And it has repeatedly assured a skeptical Congress of the wondrous commercial spinoffs of "Star Wars."

But some of the most intensive talks are going to take place with a skeptical Congress.

Mr. Clinton told a skeptical Congress that by creating jobs, Nafta could reduce the number of illegal emigrants who cross the border.

The White House challenge now is to win from a skeptical Congress the right to negotiate further trade deals.

President Clinton directed the officials to pitch the change to a skeptical Congress.

Now under pressure from a skeptical Congress and doubters within its ranks, the Administration appears to be backing away from its original commitment.

To placate a skeptical Congress, the Clinton Administration has looked for short cuts that give the illusory impression of meaningful change on the ground.

The effort to sell the plan to a skeptical Congress and voters flopped.

The Clinton Administration has played down this expense while it cajoles a skeptical Congress to support the sending of troops.

We give the winner a blank check - and ask him to cash it in a skeptical Congress.