Since our leaders seem unable to resolve their differences regarding the budget, they need professional help and public pressure so they no longer play to their respective bases. I believe some common sense compromises are possible and with the help of a professional mediator maybe they can reach them. Both President Obama and Speaker Boehner could bring two other leaders of their choice to the meeting.
By televising the meeting, they could be held accountable and judged by Americans as a whole, not just their bases.