The Price of Politics, Woodward Bob

Bob Woodwards freshly reported, thirty-five-page Afterword to his national bestseller, The Price of Politics, provides a detailed, often verbatim account of what happened in the dramatic fiscal cliff face-off at the end of 2012 between President Obama and the Republicans.

Now its happening again. In fall 2013, Washington faces a new round of budget and fiscal wars that could derail the American and global economies.

We are primarily a blocking majority, said Michael Sommers, Speaker John Boehners chief of staff, summarizing the House Republican position.

It was the land of no-compromise:

On health care cuts over ten years, Boehner suggested to Obama, you are $400 billion, Im at $600 billion. Can we split the difference here? Can we land at $500 billion?

Four hundred billion is it, Obama replied. I just cant see how we go any further on that.

After making $120 billion in other concessions, Obama pleaded with Boehner, What is it about the politics?
My guys just arent there, Boehner replied.
We are $150 billion off, man. I dont get it. Theres something I dont get.