Obama challenges House Republicans to engage in ‘constructive debate,’ put aside partisanship

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Obama challenges GOP to work with him on problems

BALTIMORE — President Barack Obama has told congressional Republicans it’s time work more closely together to solve the country’s problems.

Speaking at a retreat of House Republicans Friday, Obama said he welcomes a chance to bridge the political divide that has characterized much of his first year in office. The president said, “I don’t believe that the American people want us to focus on our job security. They want us to focus on their job security,” a line that drew applause.

Obama said he couldn’t understand why Republicans so fiercely opposed his initial tax cuts and said he doesn’t want “Washington to continue to be so Washington-like.” Obama said he wants “a constructive debate.”

THIS IS A BREAKING NEWS UPDATE. Check back soon for further information. AP’s earlier story is below.

BALTIMORE (AP) — President Barack Obama has told congressional Republicans it’s time work more closely together to solve the country’s problems.

Speaking at a retreat of House Republicans Friday, Obama said he welcomes a chance to bridge the political divide that has characterized much of his first year in office. The president said, “I don’t believe that the American people to focus on our job security. They want us to focus on their job security,” a line that drew applause.

Obama said he couldn’t understand why Republicans so fiercely opposed his initial tax cuts and said he doesn’t want “Washington to continue to be so Washington-like.” Obama said he wants “a constructive debate.”