Vice President Addresses Press on Iran Policy and Domestic Spending

The vice president held a press briefing to answer questions from White House correspondents. The session addressed U.S. policy toward Iran, a proposed spending measure, and recent domestic incidents. The vice president stated that the United States does not have a national healthcare system because American troops are stationed in Europe.

The vice president also said taxpayers should accept a $1.8 billion spending measure because taxes are not applied to overtime or tips. The vice president described personal travel of 22 hours to Islamabad and 24 hours on the return as part of negotiations.

The vice president expressed regret over a bombing at a San Diego mosque, noting its proximity to a restaurant visited with family.

The vice president said the goal is to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. The vice president noted that other countries might seek nuclear weapons if Iran acquired one. The vice president said the United States does not automatically assume guilt for those accused of crimes. The vice president added that prosecuting individuals solely for differing political views is wrong.

The vice president responded to questions about the economy and recent policy statements. The vice president said some questions had misrepresented prior answers. The vice president made an early remark about temporarily handling additional duties following the birth of a child.