Perino: Bush "looking forward to discussing issues" @ news conference, 9:15 a.m. ET this morning

Bush to hold news conference Monday

President scheduled to address media at 9:15 a.m. ET



WASHINGTON - President Bush will hold a news conference at 9:15 a.m. ET on Monday, the White House said.

Bush will make a brief opening statement, commenting on the important role the White House press corps has in covering presidents and the White House, and then will take questions, spokeswoman Dana Perino said.

The president is looking forward to discussing the important events of the last eight years as well as issues in the news today, Perino added.

Bush leaves office at midday Jan. 20, when President-elect Barack Obama takes the oath and moves into the Executive Mansion, becoming the 44th president.

One topic that is likely to get attention is the ailing economy. Bush and Obama have been preparing the ground in Congress to request the second $350 billion in emergency relief fund.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/28617979/