President Obama Friday called claims that the White House was involved in leaking classified national security information “offensive and wrong.” The President said his administration has a “zero tolerance” for leaking classified information and will conduct an investigation into the release of information on drone attacks and cyberattacks against terrorism. The President held a news conference on the financial crisis in Europe and the state the U.S. economy, urging Congress to act on passing the remaining parts of the American Jobs Act.
The President said he is seeing positive growth in most sectors, but that state and local government hiring is moving in the wrong direction. He called on Congress to pass his jobs plan, which would increase hiring for teachers and public safety officers, and also boost hiring in the construction sector.
He also addressed the economic situation in the Eurozone, saying that the U.S. is keeping a close eye on the European banking system. The President said he believes that European leaders are moving in the right direction to strengthen their banks.
Earlier this week, some Republican Senators, including the President's 2008 opponent, Sen. John McCain (R-AZ), accused the president of authorizing certain intelligence leaks to bolster his national security reputation in an election year. The President vehemently denied this and cited his efforts to find and stop leaks throughout his administration.