The president-elect said it is important that (domestic) car makers survive the current crisis, although he (accused) the industry's (executives) of taking a "head in the sand approach" that has prevented their companies from becoming more competitive.
"Congress is doing the exact right thing by asking for a (conditions-based) assistance package that holds the industry's feet to the fire and gives the industry some short-term assistance," he said.
(In addition to) the policy issues, Obama avoided a direct answer when asked whether he has quit (cigarettes) as he prepares to move into a no-smoking White House.
"I have done a terrific job, under the (circumstances), of making myself much healthier. And I think that you will not see any (violations) of these rules in the White House," he said.