Releasing statements.

One good reason is that a statement is scripted and says what people want. Consider Bush's recent quote, which has been oft reported: "Our enemies are innovative and resourceful, and so are we," Bush said. "They never stop thinking about new ways to harm our country and our people, and neither do we."

Also, people don't have to face the press and get a bunch of other questions they aren't prepared to or don't want to answer.