Senate GOP puts brakes on auto bailout

WASHINGTON, Dec. 10 (UPI) -- U.S. Senate Republicans threw up a roadblock Wednesday on efforts to pass a $14 billion bailout for the U.S. auto industry.

"I couldn't handicap for you the level of support that may exist in our conference," Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky said after a closed-door policy lunch with emissaries from the White House, including Chief of Staff Josh Bolten and Vice President Dick Cheney.

President George Bush and congressional Democrats struck agreement on a plan to offer Detroit's Big Three a short-term bridge loan to fend off potential collapse while reorganizing outside bankruptcy protection.

Senate Minority Whip Jon Kyl of Arizona said the GOP was "worried about the American taxpayer and that any money that's loaned to these Big Three manufacturers will ultimately be repaid."

The party supports "a strong domestic car manufacturing industry in America, but ... we know they need to be competitive," Kyl said.

Kyl said the proposal from the White House and Democratic leaders has "a lot of good ideas" about improving the U.S. auto industry and addressing some concerns.

McConnell acknowledged a number of party members consider bankruptcy protection is the best solution for the ailing U.S. auto industry.

"I'm not here to debate the alternatives," he said. "I haven't made a final decision that I've announced myself with regard to the proposal that's been negotiated."