Exchange With Reporters Prior to Discussions With President Rafael Callejas of Honduras

Legislation on Social Programs

Q. Mr. President, do you think your feelings about the blame game have been misinterpreted?

The President. I hope not. I've made it very clear. you heard me speak on it. I hope it's clear.

Q. Your remarks on Monday and your spokesman's remarks?

The President. My remarks on Monday about what?

Q. Blaming Congress for not passing your programs.

The President. Well, I'd like to get them passed. But I really don't think this is the time for blame; I think this is a time to move forward. And I think what Marlin said got grossly misinterpreted.

So I don't want to discuss it anymore. I've got a distinguished visitor and a good friend here. The man is doing a first-class job down there, and we've got some business to talk about.

Q. You're not taking him to the woodshed -- Marlin?

The President. Absolutely not.

Q. Do you think that Clinton's playing politics -- --

The President. Helen [Helen Thomas, United Press International], you're out of here. Come on. We've got to go to work.