Congress' OK of big spending bill shows GOP split (AP)

AP - Congress has sent President Barack Obama a bipartisan spending bill that averts a federal shutdown, but widespread Republican defections underscore rifts between the party's conservatives and pragmatists.

Health bill's prospects abruptly improve; Obama delays trip (AP)

AP - President Barack Obama delayed next week's Asian trip on Friday to seize on suddenly improved prospects for his sweeping health care legislation, as House Speaker Nancy Pelosi forecast final passage of the overhaul in days.

Democrats pare differences over health overhaul (AP)

AP - President Barack Obama delayed a scheduled Asian trip on Friday as House Speaker Nancy Pelosi forecast final passage of sweeping health care legislation in days.