North Little Rock, Ark. (AP) President Bush is expressing confidence that he will reach a deal with congress on a housing rescue plan but is prodding lawmakers to show “less politics.”

The president's comments come as many homeowners are saddled with mortgage payments they can no longer afford and facing foreclosure. The senate is considering a $300 billion plan to back cheaper loans for people who risk losing their home, but that
measure has stalled for now.

Bush said he thought congress would come up with a bill he could sign but said would require “less politics and more focus.”

He spoke at a credit-counseling agency in Arkansas that helps pay saddled with debt.