powerful motivations behind stimulus package - an nuniversal agreement

--the speed with which Washington hashed out the package was most driven by the drumbeat of bad economic news --behind the scenes, it was greased by other powerful motivations. Democrats want to demonstrate that they are capable of results after one year of gridlock. Republicans want to show they are sensitive to economic woes. White house did not want recession added to its legacy. --Fed Chairman Ben endorsed the plan at a critical juncture, reflecting his concerns ove the economy and limits on Fed's ability to drive the economy.