WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Barack Obama is stepping up his response to the Gulf oil spill.

He's expected to announce new drilling restrictions today while subjecting himself to the most intensive questioning yet from reporters on the subject. He plans to travel to the Gulf coast on Friday.

As the five-week-old spill fouls Louisiana coastal areas and threatens political harm to his administration, Obama is accepting and deflecting portions of the blame, adopting new safety standards and trying to reassure Americans that every possible step is being taken to cap the underwater gusher and clean up the mess.

Also today, the administration will announce delays in granting permits to drill in the Arctic and in portions of the Gulf.

For news and multimedia about the Gulf oil spill, visit our Gulf Oil Spill section where you can see live video of the leaking pipe.

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