Washington - Following dinner at the Jefferson Hotel with President Obama, some Republican senators are expressing optimism that a large, deficit-reduction deal may be attainable. Heritage Action released the following statement from CEO Michael A. Needham:
Republican senators who are feeling optimistic about the possibility of a deficit reduction deal after dining with President Obama last night should explain their enthusiasm. The only reason for optimism is if the President promised that tax increases are completely off the table. A fine dining experience with the President of the United States may be enjoyable, but until he jettisons his flawed, economically damaging approach to deficit reduction, there is little reason for excitement.
Senators attending the dinner included Kelly Ayotte (R-NH), Richard Burr (R-NC), Saxby Chambliss (R-GA), Dan Coats (R-IN), Tom Coburn (R-OK), Bob Corker (R-TN), Lindsey Graham (R-SC), John Hoeven (R-NE), Mike Johanns (R-NE), Ron Johnson (R-WI), John McCain (R-AZ) and Pat Toomey (R-PA).