* Bush remains firm on port deal as lawmakers from both parties voice concern: “I want those who are questioning it to step up and explain why all of a sudden a Middle Eastern company is held to a different standard than a [British] company… They ought to look at the facts and understand the consequences of what they’re going to do. But if they pass a law, I’ll deal with it, with a veto.” [WP, NYT, W$J, LAT, WT, USAT]
* Supreme Court will hear case on partial birth abortion; decision will test new court. [WP, NYT, W$J, WT, USAT]
* Bush devotes second day to talking up alternative energy options. [WP, NYT]
* Andy Card called off December briefing about NSA eavesdropping to the House Intelligence Committee. [NYT]
* Commander of Guantanamo admits force-feeding detainees; Rumsfeld says interrogation tactics changed after legal concerns were raised in early 2003. [NYT, NYT]
* Alito was “precocious,” jovial, and “enthusiastic” on his first day. [WP]
* Fundraisers aim to raise $5m for Lewis Libby’s defense fund. [WP]

• Reliable Source: Cheney impersonator Darrell Hammond was invited to vice president’s Christmas party; other guests included Alan Greenspan, Andy Card, Newt Gingrich, Wolf Blitzer, John Roberts, Antonin Scalia. . . John Roberts and Clarence Thomas sat separately at the Capital Grille. Roberts had a cheeseburger and a Coke. [WP]
• Under the Dome: Band-members of the only congressional rock group, the Second Amendments, plan a short world tour for U.S. troops abroad. . . Lawmakers whip out purple ink pads to celebrate solidarity with Iraqi voters. [The Hill]
• Cindy Adams: Bush urged not to pardon Scooter Libby. . . Tom Kean Jr. has raised over $1m for N.J. senate race. [NYP]
• The Scoop: George Clooney: “I hate it when smart men and women are saying,