Senate GOP leaders concede that some of the Democratic provisions might succeed, though they still insist that they will push a budget through the Senate by week's end reflecting Bush's priorities. It could be a little over, it could be a little under. Just as Tuesday's Democratic effort to switch some money from the tax cut to prescription drug subsidies was aimed at bolstering a popular initiative, they have other amendments ready aimed at shrinking the tax cut and beefing up defense, agriculture and other politically appealing programs. For each of those, Republicans had less expensive alternatives ready. Congress' budget, which does not need the president's signature, sets overall spending and tax targets.
Later bills enact actual changes in taxes and spending and fill in the details.