In a press conference early Wednesday morning, President Bush threatened to invade American University if weapons inspectors are not allowed soon onto the Washington, D.C. campus.
"We cannot allow such a threat to go unchecked in our own backyard," Bush told the crowd of about 200 media members. "We MUST see to it that [AU President] Len Badner opens his borders to the inspectors."
Despite the pressure from Bush, Badner is not expected to open Glover Gate to Hans Brix and the other United Nations inspectors anytime soon.
Though Brix was allowed to search Mary Graydon Center and Hughes Hall last month, Badner has not allowed him see Lot 18, which is where Bush suspects Badner may be hiding chemical weapons.
Campus media spokesman Howard Johnson said he was not concerned by Bush's speech.
"Our school does not have any chemical weapons," Johnson said. "The reason we are keeping Lot 18 private is, well, Bush's birthday is coming up soon, and Badner is setting up a big surprise party."
Johnson then said he assumed this conversation is off the record, before winking and screaming "APRIL FOOLS" and running away.
