Here’s a roundup of this morning’s must-read budget and economic stories:

The New York Times examines President Obama’s efforts to cut the budget deficit. The Associated Press says the Administration is making efforts to curb improper Medicare payments.

Bloomberg looks at the Democrats’ plan for taxes. Meanwhile, The Hill has a new poll out on taxes.

Bloomberg says the nation’s governors don’t have many solutions for cities that are facing bankruptcy.

The Associated Press reports economists are more optimistic about the coming year. However, Bloomberg says energy prices will continue to be a drag.