WASHINGTON – Rep. Benjamin L. Cardin has been invited by President George W. Bush to the White House as part of a bipartisan group of House members to meet with him this afternoon to discuss his legislative agenda.

The bipartisan group of about 25 members will discuss with President Bush his top legislative initiatives and what the prospects are for passage. The president today will introduce his educational package, which is expected to call for extra funding for low-performing schools, penalties for failing schools and vouchers.

"I am looking forward to meeting with President Bush. I think it's important that we all listen to each other, and that we understand that the best way the President can move his legislative agenda forward is through bipartisan agreement. I hope this meeting will provide an opportunity for an open discussion and will set a pattern for regular talks between the White House and members of Congress from both parties," said Rep. Cardin.