This is a graph (click to enlarge) from Keith Hennessey that’s worth saving as the debate, information and misinformation concerning the Ryan plan is debated.

The entire post by Hennessey is worth a read as he breaks down this chart into its component parts, explains the inputs behind the lines and points out the salient differences between the Ryan plan and the policies advocated by President Obama.

Note that the President’s plan relies on deficits as the primary means of financing his spending priorities. Tax increases are a minor component of the funds required to finance his plan. Unfortunately, that isn’t a credible formula as you can see the unsustainable levels of debt that would be required to accomplish his goals via deficit financing alone.