Congress is set to send Bush a bill that contains a troop withdrawal timetable, which he promises to veto. Looking beyond that, the president is reaching out to lawmakers from both parties by inviting them to the White House.
Here’s a transcript of what transpired:
BUSH:> I appreciate your attendance, Democratic members of Congress, I am sure we can amicably find a solution to our impasse regarding the war in Iraq.
PELOSI (D):> Thank you for inviting us Mr. President. First I wish to say……
CHENEY (VP):> I don’t think we wish to hear what you want to say, Mrs. Speaker!
DOMENICI (D):> Mr. President, we would like to discuss bringing the troops home….
BUSH:> That’s already been decided. We aren’t bring them home.
CHENEY:> Don’t bring that up again Mr. Domenici!
ROVE:> We invited you here for a friendly discussion, but you Democrats appear to be getting aggressive. Right Mr. President?
BUSH:> Right!
CLINTON(D):> Mr. President, we have come up with a…..
CHENEY:> Shut up Hillary, we’re not interested in your opinion!
KENNEDY (D):> Just a minute, Mr. Vice President we wish to state our….
CHENEY:> You shut your mouth also, Edward!
BUSH:> Your thoughts are well taken, ladies and gentlemen, now let me give mine. We are going to keep our troops there until the Middle East is a peaceful oasis, even if it takes a hundred years, and I will veto anything else . Now let’s here your thoughts, as this is a give and take discussion.
BIDEN(D):> That may not be acceptable to the American people, Mr. President, May I………
ROVE:> We don’t give a diddly-shit what the American people say. Right George?
BUSH:> What ever you say, Karl.
Byrd(D)> Mr. President, I’ve been in the senate almost since Abe Lincoln, which gives me great wisdom and my views should be respected. This war in Iraq……
CHENEY:> Sit down, you old fart!
BUSH:> It certainly clears the air, this meeting, to hear your views. I appreciate your coming. We will certainly consider your options. Is there anything else I should say, Karl?
ROVE:> No Mr. President, your viewpoints were brilliant as usual, you read them well, and I think you better start packing for your Crawford vacation.
BUSH:> Again I thank you all for attending, There’s nothing to clear the air like a frank airing of opinions. Meeting adjourned.