"I think we need to put aside our talking points and get down to something that can actually pass," said McConnell. "The whole business of raising taxes regardless of how you go about it is something this Congress is not likely to do."

A major breakdown in talks began with issues over raising revenues, with Republicans remaining steadfast that they would not increase taxes.

But Clyburn countered saying that the tax hikes proposed would be for co-operations and cutting ethanol and oil subsidies.

"We want to close the loopholes up. We don't want to raise anybody's tax rate. That's never been on the table," said Clyburn.