Obama draws line on stimulus compromise

WASHINGTON -- President Obama is willing to change elements of his economic stimulus plan to meet objections in Congress, but he won't agree to increase its cost significantly or weaken its impact, his top economic adviser said Tuesday.

As the president conducted five television interviews to promote the $800 billion-plus package, National Economic Council Director Lawrence Summers said Obama wants to focus on the economy's needs, not the relatively small spending items Republicans have criticized.

"We're focused on the pie, not the crumbs," Summers told USA TODAY. "The president's prepared to compromise … but our focus is on the fact that the American economy badly needs help."

To back up its case, the White House provided a 50-state report estimating how many jobs would be created or saved, how many families would reap tax cuts or college tax credits, and other benefits.

The House approved a two-year, $819 billion package of new spending and tax cuts last week without any GOP support, and the Senate this week is debating a version nearing $900 billion. Obama, who originally proposed $775 billion, wants to hold down the price tag, Summers said.

Senate Republicans seek to slash income and corporate tax rates as well as the overall level of spending in the bill. "We need to sober up here and take a look at what we're doing," said Senate GOP leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky.

Summers said Obama wants to keep his tax cuts but will consider other changes. He said "Buy American" provisions for U.S. manufacturers could "send a protectionist signal."

The president "has been prepared to walk a long mile for bipartisan support," Summers said. In the end, he said, Obama wants the best possible package delivered to his desk by Feb. 16.

If Republicans won't support that package, Summers said, "it defines those who aren't prepared to support major action to help the economy."