In fiscal matters, Mr Segal is close behind: he wants to cut taxes and decentralise government.

ECONOMIST: Canada

In fact, it is in fiscal matters that the Republicans will have the most leverage.

ECONOMIST: Bickering and stalemate loom for America??s new Congress

But his larger mission, trying to achieve some overarching agreement, seems more and more elusive and the President shows no inclination to compromise on fiscal matters in a way that would resolve our outstanding controversies with the debt, deficit and indeed the overall fiscal crisis we face.

FORBES: Setting Defiant Tone In Fiscal Standoff, Obama Seems To Be Betting GOP Will Fold On Taxes