The worst thing that can happen is a watered down compromise that simply kicks the can down the road. Unless the GOP is willing to get behind big DoD cuts, increasing top marginal rates, the Dems are willing to make serious entitlement reforms and both can agree on REAL tax reform then we will get some bullshit that both parties believe they can sell to their base as a victory. I am skeptical that there are enough true leaders to make the best decision not the best political move. That being said, I'll take gridlock.