Looking to claim the high ground in the political battle, the president this week designated three senior officials to negotiate with Congress, including the secretary of health and human services, Michael Leavitt. He has also indicated that he would be willing to increase funding to cover 500,000 children who are now eligible for SCHIP, but not enrolled. "As it is clear that this legislation lacks sufficient support to become law, now is the time for Congress to stop playing politics and to join the president in finding common ground to reauthorize this vital program," the White House said in a statement. The president's chief spokeswoman said at a press briefing: "We won this round on SCHIP."

Children.
Come to a compromise already.

Bush needs to settle this issue quickly. That would
take that issue away from Hillary's "talking points".
One GOP presidential contender said, "If you think
health-cares expensive now, just wait 'til it's "FREE"