Protesters hold banners and signs in front of the Sydney Opera House during a demonstration against the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) trade agreement November 8, 2014. [Photo/Agencies]

White House spokesman Josh Earnest said earlier that Obama is open to a legislative strategy that separates fast-track from worker aid, as long as both issues make it to his desk to be signed into law.

"The only legislative strategy that the president can support is one that will result in both pieces of legislation arriving at his desk," Earnest said.

Obama reiterated that point in his meeting with lawmakers and thanked them for their support, the White House said in a statement after the meeting concluded.

Under fast-track authority, the president could negotiate trade agreements, such as the TPP, knowing Congress can approve or reject the deals, but not amend them.

Some details on the trade package have been released. .