Washington, D.C. (AP) – In spite of warnings, rhetoric and finger pointing, nothing indicates the White House and congressional Republicans are actively negotiating a deal to prevent automatic budget slashing.
The automatic cuts go into effect March 1 unless a deal is reached.
President Barack Obama warned Monday, "The uncertainty is already having an effect."
He said, "Companies are preparing layoff notices."
House Speaker John Boehner continued the call for spending cuts.