The Obama-McConnell dance begins

On an important trade bill—the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP)—the question is whether Mr. Obama will be as aggressive in seeking “fast track” authority as he is in attacking Republicans. The treaty would eliminate tariffs and generally harmonize the economies of the U.S., Mexico and Canada with those of nine mostly Asian countries. Fast track is crucial because it would allow a vote in Congress on the treaty without amendments. TPP negotiations are said to be near completion.

The Democratic base is a serious problem for the president, because fast track is poison to the left, especially labor unions and environmental groups. But without fast track, the treaty will die. Other countries will balk for fear TPP as negotiated would be altered later by Congress. When Mr. Obama called for a fast-track vote a year ago, Mr. Reid refused. This raised suspicions that his rebuff was prearranged to let the president off the hook. Mr. McConnell won’t be so helpful. “He’s going to have to step up and sell that to Democrats,” the senator said. “I can’t believe he’d want [TPP] to fail.”

On tax reform, the president and Republicans are far apart. The GOP model is the 1986 reform bill, which killed tax preferences and special breaks, broadened the tax base and lowered rates. Mr. McConnell said this year’s version must be revenue-neutral and treat small businesses the same as big companies. If the corporate income-tax rate drops, he said, the rate should also be cut for small business owners taxed as individuals.