OBAMA TO GET DRUG INDUSTRY'S HELP

The nation's drugmakers stand ready to spend $150 million to help President Obama overhaul health care this fall, according to numerous officials -- a staggering sum that could dwarf attempts to derail his chief domestic priority.

The White House and allies in Congress are well aware of the effort by Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America. The campaign, now in its early stages, includes television advertising under PhRMA's own name and commercials aired in conjunction with the liberal group, Families USA.

Numerous people with knowledge of PhRMA's plans spoke on condition of anonymity, saying they were not authorized to divulge details.

Drugmakers were the first group to reach agreement with the White House and Democratic Senate negotiators, announcing several weeks ago that they would absorb $80 billion in costs over a decade. Now, with the legislation under attack, the industry will provide key support.

ASSOCIATED PRESS