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Obama to Host Senate Democratic Conference Tuesday

President Barack Obama will host the entire Senate Democratic Conference at the White House for lunch on Tuesday.White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs characterized the session as simply another version of the lawmakers’ regular Tuesday luncheon, only this one will be held at the White House and with the participation of the president. Gibbs said whether to continue funding the “Cash for Clunkers— program will be a topic of discussion, saying Obama wants the Senate to approve another $2 billion to continue the initiative of cashing in old vehicles for newer, fuel-efficient cars. Gibbs said the program will have to shutter by Friday if the Senate does not act but would carry on through September if Members allow the cash infusion.The House voted last week to allow for the extra $2 billion in spending.At the luncheon, Obama plans to make the case for the fuel savings that will be achieved under the program. “It’s good for our energy security and our environment,— Gibbs said.Gibbs said health care and energy would also be on the menu for the sit-down, which will be held on Obama’s birthday. The Senate is slated to adjourn for the August recess later this week, with plans to take up both of those complex issues in the fall.

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