The Debt Ceiling

It is a universally acknowledged economic fact that not raising the debt ceiling would put the American economy in the toilet.

So what the Republicans are basically saying to Obama is: If you don't do what we want, we will put the American economy in the toilet.

I don't understand how the American people are not outraged that the Republicans are using the economic future of our country - ie, the livelihoods of most Americans - to play political games.

The alternative version of this story is that the Republicans want to compromise with Obama in order to raise the debt ceiling.

So they are saying: If you only do some of what we want, we'll be nice, and won't destroy the American economy.

I don't think that not causing a second Great Depression should be an issue that one imposes conditions about, even if one is willing to compromise on some of those conditions. Of course, the real problem is that Republicans have proven unwilling to compromise: They are not even willing to agree to not giving millionares tax breaks on corporate jets, let alone actually compromise on any real issues.

There are two major ways to get rid of debt: A. Cut spending B. Raise revenue ie increase taxes. As President Obama said in today's press conference, both are necessary. The Republicans are refusing to even acknowledge the existence of option B. This is the equivalent of what the Republicans are doing:

Republicans: Honey, I am sorry, but we can't afford to get you a new car - oh, and we'll have to cut down on your diabetes medication - it's too expensive.

America: But without the car I can't get to work and will lose my job, so we'll have no money and might even have our house, which still has a mortage on it, go into foreclosure.

Republicans: That's too bad.

America: But honey, I thought your boss offered you a job with higher salary.

Republicans: Yeah, but I can't take it, because it the money from that higher salary would be coming out of my boss's paycheck.

America: What do you care about his paycheck?

Republicans: My boss uses some of that money to buy you nice gifts on your birthdays. You wouldn't want to lose out on that trickle down effect would you?

America: I'd rather you take some of his money so I can afford my diabetes medication.

Republicans: Now honey, don't be unreasonable. Let's work out a compromise. Maybe if we also cut down on food bills, we can afford the car.

America: But I need to eat!

Republicans: No, you only think you do. Actually - scrap that. Let's cut down on food and medicine, and not get you the car. But I am sure we can reach some sort of compromise about the car issue.

I think it's time the couple in this scene got a divorce. I am just waiting for the American people to come to the same conclusion.