GOP seeks 1-week extension as gov’t shutdown looms

WASHINGTON (AP) - Failing to reach agreement in late-night talks at the White House, House Republicans pushed a plan today that would hold off for another week the threat of a government shutdown while Congress and the Obama administration struggle to reach a budget deal. Democrats pressing for a longer-term solution rejected the short-term approach as a political maneuver meant to blame them if the government closes its doors Saturday. President Barack Obama emerged from the negotiations late Wednesday night to declare that differences between Republicans and Democrats had narrowed somewhat. But at this point only urgent action can avert a shutdown of much of the government at midnight Friday, he said.