Obama: Extortion can't be routine in US democracy

WASHINGTON -- President Barack Obama says he's fighting the budget battle because "we can't make extortion routine as part of our democracy."

Obama says he's willing to not only negotiate fiscal issues with Republicans, but changes to health care law. But he says first he wants them to pass a bill to stop a partial government shutdown.

Obama noted in a news conference at the White House Tuesday that the shutdown already made him cancel a trip to Asia this week. He argued the shutdown is hurting U.S. credibility around the world and - quote - "makes it look like we don't have our act together."

Obama urges Boehner to hold vote to reopen gov't

President Barack Obama says he told House Speaker John Boehner he's willing to negotiate with Republicans on their priorities, but not under the threat of "economic chaos."

Obama spoke to reporters at the White House Tuesday in the midst of the eighth day of a partial government shutdown and a few hours after calling Boehner.

Obama says he urged Boehner to hold a vote immediately to reopen the government.

The White House says Obama also urged Boehner to hold a vote that would allow the government to borrow more money.

Senate Democrats are planning a vote this week to provide new borrowing, without new spending cuts Republicans want.

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barack obama, john boehner, republicans, obamacare, health care, health insurance, congress, government shutdown, furloughs, politics

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