Ryan Strikes Collaborative Tone In Opening Talks

WASHINGTON (AP) — Republican Congressman Paul Ryan of Wisconsin is suggesting a collaborative approach as he starts formal talks with Democrats to reach a budget agreement by mid-December.

The 2012 Republican vice presidential nominee says the bipartisan group of congressional negotiators has a chance to take the first steps toward fixing problems like debt and the long-term future of entitlement programs.

Ryan's work on the panel could offer clues about his political future, whether he's looking to climb the House leadership ranks or pursue a 2016 presidential campaign. The congressman is helping preside over the panel at a time of deep rifts within the Republican Party between tea party conservatives and more business-friendly, establishment Republicans.