In a clear prelude to the republican persuasive strategy, Bush challenged Obama on his national security credentials and his understanding of the threat posed by terrorism.
The following is the transcript of the President's remarks at the press conference yesterday.
Q Mr. President, do you believe if we have the kind of rapid pull-out from Iraq that Democrats are talking about, that we would be at greater risk of a terrorist attack here at home? And when Senator Obama was asked a similar question, he said, "If al Qaeda is forming a base in Iraq, then we will have to act in a way that secures the American homeland and our interests abroad." So I'm wondering if --
THE PRESIDENT: That's an interesting comment. If al Qaeda is securing a al Qaeda base -- yes, well, that's exactly what they've been trying to do for the past four years. That's their stated intention, was to create enough chaos and disorder to establish a base from which to either launch attacks or spread a caliphate. And the intent of the surge was to send more Marines into the area that -- where they had proclaimed their desire to set up a base. That was Anbar province. And so, yes, that's one of the challenges we face, is denying al Qaeda a safe haven anywhere. And their intentions -- that's what they said, that they would like to have a base or safe haven in Anbar province.
Points
- The most cogent line of republican attack will almost certainly be on national security. This is the main strength of John McCain and a serious weakness of Barack Obama.
- The president will enter into the debate in coming months. Although he is unpopular, when he speaks forcefully concerning national security, I believe he is still quite effective at persuading conservatives and independents.
- The aura of the presidency is an incredible asset. By holding a news conference from the West Wing press briefing room, the level of persuasiveness is increased.
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