The budget resolution now goes to the Senate, where it is expected to pass with the support of moderate Democrats, perhaps as early as Thursday. Democrats say the president's planned tax cut favours the rich, while short-changing education and health care. The Republicans say otherwise. While Wednesday's vote is significant, the budget resolution is not binding. It does, however, set general targets for legislators to meet when drafting specific appropriations bills.
Analysts say there is still much horse-trading to be done before a final budget is ready.
But they add that it seems certain Mr Bush will get something very much like the tax cuts and spending plans he wants. The US Government's fiscal year 2002 begins in October.