GOP may back short-term debt limit extension

WILLIAMSBURG, Va. (AP) - House Republicans say they may seek a short-term extension of the government's debt limit in the next few weeks, a move that would avoid an immediate default by the Treasury.

Rep. Paul Ryan provided no details on the duration of any extension or conditions that might be attached as he appeared at a news conference during a break at a three-day retreat of the rank and file in historic Williamsburg, Va.

He spoke as Republicans sought to unify for this spring's budget struggles, looking for ways to maximize their leverage in talks with President Barack Obama over spending cuts.