What is the meaning of "get the fiscal house in order"?

I would submit the statement is focused on any and all government funded programs and entities, i.e. the federal budget. This pretty much means the entire fiscal system across federal, state, local, and private boundaries. With examples like the bail outs of private industry, the mortgage crisis, health care, etc. the "fiscal house" would appear to be an utterly complex system that ultimately in one way or another ties back into federal regulation.

IMO, the statement is intended to say, as a nation we need a balanced budget. The issue then becomes the differences in opinion on how we get there. What programs are important, what programs must be cut, and how do we pay for it all?

It's sounds like a reality tv show where a major refurb is required.