Top Republican lawmakers are positioning themselves for battle over President-elect Barack Obama’s economic recovery plan, signaling Monday that they will cast themselves as guardians against excessive spending rather than outright opponents of the Democrats’ stimulus package.

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R., Ky.) in a statement Monday supported the idea of using federal spending to boost the economy. But he warned that the price tag, which could approach $800 billion over two years, shouldn’t become an excuse for funding undeserving projects.

Just as the Democrats face a political balancing act in crafting a package that the public sees as an honest attempt to boost the economy, and not a grab bag of politically motivated spending, the Republicans face a challenge of their own.

Congressional aides and the Obama team have said they want a package ready when Congress returns on Jan. 6, so legislation can reach the House and Senate floors before Mr. Obama’s inauguration on Jan. 20.