As Obama's 2013 budget gets to Congress, Republicans say it repeats failed policies The USA Times

G8 leaders discuss Afghanistan, European crisis, other global issues at Camp David . Student killed, 7 others hurt, by blast outside high school in southern Italy . Miss Universe Canada pageant to crown winner after controversial race . Christian youths continue to protest against Lady Gaga's upcoming Manila concerts . Guest lineups for the Sunday news shows . Rocket set to blast off, open new space era with commercial flight to orbiting station . Greek parliament dissolved after coalition talks failure; new elections set for June 17 . Obama greets his G-8 guests at Camp David, teasing Hollande and sympathizing with for Merkel . Blind Chinese activist leaves Beijing hospital, prepares to depart for the United States . NBA Capsules: Bryant scores 26, Lakers cut Thunder's series lead to 2-1 .

Saturday, May 19, 2012

As Obama's 2013 budget gets to Congress, Republicans say it repeats failed policies

(AP Photo/CBS News, Chris Usher)

WASHINGTON - President Barack Obama unveiled a $3.8 trillion spending plan on Monday for 2013 that seeks to achieve $4 trillion in deficit reduction over the next decade but does little to restrain growth in the U.S. government's huge health benefit programs, a major cause of future deficits.

Obama's new budget was immediately attacked by opposition Republicans as a retread of previously rejected ideas. The budget battle is likely to be a major component of the autumn election campaign.

The president would achieve $1.5 trillion of the deficit reductions in tax increases on the wealthy and by removing certain corporate tax breaks. Obama rejected Republican charges of class warfare. In his budget message, he said, "This is not about class warfare. This is about the nation's welfare."