WASHINGTON -- President Barack Obama and House Speaker John Boehner discussed the fiscal cliff Wednesday in a telephone call. It followed several days of political sparring over steps to prevent a year-end series of tax increases and spending cuts.

The call raises the possibility that negotiations will soon resume between the White House and congressional leaders.

Fiscal Cliff: Expanded Coverage

Obama is demanding that Republicans agree to raise tax rates at upper incomes as part of a deal to rein in future deficits. GOP leaders say they will agree to higher revenue, but they want to close loopholes or reduce tax breaks rather than raise rates.

A spokesman for Boehner disclosed the call.

DAVID ESPO, AP Special Correspondent

Associated Press