NATION : Bush Almost Tough on Budget

WASHINGTON —  President Bush promised today to turn up the political heat on Democrats unless they produce a deficit-reduction plan by the end of the week, Republican lawmakers said.

However, the White House pulled back later, saying Bush was not imposing any deadlines and expects budget talks to intensify in September when Congress returns from its summer recess.

Congressional Democrats gave no indication they were ready to offer a budget proposal.

Noting that Republicans have been hit with tough criticism for their package, House Budget Committee Chairman Leon E. Panetta (D-Carmel Valley) said, “We didn’t pledge that every time the Republicans slit their wrists that we would slit ours.”