Transcript: President Bush and Jordan's King Abdullah II

QUESTION: Sir, in a new poll, there's 55 percent of Americans (OFF-MIKE) proposal on Social Security. Do you worry you're losing ground here in the quest to get your message across?

BUSH: Well, first in that same survey, I was heartened to see that over two-thirds of Americans recognize we have a problem. And, therefore, the administration and members of both parties in the legislative branch must come together to permanently solve the problem. 

My first concern was that members of Congress would think the public didn't think there was a problem. But they do. 

And I am mindful that when the public says there's a problem, we've got to work to solve it. 

And secondly, I was also heartened to see in that survey that many people believe younger workers ought to be allowed, at their option, to set aside some of their own money in a personal savings account. That principle was embraced by a lot of folks in the survey. 

My view about taking on a tough issue is that's what the American people expect the president to do. 

And I look forward to working with members of the Congress to develop a plan. I've suggested ideas. I've suggested that we stop this partisan bickering and come together to work for a solution. 

And I'm looking forward to finding that solution. That's what the people expect. 

And so, no, I'm just getting started on the issue, and I'm enjoying every minute of it. I like to take big issues to the American people. I like to say to the American people, "You sent us here to Washington for a reason, and that is to solve problems." 

And we've got a problem, the American people say we've got a problem, and they're going to expect people to come to the table and they're not going to like it when they see people not coming to the table. 

QUESTION: (OFF-MIKE)

BUSH: It's up to His Majesty. He's a generous guy, unlike me. 

(LAUGHTER)

QUESTION: (OFF-MIKE) toward the region at this time?

ABDULLAH: Well, I'm, again, very supportive of President Abbas. I think he's a man of his word. And I think that you'll see him give 110 percent to deal with the security issues and to push the peace process forward. 

I truly believe that in this man Prime Minister Sharon has a partner for peace, and I'm very optimistic that the two leaders that the process will go forward and go forward positively. 

BUSH: Thank you. Good job.