[Cofeeman]

Going after Medicare doesn't have the same political problems when the President's plan cuts Medicare even more deeply. Ryan's plan grows Medicare at inflation +1%, the President's plan grows it at inflation +.5%.

The disagreement is over whether to voucherize it or keep it under government control. The President is actually willing to cut more so long as the government maintains control. I'm not sure either the President or Ryan has a clear advantage in that battle.