Public Option May Be Dropped
The Obama administration appears to be getting closer to dropping the public option as a proposal, shifting to a co-op plan with a better chance of passing. “The president is going to continue to try to persuade everyone of the great value of having a true public plan,” an unnamed Democrat close to the White House told the New York Times. “But at the end of the day, I believe he recognizes that there are other, arguably less effective, ways to achieve greater coverage, more choice, better quality and lower cost in our system.”
Obama’s Day Ahead
President Obama will deliver remarks at the VFW National Convention in Phoenix, at 2 p.m. ET. He and the First Lady will depart from Phoenix at 3:20 p.m. ET, and arrive back at the White House at 7:35 p.m. ET.
Biden’s Day Ahead
Vice President Biden will be in Washington, DC, and will attend the President’s Daily Briefing in the morning. At 4 p.m. ET, he will administer the ceremonial swearing-in for Ambassador to South Africa Don Gips.
WaPo: Economists See Further Headwinds Against Recovery
The Washington Post reports that economists remain pessimistic on the degree to which the American economy will recover, due to lingering effects of the credit crisis. “Credit fuels housing. It fuels consumer durable goods. It fuels business investment. It’s in every part of the economy,” said Carmen M. Reinhart of the University of Maryland. “Credit makes recessions after a financial crisis longer, and all the signs are that [it] is happening this time as well.”
Budget Deficit Reaches Record High, But Smaller Than Expected
The Hill reports that the budget deficit is now projected to be $1.6 trillion when the fiscal year ends September 30. This is the single highest deficit ever, due to the stimulus bill and the financial bailouts — but is in fact less than the $1.8 trillion that had been widely expected.
Energy Bill Work Goes On In Background
Roll Call reports that energy legislation has been pushed to the back burner, with most of the debate and publicity now going to health care reform — but the work continues apace in committee. “In our hallway, it looks like National Airport with all the comings and goings,” said a senior Democratic staffer on the Environment and Public Works Committee said. “We’re pretty much at full tilt.”
Despite Recession, Wealthy Self-Funding Campaigns Continue
The Hill reports that the recession has not stopped wealthy people in both parties from self-financing their campaigns. So far this cycle, 30 candidates have already spent $100,000 or more of their own money on campaigns for the House or Senate.
DeLay To Appear On Dancing With The Stars
Former House Majority Leader Tom DeLay (R-TX) will be a contestant on Dancing With The Stars, Jake Tapper reports.
