Obama Invites GOP Leaders To Health Care Talk

WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama says he has invited Republican and Democratic leaders to discuss health care legislation later this month.

In an interview Sunday with CBS’ Katie Couric, Obama said he wants Republicans “to put their ideas on the table.”

Obama and Congress’ Democratic leaders are seeking a way to overhaul the nation’s health care system even though Senate Republicans are again able to block legislation with filibusters.

Polls show that many Americans feel Obama and his congressional allies have not sought enough GOP input, although Democrats say Republicans have shown virtually no interest in seeking a realistic agreement.

The White House says the Feb. 25 session will involve Republican and Democratic leaders from both houses of Congress, and will probably be held at Blair House, across the street from the White House.