White House says still expects House vote on healthcare Thursday night

Spicer, at his daily news briefing, said Trump's meeting with House Republican conservatives who make up the "Freedom Caucus" was a "very positive step" and that Trump continues to build support for the legislation.

"I expect it to climb hour by hour," Spicer said of support for the Republican healthcare effort. He said drawing conservative support while not alienating moderate lawmakers remained part of a "balancing act."

(Reporting By Steve Holland and Jeff Mason; Editing by Dan Grebler)