Rank-and-file question GOP 'fiscal cliff' stance

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by Laura Matovina

Story Created: Dec 10, 2012 at 7:27 AM CDT

Story Updated: Dec 10, 2012

WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Barack Obama and House Speaker John Boehner met at the White House Sunday to discuss the "fiscal cliff," while rank-and-file Republicans were stepping forward with what they say are pragmatic ideas to break the stalemate.

Obama and Boehner didn't release details of their conversation. But Republican mavericks are pressuring their leaders to rethink some of the most contentious issues, like taxes.

Tennessee Sen. Bob Corker says Senate Republicans would probably agree to higher taxes for the wealthiest Americans if it leads to overhauling entitlement programs. Other conservative stalwarts, including Oklahoma Rep. Tom Cole, have floated similar ideas.

A deal won't come easily. Many House Republicans refuse to support tax hikes under any circumstances. And Democrats have been skeptical about rushing through entitlement reforms before the end of the year.

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