Wednesday Briefing

Budget, Egypt and entitlement programs top the agenda in Carney's first session with reporters.

"I understand where you come from. Literally."

On Obama's 2012 budget:
The fiscal plan "demonstrates his seriousness" and is the only budget out there that "reduces spending and brings down the deficit."

On Egypt and the attacks on CBS reporter Lara Logan:
"We have stated clearly what our position is...those responsible for these acts...need to be held accountable."

On Social Security:
This is "a problem of long term debt." Obama wants to "make it stronger and solvent for the future."

A solution "cannot harm current retirees."

On closing Guantanamo Bay:
"The president remains committed to closing" the prison.

On Rick Scott's decision to reject fed funds for high speed rail:
"We think that's an unfortunate decision... There's been a lot of bipartisan support" for that infrastructure.