41.   House Banking Chairman Rep. Jim Leach, R-Davenport, is caught between party loyalty and prudent fiscal management on the issue of the debt ceiling.

42.   If the debt ceiling expires for more than a few days, the U.S. could default on its debts.

43.   If Clinton vetoes the bill he also runs the risk that the Republicans will refuse to raise the debt ceiling and the federal government will default.

44.   In a letter last month to House Speaker Newt Gingrich, the group said it would oppose raising the debt ceiling if Congress did not also balance the budget.

45.   If the debt ceiling is not raised, however, the Treasury may not have enough money to meet interest payments due next week.

46.   In a clear sign of trouble, the administration has asked Congress for an increase in the federal debt ceiling.

47.   In budget fights over the past decade, decisions about the debt ceiling have gone down to the wire.

48.   In another looming confrontation with Congress, Bush called on lawmakers to raise the debt ceiling to allow increased spending for defense and other programs.

49.   Instead of a routine vote for a temporary increase in the debt ceiling, there will be a session of painful bargaining for favors.

50.   It can do so because almost all of the proceeds will be used to pay off maturing debt and thus not push above the debt ceiling.