I think that what I posted makes for a reasonable alternative bill. They can even call it a compromise if they want.
But I disagree that the Dims have the upper hand. President Bush is a Master Poker Player.
If you don't hold the best hand, you have to know when to hold them and when to fold them. The Rep Congress forced Bill Clinton to sign the welfare reform bill after several vetos. Again, it is not a matter of if Bush will compromise, but when. It is the nature of those compromises that will make the difference.
I suspect that Bush will allow the pork to go thru, or at least most of it. He may also promise a quid pro quo for something else the Dems may want. Bush could increase his pressure for comprehensive immigration reform [aka as amnesty] to placate the Dems.