The rise of the federal debt over the past two decades has prompted countless warnings that the United States is approaching a fiscal reckoning, a day when the government won't be able to drink all it ...

For reporters, it's hardly unusual to call sources on the phone to learn details or get quotes that will enliven their stories. Sometimes people will talk, sometimes they won't.

The House-passed bill includes a large tax cut, as well as more money for defense and immigration enforcement, financed in part by slashing health, nutrition, education and clean energy programs.