Brown optimistic about budget deal with GOP ‘because I read their feelings’

Although there are no outward signs of progress, Gov. Jerry Brown said Tuesday that he is “more optimistic” than before that a deal on tax extensions can be reached.

He cited what he described as "the words that I have received from some of the Republicans, whose names I will not share."

Asked at a news conference how he could be so confident if the Republicans can't even be identified publicly, the governor said:

"Because I read their feelings. ... Their words, their affect and their presence speaks volumes," he added. "And my judgment is that we're getting close to getting the votes."

-- Shane Goldmacher in Sacramento