Post date: Dec 21, 2013 12:57:43 AM
R Reports - PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA,
"It's the most wonderful press conference of the year."
President Barack Obama gives his last news conference of 2013 before heading off for Christmas break.
While he highlighted gains in the economy and job market, Obama also said his biggest regret in the past year was the rocky rollout of his healthcare law. PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA, SAYING:
"Since I'm in charge, obviously, we screwed it up."
At a time when his approval ratings are at an all-time low, Obama says he will try to find middle ground on the NSA's surveillance programs that have come under scrutiny following leaks by Edward Snowden.
PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA,
"In light of the disclosures that have taken place, whatever benefits the configuration of this particular program may have had, may be outweighed by the concerns people have on its potential abuse and if that's the case there may be another way of skinning the cat."
Obama also laid out his priorities for 2014, topping the list, comprehensive immigration reform.
PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA, SAYING:
"We can get immigration reform done. We've got a concept that has bipartisan support. Let's see if we can break through on the politics on this."
A lighter moment came during the news conference when Obama was asked about his New Year's Resolution.
PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA,
"My new year's resolution is to be nicer to White House press corps."
Obama says he's looking forward to getting back to work in the New Year after some much needed rest and relaxation in Hawaii.