From NPR News in Washington, I'm Windsor Johnston.Two more of the 20 students killed during Friday's deadly shooting rampage at an elementary school in suburban Connecticut are being laid to rest today.A hearse carried the casket of first-grader James Mattioli.A funeral was also planned today for six-year-old Jessica Rekos.Several wakes are also being held including one for teacher Victoria Soto.House Speaker John Boehner says he is working on Plan B if a deal can't be reached with the President to avoid automatic spending cuts and tax hikes.But as NPR's Tamara Keith reports negotiations are continuing.The speaker's backup plan would extend the Bush-era tax cuts for all but those making more than $1 million a year.But Democratic leaders are clear they won't support it and as a result, it doesn't have a chance in the Senate.White House spokesman Jay Carney says the President hopes that a deal can be reached and he rejects Boehner's Plan B.It's not a great alternative, it's not a great fallback.And even Boehner says a broad deal with the President that includes equal parts tax increases and spending cuts would be preferable.I think it'd be better for our country.The Republican Plan B could be brought to the House floor as soon as Thursday. Tamara Keith, NPR News, the Capitol.Senator Patrick Leahy has formally assumed his position in the presidential line of succession today,becoming the Senate Pro Tempore after the death of Hawaii Senator Daniel Inouye.That you take this oath, an obligation freely without any mental reservation.
