Obama’s Iran outreach makes inroads among Democrats in Congress

WASHINGTON (AP) — Determined to secure support for the Iran nuclear deal, President Barack Obama is making inroads with a tough constituency — his fellow Democrats in Congress.

 

A handful of key Democrats stepped forward to support the accord within hours of Obama’s personal lobbying at the White House this past week, part of the administration’s all-out campaign since the pact was announced July 14. Other Democrats have signaled they are leaning in favor and still others have remained undeclared, awaiting a vote in September.

 

The deal, which curbs Iran’s nuclear program in exchange for relief from sanctions smothering its economy, is not a traditional fight between the White House and Republicans, who control the House and Senate. This is about Obama, who has often been at odds with congressional Democrats, trying to cajole them just weeks after a divisive debate over trade. (READ MORE)