Dem Leaders Discuss Stimulus With Obama Camp

By Martin Kady II

(The Politico)  Democratic leaders are coordinating a potential lame duck session with the Obama campaign, discussing an economic stimulus package between $100 billion and $150 billion.

Pelosi and Democratic leaders plan to unveil details at an economic forum tomorrow.

In the stimulus, Democrats are considering expansion of food stamps, extension of unemployment insurance, aid to states facing a budget crunch and billions in infrastructure spending for bridges and roads. The infrastructure spending in particular is designed to create jobs in bridge and road construction.

There is a fundamental difference, however, between Obama and Democratic leaders on one subject—how to pay for the stimulus. Democrats don't have a "paygo" proposal while Obama would pay for the stimulus with a windfall profits tax.

Also under debate is whether the stimulus would have tax rebates or tax credits for individuals.