http://us.news3.yimg.com/img.news.yahoo.com/util/anysize/380,http%3A%2F%2Fus.news2.yimg.com%2Fus.yimg.com%2Fp%2Fnm%2F20050429%2Fbush_approval2005_graphic.gifhttp://story.news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&cid=578&u=/nm/20050429/pl_nm/bush_dc_7Hoping to jump-start negotiations with lawmakers and win over skeptical Americans, Bush said he wanted to ensure that "future generations receive benefits equal to or greater than the benefits today's seniors get" but offered no details.
Bush brushed aside his sagging poll numbers, saying, "You know, if a president tries to govern based on polls, you're kind of like a dog chasing your tail."
He stood his ground on his choice for ambassador to the
United Nations, saying John Bolton's no-nonsense style would be an asset in pushing for reform at the world body. Democrats have accused Bolton of abusive behavior in past jobs and say he is unsuitable for the diplomatic post. "John Bolton's a blunt guy. Sometimes people say I'm a little too blunt," he said.
Bush acknowledged there was little he could do to address soaring gasoline prices. He said his administration would encourage oil producers with excess capacity to maximize production, guard against price-gouging and work toward long-term solutions. On Iraq, he put a sunny face on the situation there despite rising violence, praising the formation of an Iraqi government and saying U.S. commanders were optimistic Iraqis ultimately will be able to provide for their own defense and allow U.S. forces to return home.