from the New York Times …..

Bush Vows Not to Negotiate on Iraq Timetable

Stephen Crowley/The New York Times

President Bush speaking to the National Cattlemen's Beef Association meeting today in Washingon.

WASHINGTON, March 28 - A defiant President Bush vowed today not to negotiate with Congress about setting a date for withdrawing American troops from Iraq, and he said the American people would blame lawmakers if there is any delay in approving money for the war effort.

"Now, some of them believe that by delaying funding for our troops, they can force me to accept restrictions on our commanders that I believe would make withdrawal and defeat more likely," Mr. Bush said. "That's not going to happen. If Congress fails to pass a bill to fund our troops on the front lines, the American people will know who to hold responsible."