President Barack Obama on Wednesday gave his blessing to the deal struck by Democrats Tuesday night to change the public option in the Senate health care bill, saying it will help move the legislation across the finish line.

“The Senate made critical progress last night with a creative new framework that I believe will help pave the way for final passage and a historic achievement on behalf of the American people,— Obama said during an appearance at the White House. “I support this effort, especially since it’s aimed at increasing choice and competition and lowering cost.—

The agreement among five moderate and five liberal Democratic Senators is intended to cement support in the Democratic Conference for the legislation by allaying moderates’ concerns about a government insurance option.

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) said Wednesday at the White House he was “hopeful— the agreement would enable the Senate “to do the health bill before we leave here.—