SPOTLIGHT: PLOTTING A PARTY'S COURSE
White House officials said that President Obama will announce by the middle of this week the next step in passing health reform legislation, despite saying at last Thursday's reform summit that he would allow up to six more weeks for negotiations with Republicans. White House aides said that Obama this week will release a revised version of his own health reform proposal that will address some of the issues voiced by Republicans at the summit. Obama on Saturday in his weekly Internet and radio address reiterated his willingness to work with Republicans but also stated his resolve to pass reform by whatever means possible. Meanwhile, Democrats have been considering their options for moving forward with reform legislation. Observers and lawmakers have said that Democrats likely will use budget reconciliation to pass an overhaul package.