Q. The President hasn’t held a news conference since last July. He’s held two this year. Isn’t that a long time? I mean, with all due respect to you, Ari, you’re a very good spokesman, I suppose, for the White House — (laughter) –
ARI FLEISCHER: Keep going, Helen. (Laughter.)
Q. — really would like to question the President, all of the statements he’s made. And it can only come from him.
Q. Hear, hear.
MR. FLEISCHER: Helen, your views on this are well-known, and you’ve articulated them –
Q. Well, that isn’t –
MR. FLEISCHER: No, I understand the press’s views on this. Let me take that.
Q. I hope it’s the consensus in this room that reporters want to question the President.
MR. FLEISCHER: As I say, your views, the press’s views on this are well-known. The President continues to take a great many questions from reporters in numerous different forums –
Q. It isn’t the same thing.
MR. FLEISCHER: — and I understand that you would like him to take questions in the form of a news conference. I assure you we take a look at this often, and –
Q. And say no. (Laughter.)
MR. FLEISCHER: And say no.
