By Brai Odion-Esene
WASHINGTON (MNI) – The White House Friday said the meeting between
President Barack Obama and congressional leaders was constructive, with all
participants acknowledging the need to head off the hit to the economy from the
combination of expiring tax reliefs and cuts in spending set to occur at the end
of the year.
In a statement released after the meeting, the White House said Obama and
lawmakers “agreed to do everything possible to find a solution that averts the
so-called ‘fiscal cliff,’.”
In addition, “they agreed to work together to find a balanced approach to
reduce our deficit that includes both revenues and cuts in spending and
encourages our long-term economic and job growth,” the statement said.
While both sides agreed that there may be differences in both parties’
preferred approaches, the White House said work will continue to find a solution
“and come to a conclusion as soon as possible.”
With Obama set to embark on a four-day swing through Southeast Asia, the
White House assured that members of his senior team will continue meetings and
discussions with Hill members and their staff over the next several days while
he travels.
** MNI Washington Bureau: 202-371-2121 **
–email: besene@mni-news.com
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