Dems, President Get Serious On Iraq Compromise

After a day of partisan theatrics—what the Politico notes may rank as the Capitol's most celebrated sendoff for a doomed bill—work gets serious on a compromise war spending bill that may include benchmarks but no timelines. Bush meets with congressional leaders to begin formal negotiations today, even as the House makes a futile effort to override yesterday's veto.

Alternatives on the table include breaking the bill into several pieces, to separate spending from benchmarks and a withdrawal timetable. John Murtha has proposed a two-month "bridge" funding bill to support combat operations while negotiations continue. Speaker Pelosi aims to finalize the issue by Memorial Day. (More Nancy Pelosi stories.)