Republicans tell Bush Dubai ports deal faces defeat

Republican congressional leaders told US President George Bush today the House and Senate both appear ready to block a Dubai-owned company from taking over operations at several US ports.

The Republican leadership delivered the assessment in a private meeting at virtually the same time White House spokesman Scott McClellan reiterated Bush’s vow to veto any legislation to interfere with the deal.

The developments came one day after a Republican-controlled House committee voted 62-2 to block the transfer, which has prompted an unusual, election-year Republican revolt against the administration.

Across the Capitol, Senate Democrats demanded a vote on the issue, placing Republicans on the political defensive as they tried to prevent the roll call from occurring.

A company spokesman said DP World officials were not present at the discussions between congressional leaders and the White House.