Bush weighs increase in U.S. military strength

‘The calling of our generation’
Bush was asked whether he was like Lyndon Johnson, who had difficulty sleeping during the difficult days of the Vietnam War.

In response, the president said it was difficult knowing that “my decisions have caused young men and women to lose their lives.” And yet, he said, the United States must prevail in the global war on terror—and will.

It “is the calling of our generation,” he said.

On domestic politics, Bush said that he supports a Democratic proposal to increase the U.S. minimum wage but said it should be coupled with tax and regulatory relief for small businesses.

“I believe we should do it in a way that does not punish the millions of small businesses that are creating most of the new jobs in our country,” Bush told a news conference. “So, I support pairing it with targeted tax and regulatory relief to help these small businesses stay competitive and to help keep our economy growing.”

Democrats, who took control of Congress in November elections, have said they will push to raise the minimum wage over two years to $7.25 per hour from $5.15 per hour.

Bush also said he saw an opening for compromise with the Democratic-controlled Congress that convenes on Jan. 4. He cited Social Security and immigration as two major areas in which common ground might be found. He also called for fresh efforts to reduce the United States’ dependence on foreign oil.

Regarding foreign policy, the president repeated his insistence that Iran suspend its nuclear program if it wants to hold talks with the United States and he urged Syria to halt its involvement in Lebanon's affairs.

The Baker Commission had urged the administration to hold talks with the two nations, key neighbors of Iraq, as part of a strategy of improving the situation in the region.

Cheney's daughter?
The president also was asked about the pregnancy of Mary Cheney, the openly gay daughter of Vice President Dick Cheney.

“I know Mary and I like her and I know she is going to be a fine, loving mother,” said Bush. Neither he nor his questioner referred to Cheney’s partner.

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