Mr. Reagan threatened to veto the measure after meeting with Republicans who object to the extraneous provisions.

To try to marshal support, Mr. Gephardt has met with Republicans in Congress, a rarity for him.

You used to meet every Wednesday with moderate Republicans for lunch.

The panel met late into the nigh, with Democrats offering dozens of amendments to try to save programs from cuts, and Republicans systematically voting them down.

He is scheduled to meet with Republicans next week on Capitol Hill and deliver a high-profile political speech next month in California.

"It's been an amazing week," Mr. Bush said on Friday at the Capitol after he met with Republicans.

Mr. Hastert met with senior Republicans today.

On Thursday the President announced plans to meet with Republicans and Democrats from around the country next month to share ideas about overhauling the welfare system.

Mr. Bryant is scheduled to meet tomorrow with Republicans to discuss the issue.