Q+A: How will U.S. climate negotiators approach Copenhagen? | Reuters

* CAN THE U.S. BUY ITS WAY OUT OF TROUBLE?

Experts think Washington could go a long way toward building confidence for a global deal if the United States put forth a specific proposal on how much money it would throw into an international pot.

The funds would be dedicated to helping poor countries develop alternative energies and deal with the fallout from global warming. Tens of billions of dollars could be required annually.

A problem: In tough economic times and with astounding domestic budget deficits, many members of the U.S. Congress would be nervous about promising money for others.