Daily Political Wire

George Wenschhof

Budget Talks Enter Third Day at White House - the public rhetoric from Republican and Democratic leaders indicating a large gap still exists between what President Obama would like to see passed and what House speaker John Boehner believes he has support. Obama wants a larger 4.3 Trillion reduction over the next twelve years, while Boehner favors a smaller 2.1 Trillion reduction. The issues mucky up the works is revenue enhancements which draw the ire of Republicans, and any modification to entitlement programs which angers Democrats. You can read more here.

Reason, would indicate there is a deal to be made.

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Keep an Eye on California Special Election Today - Republicans are hopeful they can win a seat long held by Democrats in the Los Angeles area. But, Democrat Janice Hahn has a 5 point lead, according to the latest polls, over Republican Craig Huey. TheHill.com has more here.

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People Pay Big To Hear Clinton Speak - according to finance reports filed by his wife; Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Bill Clinton made 75 million in speaking fees over the ten year period since he left the White House. Last year, Bill Clinton made 11 million from speaking fees. Politico.com has more here.

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New Policies Being Considered To Aid Housing Market - the Obama administration is going back to the drawing board as the housing market continues to tank and foreclosures continue to climb. Under consideration is to lower down payments required by investors and to provide incentives to banks who lower balances to debtors who owe more than what their home is worth. The Wall Street Journal has more here.

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President Karzai's Brother Assassinated in Afghanistan - yet another indication of the turmoil that exists in the country. Ahmed Wali Karzai was linked to drug trafficking and corruption in the government. He was assassinated by a close associate at his home. It is unclear what impact his death will have as the U.S. has begun troop withdraw from Afghanistan. You can read more here.

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France Says Talks on Gaddafi Exit Taking Place - Libyan Emissaries are taking part in discussions in several different countries on how to end the conflict and where Gaddafi could go. Reuters.com has more here.

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Secretary of State Clinton Says Syrian President Assad Has lost Legitimacy - this is the strongest statement coming from the u.S. after a government crackdown on pro-democracy demonstrators which began four months ago. The latest action condemned by the U.S. was pro-government protesters storming the U.S. embassy in Damascus. The Washington Post has more here.

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