 --> 00:05:22,900 support background checks. 104 00:05:22,900 --> 00:05:25,866 It is a common-sense thing to do -- 105 00:05:25,867 --> 00:05:29,700 to take the system that exists and improve it so that those who 106 00:05:29,700 --> 00:05:34,366 should not obtain or be able to obtain a weapon under existing 107 00:05:34,367 --> 00:05:39,467 law cannot obtain them because of the loopholes that exist. 108 00:05:39,467 --> 00:05:43,200 So we are working with those who are trying to make progress on 109 00:05:43,200 --> 00:05:47,000 this issue of both parties on Capitol Hill and we'll continue 110 00:05:47,000 --> 00:05:48,400 to do so. 111 00:05:48,400 --> 00:05:50,000 You've seen the President's proposals, 112 00:05:50,000 --> 00:05:54,333 or his ideas on this issue, and I would just say on the issue of 113 00:05:54,333 --> 00:05:57,900 background checks the President's ideas include 114 00:05:57,900 --> 00:06:04,599 exemptions for family-to-family transfer or a loan of weapon, 115 00:06:04,600 --> 00:06:07,300 a firearm, between hunters who are friends. 116 00:06:07,300 --> 00:06:09,900 So this is not -- I mean, I wouldn't want to cabin that 117 00:06:09,900 --> 00:06:14,967 issue as particularly problematic. 118 00:06:14,967 --> 00:06:19,467 But I'm not going to get into details about the negotiations 119 00:06:19,467 --> 00:06:22,332 going on between individual senators or groups of senators 120 00:06:22,333 --> 00:06:26,767 except to say that we continue to press for action by Congress. 121 00:06:26,767 --> 00:06:28,867 And we continue to press for, as my colleague, Dan Pfeiffer, 122 00:06:28,867 --> 00:06:35,500 said yesterday, the absolute obligation of Congress to vote 123 00:06:35,500 --> 00:06:39,767 on each one of these proposals. 124 00:06:39,767 --> 00:06:43,133 I recently watched the State of the Union address again, 125 00:06:43,133 --> 00:06:46,200 and it is a powerful moment, it is worth reviewing when the 126 00:06:46,200 --> 00:06:51,700 President called on Congress to vote on each of these measures 127 00:06:51,700 --> 00:06:53,166 because Gabby Giffords deserves it; 128 00:06:53,166 --> 00:06:55,400 because Hadiya Pendleton deserves it; 129 00:06:55,400 --> 00:06:59,166 because the children of Newtown deserve it. 130 00:06:59,166 --> 00:07:02,567 And members of both parties stood and applauded. 131 00:07:02,567 --> 00:07:07,367 So they ought to fulfill the message they sent by applauding 132 00:07:07,367 --> 00:07:10,233 by allowing a vote on every one of these issues. 133 00:07:10,233 --> 00:07:12,967 The Press: Can you confirm, too, that, as a distinguished colleague is 134 00:07:12,967 --> 00:07:17,000 reporting, that parents of the victims of Newtown are traveling 135 00:07:17,000 --> 00:07:19,667 with him on Air Force One? 136 00:07:19,667 --> 00:07:23,667 Mr. Carney: I can tell you two things, which is -- regarding that. 137 00:07:23,667 --> 00:07:25,933 First, prior to delivering his remarks, 138 00:07:25,934 --> 00:07:28,033 the President will meet with families of victims and 139 00:07:28,033 --> 00:07:31,033 survivors of the tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary in 140 00:07:31,033 --> 00:07:35,300 Newtown, Connecticut, as well as with first responders. 141 00:07:35,300 --> 00:07:38,967 Following the remarks, 11 family members of victims will return 142 00:07:38,967 --> 00:07:44,099 to Washington, D.C. with the President onboard Air Force One. 143 00:07:44,100 --> 00:07:46,667 These are family members who are planning to be in Washington to 144 00:07:46,667 --> 00:07:48,933 speak with Congress about the importance of taking action to 145 00:07:48,934 --> 00:07:50,734 reduce gun violence. 146 00:07:50,734 --> 00:07:54,200 And in order to make sure they were able to attend the event in 147 00:07:54,200 --> 00:07:56,866 Connecticut and still be in Washington when they needed to 148 00:07:56,867 --> 00:08:00,967 be, we invited those family members to fly back with 149 00:08:00,967 --> 00:08:01,967 the President. 150 00:08:01,967 --> 00:08:04,366 The Press: I just had a question about North Korea as well. 151 00:08:04,367 --> 00:08:07,700 Over the weekend, some senior Chinese officials, 152 00:08:07,700 --> 00:08:13,767 Xi Jinping and Foreign Minister Wang made comments alluding to 153 00:08:13,767 --> 00:08:15,734 North Korea. 154 00:08:15,734 --> 00:08:20,166 It seemed to be statements that were encouraging North Korea to 155 00:08:20,166 --> 00:08:21,500 stand down a little bit. 156 00:08:21,500 --> 00:08:23,166 Is the United States encouraged by those statements? 157 00:08:23,166 --> 00:08:25,867 Do you have any reaction to that? 158 00:08:25,867 --> 00:08:30,000 Mr. Carney: I can tell you that we welcome efforts by Beijing and Moscow to 159 00:08:30,000 --> 00:08:32,833 encourage Pyongyang to refrain from provocative 160 00:08:32,833 --> 00:08:34,566 rhetoric and threats. 161 00:08:34,567 --> 00:08:36,299 We will continue to work with our Chinese, 162 00:08:36,299 --> 00:08:39,733 Russian and other partners to get North Korea to abide by its 163 00:08:39,734 --> 00:08:41,133 international obligations. 164 00:08:41,133 --> 00:08:44,233 As we've said in the past, we have been working with the 165 00:08:44,232 --> 00:08:48,400 Chinese and the Russians, and encouraging those nations and 166 00:08:48,400 --> 00:08:52,333 those governments to use their influence with the North Koreans 167 00:08:52,333 --> 00:08:59,233 to persuade the North Koreans to cease these provocative actions 168 00:08:59,233 --> 00:09:03,500 and this provocative rhetoric, because stability in the region 169 00:09:03,500 --> 00:09:07,934 is obviously in the interest of every country in the region. 170 00:09:07,934 --> 00:09:10,533 The Press: Jay, these 11 family members that will be coming back with 171 00:09:10,533 --> 00:09:13,233 the President and lobbying members of Congress this week, 172 00:09:13,233 --> 00:09:17,032 how important is their role? 173 00:09:17,033 --> 00:09:19,433 And what kind of an impact do you think they can have up on 174 00:09:19,433 --> 00:09:22,667 Capitol Hill? 175 00:09:22,667 --> 00:09:34,367 Mr. Carney: I think those family members who have felt the pain of the Sandy 176 00:09:34,367 --> 00:09:40,233 Hook tragedy most keenly are important voices in 177 00:09:40,233 --> 00:09:41,233 this discussion. 178 00:09:41,233 --> 00:09:45,666 I think it's almost self-evident. 179 00:09:45,667 --> 00:09:51,266 When the President recently held a roundtable in Denver at the 180 00:09:51,266 --> 00:09:56,834 police academy there last week, there were family -- 181 00:09:56,834 --> 00:09:59,032 there was parents of a victim in Aurora, 182 00:09:59,033 --> 00:10:03,500 and they spoke passionately about how their lives had been 183 00:10:03,500 --> 00:10:06,600 torn apart and turned upside-down by the loss of their 184 00:10:06,600 --> 00:10:09,600 child in that movie theater, and how they were then committed for 185 00:10:09,600 --> 00:10:18,734 the rest of their lives to work for improvements in our laws 186 00:10:18,734 --> 00:10:22,500 that can reduce gun violence. 187 00:10:22,500 --> 00:10:25,200 And I think that that message is very powerful. 188 00:10:25,200 --> 00:10:31,200 So it's been stated in recent weeks that somehow the memory of 189 00:10:31,200 --> 00:10:35,333 Newtown has faded, at least in Washington, 190 00:10:35,333 --> 00:10:39,033 and I think it's important to remember for those families and 191 00:10:39,033 --> 00:10:42,266 for everyone in that community and for so many people across 192 00:10:42,266 --> 00:10:45,033 America, those memories will never fade. 193 00:10:45,033 --> 00:10:48,266 The pain will never go away. 194 00:10:48,266 --> 00:10:52,400 And it is the obligation of the members of Congress who stood 195 00:10:52,400 --> 00:10:55,165 and applauded when the President called on them to vote on these 196 00:10:55,166 --> 00:11:01,066 issues to live up to that applause when the cameras were 197 00:11:01,066 --> 00:11:10,533 on, and not to take the less courageous route by using 198 00:11:10,533 --> 00:11:13,300 procedural measures to block a vote. 199 00:11:13,300 --> 00:11:15,032 Imagine that. 200 00:11:15,033 --> 00:11:18,533 Imagine what would they say to the families of the victims of 201 00:11:18,533 --> 00:11:23,100 Newtown about why a certain measure never came to a vote 202 00:11:23,100 --> 00:11:26,400 because they filibustered it or used other procedural measures 203 00:11:26,400 --> 00:11:28,000 to block it. 204 00:11:28,000 --> 00:11:29,667 That would certainly be inappropriate. 205 00:11:29,667 --> 00:11:32,100 The Press: It seems the key players right now are Pat Toomey and 206 00:11:32,100 --> 00:11:33,667 Joe Manchin. 207 00:11:33,667 --> 00:11:36,500 Has the President been in touch with either of them or 208 00:11:36,500 --> 00:11:38,467 both of them? 209 00:11:38,467 --> 00:11:41,333 Mr. Carney: I will simply say that at the White House we have been in 210 00:11:41,333 --> 00:11:47,433 contact with all of those who are working towards solutions to 211 00:11:47,433 --> 00:11:48,900 making progress on these issues. 212 00:11:48,900 --> 00:11:52,100 I don't want to get into specific conversations with 213 00:11:52,100 --> 00:11:55,600 anyone here at the White House and those lawmakers involved in 214 00:11:55,600 --> 00:11:56,767 that process. 215 00:11:56,767 --> 00:12:02,000 There are a number of fronts in this effort, as you know. 216 00:12:02,000 --> 00:12:05,800 And we are engaged with everyone involved in the effort, 217 00:12:05,800 --> 00:12:08,532 in a good-faith effort, to try to accomplish the goals the 218 00:12:08,533 --> 00:12:09,834 President set out. 219 00:12:09,834 --> 00:12:13,400 The Press: And will the President, lastly, be satisfied if at the end of 220 00:12:13,400 --> 00:12:16,699 this process, all he is able to accomplish -- 221 00:12:16,700 --> 00:12:19,800 and even this is in doubt -- but all that he's able to accomplish 222 00:12:19,800 --> 00:12:23,967 is improving the background check system? 223 00:12:23,967 --> 00:12:24,967 Mr. Carney: Well, I would say a couple of things. 224 00:12:24,967 --> 00:12:28,533 The President supports every element in the comprehensive 225 00:12:28,533 --> 00:12:33,767 proposal he put forward, every legislative piece of 226 00:12:33,767 --> 00:12:34,767 those proposals. 227 00:12:34,767 --> 00:12:37,667 And he supports them all strongly, 228 00:12:37,667 --> 00:12:41,533 and he urges Congress to vote on all of them because it is the 229 00:12:41,533 --> 00:12:45,200 right thing to do, in the memory at least of the victims of 230 00:12:45,200 --> 00:12:50,667 Newtown and Aurora and Tucson and Oak Creek. 231 00:12:50,667 --> 00:12:55,433 The idea that passing significant legislation to 232 00:12:55,433 --> 00:12:57,900 improve background checks would be something you would describe 233 00:12:57,900 --> 00:13:03,900 as "only," when if you would imagine the prospects that 234 00:13:03,900 --> 00:13:06,766 political prognosticators would have given such legislation six 235 00:13:06,767 --> 00:13:11,500 months ago, I think says something about the road we've 236 00:13:11,500 --> 00:13:13,834 traveled since then. 237 00:13:13,834 --> 00:13:17,900 And the fact is there are a number of elements, 238 00:13:17,900 --> 00:13:21,132 legislative elements, that have moved forward and we hope will 239 00:13:21,133 --> 00:13:22,133 move forward. 240 00:13:22,133 --> 00:13:26,000 And the President hopes that every one of these bills, 241 00:13:26,000 --> 00:13:31,734 that every piece of this legislative package is voted on 242 00:13:31,734 --> 00:13:33,000 and passed. 243 00:13:33,000 --> 00:13:34,767 But he has also said from the beginning that this would be 244 00:13:34,767 --> 00:13:36,533 hard and every element of it would be hard. 245 00:13:36,533 --> 00:13:42,700 It was wrong to suggest, as some did a month or two ago, 246 00:13:42,700 --> 00:13:45,667 that somehow background checks, getting universal background 247 00:13:45,667 --> 00:13:47,367 checks would be a cakewalk. 248 00:13:47,367 --> 00:13:50,099 I think that might even be a quote from someone. 249 00:13:50,100 --> 00:13:52,066 That was never going to be the case. 250 00:13:52,066 --> 00:13:54,533 If it were the case, if it had been the case, 251 00:13:54,533 --> 00:13:57,066 it would have happened long ago, and that's true with every 252 00:13:57,066 --> 00:13:58,066 piece of this. 253 00:13:58,066 --> 00:14:00,867 The Press: But you seem to be suggesting if the background checks are all 254 00:14:00,867 --> 00:14:03,500 you get, the glass is still half full. 255 00:14:03,500 --> 00:14:06,133 Mr. Carney: I'm saying that we need to take action everywhere we can. 256 00:14:06,133 --> 00:14:09,200 And the President will implement all 23 of the executive actions 257 00:14:09,200 --> 00:14:11,967 that were part of his proposal, and he is pushing for every 258 00:14:11,967 --> 00:14:14,900 piece of the legislative agenda that he's put forward and that 259 00:14:14,900 --> 00:14:17,132 Congress is deliberating on right now. 260 00:14:17,133 --> 00:14:19,767 They are all important and they all should be voted on, 261 00:14:19,767 --> 00:14:24,333 and they all, in the President's view, should be passed. 262 00:14:24,333 --> 00:14:27,733 The Press: Governor Bill Richardson was on "Meet the Press," yesterday -- 263 00:14:27,734 --> 00:14:29,433 this is on the issue of the budget -- 264 00:14:29,433 --> 00:14:32,133 and he was discussing the sequester and saying, 265 00:14:32,133 --> 00:14:37,667 "at least in the hinterlands, it has not been that devastating." 266 00:14:37,667 --> 00:14:39,133 Would the President agree with that assessment? 267 00:14:39,133 --> 00:14:40,500 Mr. Carney: With former Governor Richardson? 268 00:14:40,500 --> 00:14:42,467 I didn't see those comments. 269 00:14:42,467 --> 00:14:47,800 On that, I would simply say, ask the families who have lost a 270 00:14:47,800 --> 00:14:52,367 slot in Head Start, or the families of the individuals 271 00:14:52,367 --> 00:14:54,467 themselves who have been furloughed or lost their jobs, 272 00:14:54,467 --> 00:15:01,266 and then ask those economists who have said quite clearly that 273 00:15:01,266 --> 00:15:03,433 if the sequester remains in place, 274 00:15:03,433 --> 00:15:05,667 our economy will grow more slowly, 275 00:15:05,667 --> 00:15:08,133 it will create up to three-quarters of a million 276 00:15:08,133 --> 00:15:14,133 fewer jobs, and then assess whether or not it's being felt, 277 00:15:14,133 --> 00:15:15,133 or it will be felt. 278 00:15:15,133 --> 00:15:16,900 I mean, these are simple facts. 279 00:15:16,900 --> 00:15:18,000 It's bad policy. 280 00:15:18,000 --> 00:15:20,433 It was designed as bad policy, although it has been embraced as 281 00:15:20,433 --> 00:15:23,133 a political victory, a tea party victory by Republicans in the 282 00:15:23,133 --> 00:15:27,600 House who only a few months ago decried the horror that would 283 00:15:27,600 --> 00:15:29,967 come with imposition of the sequester. 284 00:15:29,967 --> 00:15:33,300 The fact is what was true then is true now. 285 00:15:33,300 --> 00:15:37,333 It was never meant to become law. 286 00:15:37,333 --> 00:15:39,934 It's arbitrary by nature and by design. 287 00:15:39,934 --> 00:15:42,199 It's not the way to go about reducing our deficit, 288 00:15:42,200 --> 00:15:46,834 as Republicans and Democrats made clear when it was crafted. 289 00:15:46,834 --> 00:15:49,699 And it achieves none of the goals that those who now embrace 290 00:15:49,700 --> 00:15:52,500 it say they want when it comes to long-term deficit and 291 00:15:52,500 --> 00:15:54,600 debt reduction. 292 00:15:54,600 --> 00:15:58,900 It does almost no good, and it does a lot of harm. 293 00:15:58,900 --> 00:16:00,900 The Press: Jay, on the background checks, as you know, 294 00:16:00,900 --> 00:16:02,900 The Washington Post has now given the President three 295 00:16:02,900 --> 00:16:05,165 Pinocchios for using a statistic: 296 00:16:05,166 --> 00:16:09,333 About 40%, I believe, of all gun purchases, he has said, 297 00:16:09,333 --> 00:16:11,333 are done without background checks. 298 00:16:11,333 --> 00:16:13,766 And it turns out that's a study from a couple of decades ago. 299 00:16:13,767 --> 00:16:15,734 Is the White House pulling back from using that? 300 00:16:15,734 --> 00:16:17,900 Do you have any regrets in making your case that this was a 301 00:16:17,900 --> 00:16:19,300 bogus stat? 302 00:16:19,300 --> 00:16:27,500 Mr. Carney: Look, I think that a substantial number of purchases of weapons 303 00:16:27,500 --> 00:16:29,467 are achievable without background checks. 304 00:16:29,467 --> 00:16:30,467 I mean, that's a fact. 305 00:16:30,467 --> 00:16:31,567 Everybody who has worked on this issue, 306 00:16:31,567 --> 00:16:34,700 Republicans and Democrats alike, understand that. 307 00:16:34,700 --> 00:16:40,667 And simply making sure that the background check system does not 308 00:16:40,667 --> 00:16:45,500 have loopholes -- giant loopholes that allow criminals 309 00:16:45,500 --> 00:16:49,333 and others who should not by law be permitted to buy a weapon to 310 00:16:49,333 --> 00:16:54,800 buy them -- that is a basic, common-sense proposal that has 311 00:16:54,800 --> 00:16:59,733 enjoyed the support, at least rhetorically of legislators of 312 00:16:59,734 --> 00:17:01,734 both parties, in other words Republicans, 313 00:17:01,734 --> 00:17:06,367 not just Democrats, that is supported by more than 90% of 314 00:17:06,367 --> 00:17:13,532 the American people, and that must be voted on and must be 315 00:17:13,532 --> 00:17:15,367 passed and signed into law. 316 00:17:15,367 --> 00:17:18,133 This is a common-sense measure that takes not a single firearm 317 00:17:18,133 --> 00:17:21,433 away from a law-abiding citizen, that protects our Second 318 00:17:21,433 --> 00:17:27,666 Amendment rights, and that will help in the cause of reducing 319 00:17:27,666 --> 00:17:31,100 gun violence in America so that what happened in -- 320 00:17:31,100 --> 00:17:33,433 that lives are saved -- the kinds of lives that were lost in 321 00:17:33,433 --> 00:17:34,600 Newtown and Aurora and elsewhere. 322 00:17:34,600 --> 00:17:37,399 And the President made clear in the State of the Union address 323 00:17:37,400 --> 00:17:39,133 -- in his State of the Union address that we will not -- 324 00:17:39,133 --> 00:17:41,467 nothing we can do now will prevent all senseless acts 325 00:17:41,467 --> 00:17:42,467 of violence. 326 00:17:42,467 --> 00:17:45,233 And there's no question that there will be victims of gun 327 00:17:45,233 --> 00:17:48,834 violence even if all of these measures are enacted. 328 00:17:48,834 --> 00:17:54,100 But that number will be reduced and those lives saved are 329 00:17:54,100 --> 00:17:55,533 worth saving. 330 00:17:55,533 --> 00:17:57,632 The Press: A moment ago you said the President is pushing for all of 331 00:17:57,633 --> 00:17:59,900 his legislative proposals on this. 332 00:17:59,900 --> 00:18:02,533 On January 16th, he mentioned -- when he took those executive 333 00:18:02,533 --> 00:18:05,466 actions that you've noted -- he talked about wanting Congress to 334 00:18:05,467 --> 00:18:08,066 fund research into the effect of violent video games. 335 00:18:08,066 --> 00:18:09,934 Why don't we hear him talking about that? 336 00:18:09,934 --> 00:18:12,266 When you're asked about this issue, you don't talk about it. 337 00:18:12,266 --> 00:18:14,600 Mental health, as well, at the beginning of this was talked a 338 00:18:14,600 --> 00:18:15,533 lot about. 339 00:18:15,533 --> 00:18:17,766 I know the President took some executive action on that. 340 00:18:17,767 --> 00:18:20,266 But why does it appear that you're not pushing Congress on 341 00:18:20,266 --> 00:18:23,367 violent video games, violent movies, and mental health? 342 00:18:23,367 --> 00:18:24,367 Mr. Carney: Well, I'd say a couple of things. 343 00:18:24,367 --> 00:18:26,066 One is we're pushing on all fronts. 344 00:18:26,066 --> 00:18:27,900 These are very important issues. 345 00:18:27,900 --> 00:18:33,633 It is a fact that there were efforts in the past to prevent 346 00:18:33,633 --> 00:18:37,233 -- supported by the usual suspects -- 347 00:18:37,233 --> 00:18:39,867 to prevent the federal government from doing research, 348 00:18:39,867 --> 00:18:43,867 the CDC and others from doing research on the impacts of 349 00:18:43,867 --> 00:18:48,399 violent video games, for example, on violence. 350 00:18:48,400 --> 00:18:51,266 And the President is committed to making sure that that 351 00:18:51,266 --> 00:18:52,266 research is done. 352 00:18:52,266 --> 00:18:53,900 It is very important. 353 00:18:53,900 --> 00:18:56,934 He is also committed -- mental health is an important aspect of 354 00:18:56,934 --> 00:18:57,934 this problem. 355 00:18:57,934 --> 00:19:00,433 And he's committed, as evidenced by his proposal, 356 00:19:00,433 --> 00:19:05,166 and you will see in a variety ways in the coming days and 357 00:19:05,166 --> 00:19:07,300 weeks, how strong that commitment is. 358 00:19:07,300 --> 00:19:12,433 So I think it's a good question, because it's a reminder that the 359 00:19:12,433 --> 00:19:19,300 legislative action taking place around gun trafficking, 360 00:19:19,300 --> 00:19:21,233 banning military-style assault weapons, 361 00:19:21,233 --> 00:19:24,399 or limiting the capacity of ammunition magazines, 362 00:19:24,400 --> 00:19:28,266 or closing the loopholes in our background checks systems, 363 00:19:28,266 --> 00:19:30,467 those are all very important but they're not the whole story. 364 00:19:30,467 --> 00:19:33,133 And what we said from the beginning and the President said 365 00:19:33,133 --> 00:19:36,100 from the beginning that this is a problem that a single piece of 366 00:19:36,100 --> 00:19:39,433 legislation will not resolve and a gun law alone will 367 00:19:39,433 --> 00:19:40,433 not resolve. 368 00:19:40,433 --> 00:19:42,000 There are many aspects to this problem. 369 00:19:42,000 --> 00:19:43,000 The Press: So last thing on that. 370 00:19:43,000 --> 00:19:45,233 When Jon asked you, I believe you said that on the gun part of 371 00:19:45,233 --> 00:19:47,433 this, we've talked to all parties, lawmakers, 372 00:19:47,433 --> 00:19:48,533 whether it's Pat Toomey, whatever -- 373 00:19:48,533 --> 00:19:51,000 without specific names, he's talked to everyone. 374 00:19:51,000 --> 00:19:53,233 Has he talked to Chris Dodd at the Motion Picture Association, 375 00:19:53,233 --> 00:19:56,399 any of his friends in Hollywood about violent movies? 376 00:19:56,400 --> 00:19:58,367 I know the Vice President I believe met with the Motion 377 00:19:58,367 --> 00:20:00,700 Picture Association January 10th or so, 378 00:20:00,700 --> 00:20:03,133 or early part of this year, but has the President gotten these 379 00:20:03,133 --> 00:20:04,367 folks on the phone? 380 00:20:04,367 --> 00:20:06,233 Mr. Carney: Again, I'm not going to read out specific conversations of the 381 00:20:06,233 --> 00:20:09,133 President or any others that we haven't already made public. 382 00:20:09,133 --> 00:20:10,800 The fact is we're pushing on all fronts. 383 00:20:10,800 --> 00:20:15,966 Part of the process that led to the set of proposals that the 384 00:20:15,967 --> 00:20:19,033 Vice President provided to the President and the President 385 00:20:19,033 --> 00:20:23,300 presented to the public was a look at that particular aspect 386 00:20:23,300 --> 00:20:27,633 of it and included meetings with representatives of industry, 387 00:20:27,633 --> 00:20:30,300 and we will continue on that front. 388 00:20:30,300 --> 00:20:31,200 Yes, Peter. 389 00:20:31,200 --> 00:20:32,767 The Press: Jay, you spoke a minute ago about the potential 390 00:20:32,767 --> 00:20:33,667 for filibuster. 391 00:20:33,667 --> 00:20:35,600 Right now we've heard from a series of Republicans that 392 00:20:35,600 --> 00:20:36,734 that's something they're considering very 393 00:20:36,734 --> 00:20:37,766 seriously right now. 394 00:20:37,767 --> 00:20:40,667 Is the White House considering a plan B of sorts, 395 00:20:40,667 --> 00:20:44,132 if that is to be the case? 396 00:20:44,133 --> 00:20:48,467 Mr. Carney: I would simply say that if there's a member of Congress 397 00:20:48,467 --> 00:20:50,934 who's contemplating filibustering some of this, 398 00:20:50,934 --> 00:20:54,000 it would be interesting to see if they stood and applauded at 399 00:20:54,000 --> 00:20:57,200 the State of the Union address when the President said that 400 00:20:57,200 --> 00:21:01,300 these victims deserve a vote. 401 00:21:01,300 --> 00:21:05,466 And regardless, if they oppose this legislation, 402 00:21:05,467 --> 00:21:08,400 have the courage to say so on the floor and vote no. 403 00:21:08,400 --> 00:21:10,000 Don't block it. 404 00:21:10,000 --> 00:21:14,033 Don't hide behind a procedural action to prevent a vote. 405 00:21:14,033 --> 00:21:15,899 That's the wrong thing to do. 406 00:21:15,900 --> 00:21:17,967 And that's how the President clearly feels. 407 00:21:17,967 --> 00:21:20,967 The Press: If that happens, as they continue to threaten, 408 00:21:20,967 --> 00:21:22,200 then what happens? 409 00:21:22,200 --> 00:21:23,266 What does the White House plan to do? 410 00:21:23,266 --> 00:21:29,266 Mr. Carney: Well, I don't want to predict an outcome like that or to engage 411 00:21:29,266 --> 00:21:32,166 in hypothetical strategic planning from the podium. 412 00:21:32,166 --> 00:21:36,567 I would simply say that the President believes it is vitally 413 00:21:36,567 --> 00:21:43,066 important and a matter of honoring the memory of these 414 00:21:43,066 --> 00:21:45,700 victims to allow votes on all of these issues. 415 00:21:45,700 --> 00:21:47,734 The Press: I want to ask you about immigration, briefly, if I can. 416 00:21:47,734 --> 00:21:50,667 There appears to be some bit of inconsistency on that. 417 00:21:50,667 --> 00:21:52,233 Chuck Schumer, Senator from New York, 418 00:21:52,233 --> 00:21:55,133 just said that the Gang of Eight was hoping to have legislation 419 00:21:55,133 --> 00:21:56,934 brought to the floor by the end of this week. 420 00:21:56,934 --> 00:21:59,300 Lindsey Graham said it would likely be longer than that -- 421 00:21:59,300 --> 00:22:01,133 two, perhaps three weeks. 422 00:22:01,133 --> 00:22:03,600 What's the White House's expectation on when immigration 423 00:22:03,600 --> 00:22:07,000 is taken up in earnest here? 424 00:22:07,000 --> 00:22:08,633 Mr. Carney: Soon. 425 00:22:08,633 --> 00:22:11,066 I would simply say that we are encouraged by the 426 00:22:11,066 --> 00:22:12,633 progress we've seen. 427 00:22:12,633 --> 00:22:17,467 We are working with those of both parties who are making 428 00:22:17,467 --> 00:22:21,300 progress on this issue and putting together legislation. 429 00:22:21,300 --> 00:22:25,867 The President made clear at the beginning of this process that 430 00:22:25,867 --> 00:22:30,200 he thought the best way to create success was for the 431 00:22:30,200 --> 00:22:32,400 Senate to take the lead through the Gang of Eight. 432 00:22:32,400 --> 00:22:34,433 And there has been significant progress, 433 00:22:34,433 --> 00:22:37,333 and I don't think anybody can contest that. 434 00:22:37,333 --> 00:22:40,200 The President still believes that we should not waste time; 435 00:22:40,200 --> 00:22:46,066 that this is an issue that is essential to act on, 436 00:22:46,066 --> 00:22:50,300 where there should be and has been substantial bipartisan 437 00:22:50,300 --> 00:22:53,567 agreement, and there is evidence that bipartisan 438 00:22:53,567 --> 00:22:54,600 agreement is there. 439 00:22:54,600 --> 00:22:57,766 And we are encouraged by what we have seen. 440 00:22:57,767 --> 00:23:00,233 But we're not there yet, so we're not going to prejudge 441 00:23:00,233 --> 00:23:02,767 legislation or the language contained in it before 442 00:23:02,767 --> 00:23:03,767 it arrives. 443 00:23:03,767 --> 00:23:08,033 But whether it's Senator Schumer's comments or Senator 444 00:23:08,033 --> 00:23:12,600 Graham's comments, the fact is most of what we are seeing are 445 00:23:12,600 --> 00:23:14,100 comments that reflect the progress, 446 00:23:14,100 --> 00:23:15,667 the positive progress that's been made. 447 00:23:15,667 --> 00:23:17,867 And the President is encouraged by that. 448 00:23:17,867 --> 00:23:20,133 The Press: And then, finally, acknowledging that the White House put out a 449 00:23:20,133 --> 00:23:22,333 statement for the President a short time ago regarding the 450 00:23:22,333 --> 00:23:24,767 passing of the former Prime Minister, Margaret Thatcher, 451 00:23:24,767 --> 00:23:28,200 I'm just curious for some of the thoughts that you can share in 452 00:23:28,200 --> 00:23:30,467 terms of the President's view of Margaret Thatcher, 453 00:23:30,467 --> 00:23:34,467 the impact she had, and his thoughts on this day. 454 00:23:34,467 --> 00:23:37,367 Mr. Carney: Well, I think the statement reflects the President's views. 455 00:23:37,367 --> 00:23:41,834 I mean, this is a loss certainly for Great Britain, 456 00:23:41,834 --> 00:23:43,600 but also for the world. 457 00:23:43,600 --> 00:23:45,667 Baroness Thatcher, former Prime Minister, 458 00:23:45,667 --> 00:23:49,533 was one of the great champions of freedom and liberty, 459 00:23:49,533 --> 00:23:52,500 and a true friend of the United States. 460 00:23:52,500 --> 00:23:55,600 She forged an important and special relationship with her 461 00:23:55,600 --> 00:23:59,466 counterpart in President Reagan. 462 00:23:59,467 --> 00:24:04,734 And she was an unapologetic supporter of the transatlantic 463 00:24:04,734 --> 00:24:06,166 alliance between our two nations, 464 00:24:06,166 --> 00:24:13,066 which has continued to be so unique and vital to the United 465 00:24:13,066 --> 00:24:15,000 States, as well as to Great Britain. 466 00:24:15,000 --> 00:24:19,033 So he is certainly saddened by her passing, 467 00:24:19,033 --> 00:24:21,300 and I think there are a great many Americans who feel 468 00:24:21,300 --> 00:24:22,800 the same way. 469 00:24:22,800 --> 00:24:26,800 The Press: Has the President offered his condolences to Prime Minister 470 00:24:26,800 --> 00:24:28,367 Cameron to this point? 471 00:24:28,367 --> 00:24:33,834 Mr. Carney: I don't have a conversation to read out at this time. 472 00:24:33,834 --> 00:24:36,433 The Press: Jay, two members of Congress have written to the Treasury 473 00:24:36,433 --> 00:24:39,667 Department expressing concern about the trip to Cuba last week 474 00:24:39,667 --> 00:24:41,132 by Beyoncé and Jay-Z. 475 00:24:41,133 --> 00:24:44,533 Does the White House share the concerns that somehow the travel 476 00:24:44,533 --> 00:24:48,065 restrictions have been pulled out a little bit; 477 00:24:48,066 --> 00:24:52,834 that people-to-people travel is not allowed for tourism? 478 00:24:52,834 --> 00:24:56,367 Mr. Carney: Well, I would say a couple of things. 479 00:24:56,367 --> 00:25:01,399 Decisions made about cultural travel and academic travel are 480 00:25:01,400 --> 00:25:04,367 made by the Treasury Department, and I would refer you for 481 00:25:04,367 --> 00:25:06,399 specific cases to the Treasury Department. 482 00:25:06,400 --> 00:25:09,367 It is certainly the case that under this administration we 483 00:25:09,367 --> 00:25:14,300 have eased the ability to travel to Cuba for those purposes. 484 00:25:14,300 --> 00:25:17,533 But the decisions at the individual level are made at the 485 00:25:17,533 --> 00:25:19,233 Treasury Department, not here. 486 00:25:19,233 --> 00:25:21,899 The Press: But the trip was sort of built by them and by the Cuban 487 00:25:21,900 --> 00:25:23,467 government as a tourism trip. 488 00:25:23,467 --> 00:25:24,734 Mr. Carney: Again, that's not a White House matter. 489 00:25:24,734 --> 00:25:27,766 That's a Treasury matter, and I would refer you to Treasury. 490 00:25:27,767 --> 00:25:31,433 The Press: But you guys wrote the rules that prohibit tourism from -- 491 00:25:31,433 --> 00:25:32,233 Mr. Carney: Right. 492 00:25:32,233 --> 00:25:36,166 And there's a process in place where those who would like to 493 00:25:36,166 --> 00:25:39,500 travel seek a license to travel, and that's done through 494 00:25:39,500 --> 00:25:40,734 Treasury, it's not done through here. 495 00:25:40,734 --> 00:25:44,833 So it's not something we have any insight into or comment on. 496 00:25:44,834 --> 00:25:47,033 The Press: Jay, you talked a lot about judicial nominees. 497 00:25:47,033 --> 00:25:51,367 Harry Reid on Friday said that he's prepared to go ahead with 498 00:25:51,367 --> 00:25:54,834 the nuclear option -- change the rules of the simple majority if 499 00:25:54,834 --> 00:25:58,467 Republicans keep on delaying it, blocking nominations. 500 00:25:58,467 --> 00:26:03,000 Is the President prepared to support Reid on that if he goes 501 00:26:03,000 --> 00:26:04,700 ahead and uses that nuclear option? 502 00:26:04,700 --> 00:26:09,500 Mr. Carney: Well, you've heard me in recent days and weeks express the 503 00:26:09,500 --> 00:26:15,166 President's view and our view here that it is highly 504 00:26:15,166 --> 00:26:22,667 unfortunate that the President's nominees have been delayed 505 00:26:22,667 --> 00:26:25,332 considerably longer -- three or four times longer -- 506 00:26:25,333 --> 00:26:27,800 than President W. Bush's nominees, 507 00:26:27,800 --> 00:26:32,265 and that we consistently see a pattern where a nominee who is 508 00:26:32,266 --> 00:26:36,633 cleared out of committee unanimously is then blocked for 509 00:26:36,633 --> 00:26:40,433 months or longer. 510 00:26:40,433 --> 00:26:46,500 And then, when that obstacle is removed, 511 00:26:46,500 --> 00:26:49,500 an obstacle that often had nothing to do with the 512 00:26:49,500 --> 00:26:53,166 qualifications of the nominee or even with the nominee himself or 513 00:26:53,166 --> 00:26:57,533 herself, that nominee is confirmed by the Senate 91 to 514 00:26:57,533 --> 00:27:00,065 nothing, or 93 to 2, or something like that. 515 00:27:00,066 --> 00:27:03,934 And that's just -- it's a problem for our judicial system, 516 00:27:03,934 --> 00:27:06,867 and it's I think a source of immense frustration for those 517 00:27:06,867 --> 00:27:08,466 who work within it. 518 00:27:08,467 --> 00:27:12,333 So having said that, I also have noted that there have been some 519 00:27:12,333 --> 00:27:18,600 signs of improvement, and we acknowledge that improvement and 520 00:27:18,600 --> 00:27:20,600 hope that it continues. 521 00:27:20,600 --> 00:27:23,600 The Press: But a nuclear option, is that something that the White House 522 00:27:23,600 --> 00:27:24,600 is considering? 523 00:27:24,600 --> 00:27:28,699 Mr. Carney: Again, I think I will simply say that we share Senator Reid's 524 00:27:28,700 --> 00:27:36,467 frustration and we hope that the Senate continues to improve in 525 00:27:36,467 --> 00:27:38,734 its consideration of and confirmation of the President's 526 00:27:38,734 --> 00:27:40,300 judicial nominees. 527 00:27:40,300 --> 00:27:41,166 Yes, Alexis. 528 00:27:41,166 --> 00:27:42,166 The Press: Jay, I want to follow up on something you were saying 529 00:27:42,166 --> 00:27:46,367 earlier about reviewing the State of the Union video. 530 00:27:46,367 --> 00:27:49,700 You mentioned the range of lawmakers who stood up during 531 00:27:49,700 --> 00:27:50,900 the President's speech. 532 00:27:50,900 --> 00:27:54,633 Were you trying to draw our attention to the forthcoming 533 00:27:54,633 --> 00:27:56,734 video advertising the Newtown -- 534 00:27:56,734 --> 00:27:57,899 Mr. Carney: No, no, no. 535 00:27:57,900 --> 00:28:04,800 I'm simply saying that it was a memorable moment for those of us 536 00:28:04,800 --> 00:28:06,800 who were in the hall or watched it on television. 537 00:28:06,800 --> 00:28:13,800 And we have spoken of late about the President's call at that 538 00:28:13,800 --> 00:28:16,567 time to allow a vote on all of these measures. 539 00:28:16,567 --> 00:28:18,567 In other words, do not block them procedurally; 540 00:28:18,567 --> 00:28:21,433 do not prevent them from coming to a vote. 541 00:28:21,433 --> 00:28:24,867 If you feel that you have to vote no, 542 00:28:24,867 --> 00:28:27,066 vote no and explain why. 543 00:28:27,066 --> 00:28:31,433 Don't hide behind procedure. 544 00:28:31,433 --> 00:28:34,233 Vote your conscience and explain why you're against universal 545 00:28:34,233 --> 00:28:37,500 background checks, if you are. 546 00:28:37,500 --> 00:28:38,500 That's all. 547 00:28:38,500 --> 00:28:40,867 And I just think -- because it had been talked about recently, 548 00:28:40,867 --> 00:28:44,667 I took a look, and I was reminded of how powerful a 549 00:28:44,667 --> 00:28:47,367 moment it was. 550 00:28:47,367 --> 00:28:48,500 Chris. 551 00:28:48,500 --> 00:28:51,967 The Press: Jay, in recent weeks, we've seen an avalanche of support for 552 00:28:51,967 --> 00:28:53,400 marriage equality on Capitol Hill. 553 00:28:53,400 --> 00:28:56,000 Just last week, six new senators announced their support for 554 00:28:56,000 --> 00:28:57,500 same-sex marriage. 555 00:28:57,500 --> 00:28:59,200 It's easy to forget that it hasn't even been a year since 556 00:28:59,200 --> 00:29:02,000 the President himself came out in support of the right for gay 557 00:29:02,000 --> 00:29:03,367 couples to get married. 558 00:29:03,367 --> 00:29:05,166 By making that announcement in May, 559 00:29:05,166 --> 00:29:07,466 does the President deserve credit for setting the stage for 560 00:29:07,467 --> 00:29:09,400 seeing the announcements that we're seeing now? 561 00:29:09,400 --> 00:29:10,700 Mr. Carney: The country deserves credit. 562 00:29:10,700 --> 00:29:18,734 It's been a remarkable evolution and represents an embrace of the 563 00:29:18,734 --> 00:29:22,699 basic principles of equality that the President feels 564 00:29:22,700 --> 00:29:25,200 strongly about but Americans across the country feel 565 00:29:25,200 --> 00:29:26,633 strongly about. 566 00:29:26,633 --> 00:29:31,133 And I think I can safely say that the President hopes 567 00:29:31,133 --> 00:29:32,266 it continues. 568 00:29:32,266 --> 00:29:34,700 The Press: There are still four Democratic senators who don't support 569 00:29:34,700 --> 00:29:37,633 marriage equality: Mary Landrieu, Tim Johnson, 570 00:29:37,633 --> 00:29:39,567 Joe Manchin, and Mark Pryor. 571 00:29:39,567 --> 00:29:41,000 Does the President want them to make similar announcements 572 00:29:41,000 --> 00:29:41,934 in favor? 573 00:29:41,934 --> 00:29:45,667 Mr. Carney: Obviously, each individual -- whether an elected lawmaker or 574 00:29:45,667 --> 00:29:50,033 anyone else -- makes this evaluation, decision, 575 00:29:50,033 --> 00:29:51,033 himself or herself. 576 00:29:51,033 --> 00:29:56,265 So the President spoke about his views in that interview that you 577 00:29:56,266 --> 00:29:59,934 made reference to, and other lawmakers have been doing so 578 00:29:59,934 --> 00:30:04,633 recently as there have been other issues related to this 579 00:30:04,633 --> 00:30:07,767 being debated and discussed. 580 00:30:07,767 --> 00:30:09,500 But I wouldn't -- he's not here -- 581 00:30:09,500 --> 00:30:12,633 he was not and is not in a position to pass judgment on 582 00:30:12,633 --> 00:30:17,333 others simply to say what he believes very strongly. 583 00:30:17,333 --> 00:30:18,934 Andrei. 584 00:30:18,934 --> 00:30:20,567 The Press: Thank you. 585 00:30:20,567 --> 00:30:23,033 Mr. Donilon is scheduled to Moscow, 586 00:30:23,033 --> 00:30:25,533 so can you tell us anything about the trip; 587 00:30:25,533 --> 00:30:28,399 whether he's bringing a message from the President, 588 00:30:28,400 --> 00:30:30,233 anything at all? 589 00:30:30,233 --> 00:30:34,066 Mr. Carney: I'm afraid I don't have anything more for you beyond the fact 590 00:30:34,066 --> 00:30:37,033 that obviously the National Security Advisor travels 591 00:30:37,033 --> 00:30:41,100 frequently to meet with his counterparts around the world, 592 00:30:41,100 --> 00:30:42,899 and I know he's looking forward to this meeting. 593 00:30:42,900 --> 00:30:46,533 We have a very important relationship with Russia. 594 00:30:46,533 --> 00:30:50,233 We have a number of issues, including North Korea, 595 00:30:50,233 --> 00:30:54,567 as I mentioned earlier, that are subjects of discussion right now 596 00:30:54,567 --> 00:30:56,767 with the Russian leadership. 597 00:30:56,767 --> 00:31:00,500 So I'm sure that that will be one of the many subjects that 598 00:31:00,500 --> 00:31:04,000 Mr. Donilon will discuss with his counterparts on this visit. 599 00:31:04,000 --> 00:31:05,000 Yes, Victoria. 600 00:31:05,000 --> 00:31:07,667 The Press: Jay, there have been a couple of oil spills just in the last 601 00:31:07,667 --> 00:31:10,100 week, and there was one in Canada as well. 602 00:31:10,100 --> 00:31:14,734 Are these impacting or factoring into the President's decision 603 00:31:14,734 --> 00:31:16,899 on Keystone? 604 00:31:16,900 --> 00:31:19,500 Mr. Carney: I got this question last week, and I would simply say that, 605 00:31:19,500 --> 00:31:26,900 as you know, the process of evaluating an application for a 606 00:31:26,900 --> 00:31:29,767 pipeline like Keystone because it crosses international 607 00:31:29,767 --> 00:31:33,500 boundaries is something that is undertaken by the State 608 00:31:33,500 --> 00:31:37,967 Department in keeping with longstanding procedures under 609 00:31:37,967 --> 00:31:39,333 administrations of both parties. 610 00:31:39,333 --> 00:31:42,066 And that process is underway. 611 00:31:42,066 --> 00:31:46,500 For status updates on it, I would refer you to the State 612 00:31:46,500 --> 00:31:51,433 Department, but I have nothing further for you on it from here. 613 00:31:51,433 --> 00:31:57,033 The Press: And also on the question of immigration, 614 00:31:57,033 --> 00:32:02,132 Senator Grassley and some other senators have said that they 615 00:32:02,133 --> 00:32:06,400 want to know from the Gang of Eight by the end of today 616 00:32:06,400 --> 00:32:07,567 exactly what's going on. 617 00:32:07,567 --> 00:32:09,433 They say that it's time for transparency. 618 00:32:09,433 --> 00:32:13,166 They don't want anything more to be behind closed doors. 619 00:32:13,166 --> 00:32:15,966 Are you concerned that if everything gets out into the 620 00:32:15,967 --> 00:32:20,166 open too quickly that the cat could be out of the bag and that 621 00:32:20,166 --> 00:32:22,633 the whole thing could get derailed? 622 00:32:22,633 --> 00:32:25,166 Mr. Carney: Well, I would simply point to the fact that the Gang of Eight, 623 00:32:25,166 --> 00:32:30,700 the so-called Gang of Eight, is comprised of an even mix of 624 00:32:30,700 --> 00:32:34,567 Democrats and Republicans who I'm quite sure are reporting and 625 00:32:34,567 --> 00:32:37,500 discussing issues -- reporting to and discussing issues with 626 00:32:37,500 --> 00:32:40,633 their leadership, and that they've made progress, 627 00:32:40,633 --> 00:32:44,633 as I think members of the Gang of Eight have stated clearly 628 00:32:44,633 --> 00:32:46,500 and publicly. 629 00:32:46,500 --> 00:32:49,834 The procedures that take place on Capitol Hill and how this 630 00:32:49,834 --> 00:32:52,900 bill moves forward, I'll leave to leaders there -- 631 00:32:52,900 --> 00:32:55,400 committee chairmen and the like. 632 00:32:55,400 --> 00:33:00,467 Our focus is on helping that progress continue, 633 00:33:00,467 --> 00:33:09,000 to nudging it forward and having it conclude in a bill that 634 00:33:09,000 --> 00:33:12,567 represents or reflects the President's principles and that 635 00:33:12,567 --> 00:33:17,033 can earn the support of Democrats and Republicans. 636 00:33:17,033 --> 00:33:20,300 And again, as I've said earlier, we are encouraged by the 637 00:33:20,300 --> 00:33:22,200 progress that's been made thus far. 638 00:33:22,200 --> 00:33:27,967 And we are urging those senators involved in the process to keep 639 00:33:27,967 --> 00:33:31,300 it up and to bring it to conclusion. 640 00:33:31,300 --> 00:33:32,633 Donovan, last one. 641 00:33:32,633 --> 00:33:33,667 The Press: Thanks, Jay. 642 00:33:33,667 --> 00:33:34,867 Quick question. 643 00:33:34,867 --> 00:33:37,934 McClatchy has reported, citing Israeli and Palestinian 644 00:33:37,934 --> 00:33:40,667 officials, that the President when he was in the Middle East 645 00:33:40,667 --> 00:33:44,934 was able to persuade Israel to stop announcing new settlement 646 00:33:44,934 --> 00:33:48,966 activities, and also to persuade the Palestinians to stop taking 647 00:33:48,967 --> 00:33:51,500 unilateral actions at the U.N., for example, 648 00:33:51,500 --> 00:33:54,300 for two months to create a diplomatic window for Secretary 649 00:33:54,300 --> 00:33:58,899 of State Kerry to possibly renew talks based on the Saudi Arabia 650 00:33:58,900 --> 00:34:01,433 initiative from 11 years ago. 651 00:34:01,433 --> 00:34:04,100 And I was curious if you could confirm those reports, 652 00:34:04,100 --> 00:34:07,367 and also talk to us about what he hopes to achieve there. 653 00:34:07,367 --> 00:34:10,100 Mr. Carney: Well, I cannot confirm that specific report, 654 00:34:10,100 --> 00:34:14,199 because I think what is true is simply what the President has 655 00:34:14,199 --> 00:34:16,366 long said and others have long said, 656 00:34:16,367 --> 00:34:22,967 which is that we discourage actively both sides from taking 657 00:34:22,967 --> 00:34:26,934 unilateral action that makes it more difficult to come together 658 00:34:26,934 --> 00:34:31,767 to negotiate over the issues that divide them, 659 00:34:31,766 --> 00:34:34,966 and to negotiate in a way that can bring them to peace. 660 00:34:34,967 --> 00:34:37,800 That has long been the case, and I can absolutely confirm that 661 00:34:37,800 --> 00:34:44,767 the President repeated that message to both parties -- 662 00:34:44,766 --> 00:34:49,466 that unilateral actions are not helpful to moving towards peace. 663 00:34:49,467 --> 00:34:53,000 But a specific construct like that, I cannot confirm. 664 00:34:53,000 --> 00:34:55,500 I can simply say that that is our position, and remain -- 665 00:34:55,500 --> 00:34:56,833 has been and is our position. 666 00:34:56,833 --> 00:34:59,066 The Press: Did they agree, though, to this two-month window? 667 00:34:59,066 --> 00:35:00,667 Mr. Carney: I would let the parties speak for themselves. 668 00:35:00,667 --> 00:35:06,500 And again, I'm trying to be relatively clear here, 669 00:35:06,500 --> 00:35:09,333 which is that the -- I can't confirm a construct like that. 670 00:35:09,333 --> 00:35:11,000 I can simply confirm that it is our position, 671 00:35:11,000 --> 00:35:12,834 and it is a position the President reflected in his 672 00:35:12,834 --> 00:35:17,033 conversations, that it is counterproductive for either 673 00:35:17,033 --> 00:35:19,500 side -- whether it's the Palestinians through the U.N., 674 00:35:19,500 --> 00:35:23,400 or the Israelis through settlement construction -- 675 00:35:23,400 --> 00:35:26,600 to take unilateral action that makes it more difficult to 676 00:35:26,600 --> 00:35:30,000 engage in constructive negotiations towards peace. 677 00:35:30,000 --> 00:35:30,967 Thanks, everybody. 678 00:35:30,967 --> 00:35:32,266 The Press: Jay, we may have missed it -- North Korea. 679 00:35:32,266 --> 00:35:34,700 Does the White House see any imminent threat of a nuclear 680 00:35:34,700 --> 00:35:37,332 missile launch at some point from North Korea? 681 00:35:37,333 --> 00:35:44,200 Mr. Carney: Well, we have been taking prudent measures in response to 682 00:35:44,200 --> 00:35:47,533 the increased provocative behavior and rhetoric emanating 683 00:35:47,533 --> 00:35:52,100 from Pyongyang. 684 00:35:52,100 --> 00:35:55,066 That is a matter of concern, and it is something that we 685 00:35:55,066 --> 00:35:58,133 obviously are in regular consultation about with our 686 00:35:58,133 --> 00:36:01,933 allies in Seoul and Tokyo, as well as with our partners around 687 00:36:01,934 --> 00:36:03,367 the region and the world. 688 00:36:03,367 --> 00:36:05,633 I spoke earlier about our conversations with the Chinese 689 00:36:05,633 --> 00:36:10,232 and the Russians, asking them to use their influence with the 690 00:36:10,233 --> 00:36:15,033 North Koreans to get them to -- to persuade them to cease this 691 00:36:15,033 --> 00:36:16,866 kind of provocative behavior. 692 00:36:16,867 --> 00:36:18,600 Having said that, I think it's important to note, 693 00:36:18,600 --> 00:36:22,700 as veterans of this issue from past administrations have made 694 00:36:22,700 --> 00:36:27,834 clear, that this is a pattern of behavior we have seen before. 695 00:36:27,834 --> 00:36:32,399 And it has never achieved anything substantial for the 696 00:36:32,400 --> 00:36:36,800 North Korean people who continue to suffer from the decisions 697 00:36:36,800 --> 00:36:42,834 made by the regime to pursue a path that is in direct 698 00:36:42,834 --> 00:36:45,933 contradiction with their international obligations, 699 00:36:45,934 --> 00:36:48,400 and that comes at the expense of the health and welfare of the 700 00:36:48,400 --> 00:36:49,767 North Korean people. 701 00:36:49,767 --> 00:36:51,767 Thanks, everybody.