Obama talks tougher on Iran violence

President Barack Obama today declared the United States and the entire world “appalled and outraged” by Iran’s violent efforts to crush dissent and for the first time expressed significant doubt about the legitimacy of the national election at the root of the upheaval. The president suggested that Iran would face consequences for brutally beating back protest, warning that the way the country responds in the days ahead will shape its relationship with other countries, including the United States. He would not specify what any punishment might be. Five months into his presidency, Obama addressed reporters under mounting pressure from Republican lawmakers who have accused him of being too passive in challenging Iran’s crackdown. Obama said he has been consistent and scoffed at the suggestion that Republicans influenced his stand. On the home front, Obama suggested that he ultimately would be willing to accept a health care plan without a government-run option for consumers. And on the recession, he said it was too soon to propose a second stimulus plan to jolt the economy, even as he acknowledged the unemployment rate is headed over 10%.