a debt ceiling stalemate. if the government hits it, it runs out of cash, cannot pay benefits or make payroll. the white house insists it s not negotiable. people have asked will they give an off ramp, exit strategy. congress must act, prevent a default, success, it s about the american economy, about the american people. here is the key to the talks, both sides must secure what they regard as a win. however, selling those wins on capitol hill is a challenge. some gop members want nothing less than the bill the house approved in april. sandra. sandra: chad, keep us posted. we ll be watching all of it. chad pergram on capitol hill for us. john. john: for more on today s high stakes meeting, bob cusack, editor and chief of the hill.