Problem Solvers pushing for middle ground on stimulus plan

WASHINGTON, D.C. (WNAX) – Time is running out for Congress to come up with an economic stimulus plan and also a funding bill to keep the government operating into next year.

Members of the “Problem Solvers” caucus are pushing for a middle ground compromise.

Minnesota Third District democratic Congressman Dean Phillips says the $900 billion plan they are backing doesn’t call for direct payments.

Phillips says those initial payments last spring weren’t as effective as they had hoped.

South Dakota republican Congressman Dusty Johnson says it looks like the stimulus bill will have to be connected to the government funding plan.

Johnson says it will be difficult to hold enough votes on any compromise package.

Congress is looking to adjourn for the year by the end of the week.