Any deal today would deal with only some recession-causing factors and set another deadline early next year.

President must contend with opposition from congressional Republicans.

President must contend with opposition from congressional Republicans.

Deal to fund government through March leaves time to debate January spending cuts.

Deal to fund government through March leaves time to debate January spending cuts.

Bill would keep government operating for 6 months, avoid automatic spending cuts

Bill would keep government operating for 6 months, avoid automatic spending cuts

Legislators weigh whether to postpone automatic cuts until March 2013.