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

This article was originally on a blog post platform and may be missing photos, graphics or links. See About archive blog posts.

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