But Democratic leaders are pushing for a smaller tax package. Also, Wall Street is nervous that a large cut could harm the economy by sending the federal budget back into deficit. Political analysts say there is room for Bush and Congress to agree on limited tax cuts. Oil and natural gas companies would like to see Bush open up more federal lands to exploration, as he pledged during his campaign. He faces an uphill battle over opening the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, the area he cited most often.
Federal law requires congressional approval to allow drilling there.
Also, environmentalists are pressuring lame-duck Clinton to declare the tract a national monument, which would make it more difficult for Congress to open.