We are in agreement that a balance budget should their goal. Both parties are going to have to let up on their hard line principals to do so. They could avoid attacking their principals by coming in through back door.

Immigration reform is one way to increase tax revenue. You don't give the illegals a path to citizenship, or the ability to receive money from any social program available to US citizens. The exception is social security, and Medicare. Since the illegals and their employer contribute to SS, and Medicare, they should receive the benefits upon their retirement. Earned Income credit is off the table for them. Additional credit for children under 18 maybe, but not the same as a US citizen.

Increasing the minimum wage. Who knows? The employee will definitely be paying more in income, SS, and Medicare taxes. They will be spending more; therefore, increasing income of the businesses that they are doing business with. They will receive less in tax credits. However, their employer will be paying less in income taxes due to the higher salaries. The employer tax rate is higher, and could offset the amount received by a higher minimum wage.

Taking a hard look at Medicare items that doctors have to abide by. Some of them probably don't make any sense.

Have Paul Ryan update his social program changes. Go into a closed door session to see if there is any common ground. Do something that is next to impossible penalizes anyone, who leaks the talks to the press.

This is on us. Elect people that have middle of the road views, and get rid of elected officials that are on the extreme right or left. Pipe dream!