Obama to sell Syria policy on television

David Jackson | USA TODAY

Expect to see a lot of President Obama talking about Syria this week, even before his big speech Tuesday night.

Obama has six television interviews lined up Monday — with anchors at NBC, CBS, ABC, PBS, CNN and Fox News — seeking to persuade members of the public and Congress to back a military strike against Syria over chemical weapons.

Previewing his remarks in a radio address Saturday, Obama said, "Failing to respond to this outrageous attack would increase the risk that chemical weapons could be used again; that they would fall into the hands of terrorists who might use them against us, and it would send a horrible signal to other nations that there would be no consequences for their use of these weapons."

The Syrian government has denied responsibility for a chemical weapons attack on members of the opposition Aug. 21.

Syrian President Bashar Assad has conducted his own interview with Charlie Rose, a session that will air Monday on CBS and PBS.

Obama faces intense opposition to military action from both U.S. lawmakers and the public.

He and aides are conducting a major lobbying effort, including phone calls to members of Congress and private briefings.

In addition to Obama's television efforts, White House Chief of Staff Chief Denis McDonough hit all five major Sunday morning interview programs.

Vice President Biden will host a dinner for key members of Congress.

National security adviser Susan Rice is scheduled to give a major Syria speech Monday to the New America Foundation.

Secretary of State John Kerry is seeking support for military action from Arab nations.

Obama received updates on Syria throughout the weekend and called wavering members of Congress.

It all leads up to the big speech Tuesday and even bigger congressional votes in the days to follow.