President Obama will formally propose cuts to Social Security and Medicare

[dajoki]

Obama Budget to Include Cuts to Programs in Hopes of Deal
By JACKIE CALMES
Published: April 5, 2013 127 Comments
http://www.nytimes.com/2013/04/05/us/social-programs-face-cutback-in-obama-budget.html?pagewanted=all

<<snip>>

In a significant shift in fiscal strategy, Mr. Obama on Wednesday will send a budget plan to Capitol Hill that departs from the usual presidential wish list that Republicans typically declare dead on arrival. Instead it will embody the final compromise offer that he made to Speaker John A. Boehner late last year, before Mr. Boehner abandoned negotiations in opposition to the president’s demand for higher taxes from wealthy individuals and some corporations.

Congressional Republicans have dug in against any new tax revenues after higher taxes for the affluent were approved at the start of the year. The administration’s hope is to create cracks in Republicans’ antitax resistance, especially in the Senate, as constituents complain about the across-the-board cuts in military and domestic programs that took effect March 1.

Mr. Obama’s proposed deficit reduction would replace those cuts. And if Republicans continue to resist the president, the White House believes that most Americans will blame them for the fiscal paralysis.

Besides the tax increases that most Republicans continue to oppose, Mr. Obama’s budget will propose a new inflation formula that would have the effect of reducing cost-of-living payments for Social Security benefits, though with financial protections for low-income and very old beneficiaries, administration officials said. The idea, known as chained C.P.I., has infuriated some Democrats and advocacy groups to Mr. Obama’s left, and they have already mobilized in opposition.

As Mr. Obama has before, his budget documents will emphasize that he would support the cost-of-living change, as well as other reductions that Republicans have called for in the popular programs for older Americans, only if Republicans agree to additional taxes on the wealthy and infrastructure investments that the president called for in last year’s offer to Mr. Boehner.

[morningfog]

1. Shameful move.

[cali]

10. yes it is. our only hope is that enough republicans will be recalcitrant

on the issue of raising taxes and combined with dems who oppose this, will defeat it.

[dajoki]

15. Is that what our hopes lie on?

The f**king repubs have been trying to get rid of SS for decades and if they get the chance to start that process now, they will take it.

[cali]

47. I'm afraid so. Boehner, by the way, HAS rejected this exact proposal in

meetings with the President this year because it included raising taxes. The pukes are caught between their desire to cut Social Security and their pledges to not raise taxes no matter what. So yes, our only hope is precisely what I laid out.

[dajoki]

50. Sad, very sad

[Babel_17]

182. He didn't just reject it, he rejected it in a manner showing

that they were easily ready. The media seems to be hinting that his rejection was thoughtful.

Our side just looks sad.

[RKP5637]

49. It will not stop here, R's will dismantle SS a

piece at a time. This is the old 'foot in the door' sales tactic. Get a foot in the door, and keep driving the issue 'till all succumb.

There are just too many seniors becoming millionaires 'cause of SS benefits. Mark my word, with these tactics SS will be gone within a decade. IMO this proposal by Obama is piss-poor, and republicans will rejoice over yet another cave-in. Push long enough and the door breaks in ...

[JDPriestly]

96. It's Obama, not Republicans, who is proposing this.

What a double-cross!

For others in the economy, there is a chance that with wise management, the outlook will improve and their incomes along with it. That is utterly not true for seniors who rely primarily on Social Security for their income.

20 years ago, a couple who had saved some money might not be relying so much on Social Security for their income. They might be getting some income from return on their savings or investment in addition to Social Security.

Now, banks pay no interest -- or virtually no interest -- so seniors who are no longer working are more dependent than ever on their Social Security benefit and nothing else.

People who worked hard all their lives live on less than $1500 per month even if they did save.

That is shameful.

And the other terrible fact about our economy is that our young workers are struggling with the debts they took on when they went to college.

Meanwhile, I have yet to see the names of the 4000 individuals with offshore accounts on the list that was recently discussed in the Guardian.

They should be royally fined or asked to change their citizenship and declared persona non grata in the US. That may be legally impossible, but it would be appropriate.

[nashville_brook]

132. +1

[RKP5637]

159. To me, we are living now through the end of an experiment in democracy, and it's damn clear the

oligarchs have won. I heard someplace recently that about 28% of American have less than $1,000 in cash ... and something like 47% of Americans have less than $25,000 in set aside funds. Don't quote me on these figures, I'm just recalling what I heard recently ... I think few Americans today realize when they hit retirement most will have nothing or very little. Safety nets are fading, SS is being dismantled and who knows where Medicare is headed ... if the R's are back in seniors well might be walking around with $6,000 vouchers while the insurance companies laugh at them. This country is headed straight toward being a theocratic dystopia IMO.

I hope I'm wrong, but my guess is in about 10 years or less this will seem like the best of times for many Americans, young and old.

[rhett o rick]

178. Agree. They are striping the bones of the lower classes with impunity.

Not much we can do actually. Massive civ il Dis obedience, might help slow the death process.

[RKP5637]

179. They always go after the weakest, the youngest and the oldest. They are easy targets. As they

continue to strip the bones of the middle class, and upper-middle class, I think massive civ il Dis obedience will eventually occur, when backs are to the wall, death is around the corner, and there is nothing to lose, and really nothing else left to try.

[JDPriestly]

208. Looks that way. And the oligarchs have the media tied in knots.

Scared to speak, they are.

[Skittles]

220. google "retirement crisis" and read up

your figures are correct

[RKP5637]

223. Thank you. n/t

[sabrina 1]

113. They've had their foot in the door before and had it slammed shut in their faces by

Democrats.

Now, the door is being held open, and by a Democrat! What a sad day this is especially for the most vulnerable Americans, the disabled, the elderly, the poor and dependent children, sold out by those they trusted to protect them.

[RKP5637]

158. It's damn disgusting! And what does one do now ... this was supposed to be our party, but anymore

I wonder a lot about what party I do belong too ... In my lifetime it's drastically changed. $$$$$ is a top priority, but "we the people," not so much ... unless you can belly up to the bar with lots of $$$$$. Frankly, IMO, we're living through the end of a democracy experiment.

[dotymed]

115. WTF are you saying?

"It will not stop here, R's will dismantle SS a piece at a time."
It isn't the "R's" proposing this"chained CPI" for SS. It is "our" democratic, corporate owned (just like any person who is now allowed to run for president by TPTB) "D" president...
Of course Obama has said that if we don't like the way he does things, we need to "make him" change.
Unless we actually take to the streets by the millions, not a damned thing will change. Unfortunately, by the time the ignorant, lazy, self-satisfied, Amerikan people realize that their head is on the chopping block too, it will be way too late, if it is not already. Why don't we try and see?
This will give the masters a perfect reason to install an "R" as president next term.
It makes me glad that I am dying, I'm fed up with watching this country become the fascist regime that it has become. I hope that my children will heed my advice and raise their children in a society who is afraid of their citizenry. Hell, we out-number them by about 300 million to a few thousand, here. Yet we are too ignorant to act.
Did you see where a McDonald's employment ad required a bachelor's degree to apply for a cashier position? Soon that will be the rule, not an exception. We have nearly destroyed our Unions, who in the hell is going to stand-up for average Americans if we don't?
America has become the world's asshole. The rest of the world knows it.

BERNIE SANDERS FOR PRESIDENT. DEMOCRATIC SOCIALISM, NOT UNFETTERED CAPITALISM.

[RKP5637]

151. Very well said!!! I've watched this country disintegrate over my lifetime I would love to see

Bernie Sanders for president. On the current course we are headed straight for a theoretic dystopia for most of America. What I meant in my post was pretty much what you are saying ... these actions will enable the republicans to fully destroy SS. You said it far better than I. All that Obama is doing with this will be used against him. He will go down in history as the president that started the destruction of SS.

Earlier today I was telling someone at home I'm starting not to give a fuck anymore. The majority of Americans, at least a close 50/50, don't give a fuck about many things. Most people I talk to always have a 'deer in the headlight look.' I think the typical American doesn't have the foggiest idea what is going on in this country. They think 'cause they vote democratic that fixes everything, well, it doesn't!

[whathehell]

149. Correct...Somehow, someway, I believe this was planned..You've heard "It took Nixon to go to China"?

This version will be "It took Obama to cut Social Security and Medicare"

The Pukes have been waiting for this for a long time.

[RKP5637]

156. I think the R's and D's talk a lot more than we in the weeds are led to believe by MSM. It's all

part of the plan ...

[whathehell]

166. Yes, I think so too. n/t

[kenny blankenship]

135. They've turned him down on this so far.

Honestly folks, how can you have missed the four years of Obama trying to do a deal with Republicans to cut the Safety Net? He has alluded to his attempts -plural attempts, not singular- to get a deal cutting Social benefits in exchange for tax increases on numerous occasions. He even pushed for this during the depths of the Great Financial Crisis.

People just didn't want to believe the news? Fingers stuck in ears? Heads up rears?

The Republicans haven't wanted an agreement with him on anything, not unless it comes in the form of them laying down an ultimatum and him conceding to it in a public show of humiliation and abasement. (The content of ANY legislation for Republicans is a distant second in importance to the capitulating FORM which the agreement takes - because their base is so ignorant and enraged.) Republican intransigence is the ONLY REASON why you haven't seen a deal cutting the safety net already. Don't count on your Democrats blocking anything. Only a minority of the PROGRESSIVE CAUCUS would sign a letter rejecting cuts to the safety net. Oh yeah, you're all fucked cross-eyed and speechless, if rescue depends on the Democrats.

Go ahead and call your Democratic Representatives and Senators. But don't forget to pray to God(s) the Republicans stay savage and intransigent. The latter course is your best hope.

[airplaneman]

164. The republican meme

Take everything they want.
Give nothing they don't.
-Airplane

[kelliekat44]

163. Shameful spin! nt

[IDemo]

2. Time to invest in catfood futures

Is it also time to redefine "compromise"?

[RKP5637]

67. Yes, compromise now = cave in. n/t

[on point]

112. U thought that big campaign circle was an 'O'? It was the cave entrance!!

[RKP5637]

155. That's about it ... the strong no no no ... and now this. n/t

[forestpath]

4. The last time I felt this kicked in the teeth was when Bush stole the election in 2004.

It feels like the Democrats didn't win all over again.

[dajoki]

7. Yes, it feels just like that

[pangaia]

46. The last time I felt this kicked in the teeth..

was the last time Obama kicked us in the teeth, and the time before that....
I'm done...

[AzDar]

5. Could've *sworn* we had re-elected a Democrat...

[byeya]

19. I remember something like that too. The USSR never learned that to have a one party state

you need to give the one party two names and two articles of incorporation.

[pangaia]

57. Yea, he fooled me also.

[Beartracks]

60. I thought Obama was supposed to wear conservative hate as a badge of honor? n/t

[The Link]

6. Morning Joe is loving it.

He thinks we should all give the President credit for proposing a real budget.

[dajoki]

9. WE should all be worried...

if Morning Joe backs it.

[bigdarryl]

8. It's time to March on Washington

This isn't just a Democrate issue it's an AMERICAN !!!!! Issue WTF

[zeemike]

39. Marches to Washington has been neutered.

We have them on Saturday when all the PTB are in the Hampton's or out for the weekend and go home on Sunday...Monday it is Business ans usual in DC.
Nope, if you want it to work you have to go there to stay until there is change...and most people are afraid of loosing their jobs by doing something like that.

[YOHABLO]

216. I wish you wouldn't use acronyms PTB? can't figure that one out.

[zeemike]

217. I am sorry...that is rude and lazy.

Powers That Be.

[Stuart G]

11. ???? hard to believe...nt...

[DrDan]

12. chained cpi, means testing and no gun control legislation

did I miss something in last year's election results?

lets see . . . how much will I be contributing to D campaigns this year

[Maraya1969]

17. Hopefully a lot because the reason this crap is happening is we still have a Republican controlled

House. If we can get these assjacks out of office and put it back into Democratic hands we wouldn't have any of these problems.

[DrDan]

20. well - control of the Senate and Harry will not put a gun control bill up for a vote

spineless . . .

[demwing]

37. There is always SOME excuse

But if this article is true, the budget is coming directly from the White House. How the hell can that be blamed on the Republicans?

[pangaia]

58. Somehow I just gave up on the repub-controlled House thingy..

[HiPointDem]

75. i believe the democrats controlled the house and senate after the 2008 election. you guys

can keep sticking up that fake rabbit, but people aren't going to keep chasing it.

[RKP5637]

80. K&R !!! Exactly !!! n/t

[Maraya1969]

167. Do you remember everything they got done in 2008-2009?

It was a lot and most of it would not pass today.

[HiPointDem]

196. i remember the bankster bailout and the laundry list of minor stuff that kept being posted

here.

none of it was very important, is my memory. not in comparison with what could have been done given the political capital and solid majority obama had right after the election.

[Maraya1969]

202. Health Care Reform? And here is a list from 2008-2009 from The

Washington Monthly of his accomplishments from that time. It is actually a list of his 50 greatest accomplishments but I went through and picked out the ones from 2009-2010 to show how he needed the Democratic House to achieve a lot of them.

Signed $787 billion American Recovery and Reinvestment Act in 2009 to spur economic growth amid greatest recession since the Great Depression.

Signed the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (2010) to re-regulate the financial sector after its practices caused the Great Recession.

In 2009, injected $62 billion in federal money (on top of $13.4 billion in loans from the Bush administration) into ailing GM and Chrysler in return for equity stakes and agreements for massive restructuring.

Reversed Bush Torture Policies: Two days after taking office, nullified Bush-era rulings that had allowed detainees in U.S. custody to undergo certain “enhanced” interrogation techniques considered inhumane under the Geneva Conventions - (although that I do not think involved congress)

Boosted Fuel Efficiency Standards: Released new fuel efficiency standards in 2011 that will nearly double the fuel economy for cars and trucks by 2025.

Created Conditions to Begin Closing Dirtiest Power Plants: New EPA restrictions on mercury and toxic pollution, issued in December 2011, likely to lead to the closing of between sixty-eight and 231 of the nation’s oldest and dirtiest coal-fired power plants. Estimated cost to utilities: at least $11 billion by 2016. Estimated health benefits: $59 billion to $140 billion. Will also significantly reduce carbon emissions and, with other regulations, comprises what’s been called Obama’s “stealth climate policy.”----------------I know this is 2011 but it seems important.

Passed Credit Card Reforms: Signed the Credit Card Accountability, Responsibility, and Disclosure Act (2009), which prohibits credit card companies from raising rates without advance notification, mandates a grace period on interest rate increases, and strictly limits overdraft and other fees.

Signed Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act in 2009, giving women who are paid less than men for the same work the right to sue their employers after they find out about the discrimination, even if that discrimination happened years ago.-----------Look what it took just to get the violence against women act passed. It failed first because of the rethugs.

Expanded National Service: Signed Serve America Act in 2009, which authorized a tripling of the size of AmeriCorps. Program grew 13 percent to 85,000 members across the country by 2012, when new House GOP majority refused to appropriate more funds for further expansion.

Expanded Wilderness and Watershed Protection: Signed Omnibus Public Lands Management Act (2009), which designated more than 2 million acres as wilderness, created thousands of miles of recreational and historic trails, and protected more than 1,000 miles of rivers.

Gave the FDA Power to Regulate Tobacco: Signed the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act (2009). Nine years in the making and long resisted by the tobacco industry, the law mandates that tobacco manufacturers disclose all ingredients, obtain FDA approval for new tobacco products, and expand the size and prominence of cigarette warning labels, and bans the sale of misleadingly labeled “light” cigarette brands and tobacco sponsorship of entertainment events.

Pushed Federal Agencies to Be Green Leaders: Issued executive order in 2009 requiring all federal agencies to make plans to soften their environmental impacts by 2020. Goals include 30 percent reduction in fleet gasoline use, 26 percent boost in water efficiency, and sustainability requirements for 95 percent of all federal contracts. Because federal government is the country’s single biggest purchaser of goods and services, likely to have ripple effects throughout the economy for years to come.

Invested Heavily in Renewable Technology: As part of the 2009 stimulus, invested $90 billion, more than any previous administration, in research on smart grids, energy efficiency, electric cars, renewable electricity generation, cleaner coal, and biofuels.

Crafting Next-Generation School Tests: Devoted $330 million in stimulus money to pay two consortia of states and universities to create competing versions of new K-12 student performance tests based on latest psychometric research. New tests could transform the learning environment in vast majority of public school classrooms beginning in 2014.

Expanded Hate Crimes Protections: Signed Hate Crimes Prevention Act (2009), which expands existing hate crime protections to include crimes based on a victim’s sexual orientation, gender, or disability, in addition to race, color, religion, or national origin.

Expanded Health Coverage for Children: Signed 2009 Children’s Health Insurance Authorization Act, which allows the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) to cover health care for 4 million more children, paid for by a tax increase on tobacco products.-------------REMEMBER HOW BUSH VETOED THIS?

Recognized the Dangers of Carbon Dioxide: In 2009, EPA declared carbon dioxide a pollutant, allowing the agency to regulate its production.

Expanded Stem Cell Research: In 2009, eliminated the Bush-era restrictions on embryonic stem cell research, which shows promise in treating spinal injuries, among many other areas.-------Another thing Bush refused to allow!

Provided Payment to Wronged Minority Farmers: In 2009, signed Claims Resolution Act, which provided $4.6 billion in funding for a legal settlement with black and Native American farmers who the government cheated out of loans and natural resource royalties in years past.-------------I'd like to see this congress pass such a thing now.

Killed the F-22: In 2009, ended further purchases of Lockheed Martin single-seat, twin-engine, fighter aircraft, which cost $358 million apiece. Though the military had 187 built, the plane has never flown a single combat mission. Eliminating it saved $4 billion.

More: http://www.washingtonmonthly.com/magazine/march_april_2012/features/obamas_top_50_accomplishments035755.php?page=1

[AnotherMcIntosh]

212. No. Health INSURANCE reform.

[Dragonfli]

78. The Republican controlled house is now writing his budgets?

Do they do sleepovers and pajama parties with him too?

[daa]

114. except

If they even propose cutting social security and Medicare we lose the Senate, simple as that. I got disappointed right off the bat when we elected OUR senators and then no filibuster reform. And soon as Mr Grande Bargain Legacy started talking cutting benefits, as well a Pelosi, Hoyer and others, I haven't sent a dime. I am saving it up to cover the cuts and political donations are the easiest thing to save.

I really don't know what he is thinking and he has lost my confidence. Even if taxes are raised, half the millionaires vote democrat. Koch is not going to suddenly back democrats. But if he even proposed the cuts, repugs will run saying I will protect you and there will be democratic voters that switch. It is not brave it is stupid to propose cutting something that polls show 80% of the people are opposed to.

[pmorlan1]

140. LOL

[Freddie Stubbs]

59. Was gun control an issue in last year's election?

[DrDan]

123. no - I phrased that pooorly

my point was that we won the election - yet we are giving in on key issues

[AnotherMcIntosh]

213. Agreed; agreed; and agreed.

[samplegirl]

13. Another big disappointment

I have just about had it being held hostage!

[Maraya1969]

14. Can they reverse this if it passes and we get a Democratic congress in 2014?

[HiPointDem]

18. they could, but they won't.

[forestpath]

23. I think President Obama has just ensured we won't get a Democratic congress in 2014.

[Le Taz Hot]

25. He did that with Obamacare.

It will be a disaster and the Democrats will be blamed -- as they should be.

[Glitterati]

111. He sure has

He wants a "legacy" so bad, he's sacrificing the Democratic party to get one.

There's no reason to vote for Democrats when they vote like Republicans. Why bother?

[YOHABLO]

218. I can't help but agree with you .. it's all about being 1st black president ... then

go back to some major university and teach law once a week .. write some books, give some speeches at $100,000 or more a pop .. and he'll go down in history as a hero. They always do. Yet, the people who were depending on that ''hope and change'' were short changed. What a naive, narcissistic person. Thanks Obama for growing a pair ... NOT!

[daa]

118. BINGO we have a winner eom

[Maraya1969]

168. Well if you keep thinking like that we won't.

Just what we need - more pessimism.

Obama could be playing the same game he played before Jan 1 when the repubs denied everything and when it came down to the wire he said to Boner, "YOU GET NOTHING"

[forestpath]

169. My THINKING has nothing to do with it. It's Obama's ACTIONS that are the problem.

And if Obama is playing a "game," it's a very cruel and risky one.

[Maraya1969]

204. Well it worked like a charm the first time. He played them like a fiddle.

And I was one of the ones writing to him telling him he was crazy and what was the thinking etc? But after I saw how it all played out I realized he knew exactly what he was doing.

One thing I have learned about our President. He is several steps ahead of the rethugs and even us most of the time.

[Skittles]

224. how well what played out?

do you even SEE what is happening?

[Faygo Kid]

16. Under the bus we go

He really still thinks the GOP wants to govern, and he's willing to sacrifice the programs those of us who supported him through thick and thin depend on.

This stinks.

[RKP5637]

62. I often find it hard to get excited and jump up

and down about how great Obama is ... IMO this is the end of SS.

The next move will be to privatize SS and give it to the hucksters on wall street. They will then flush it down the toilet as they screw everyone for more wealth.

We are most all truly fucked in this country that waves the flag all of the time about how great it is ... piece by piece the country for "we the people" is being destroyed and replace with " we the oligarchs."

It's the boiling frog syndrome over and over again. And the 'deer in the headlight' people will say WTF, how did this happen.

[HiPointDem]

21. oh, but just imagine what romney would have done! get prosense out here to explain it to

everyone.

call your legislators and the white house.

[daa]

120. Romney would be terrified to try after chimpy proposed

privatizing social security first thing in his second term, spending some political capital, and immediately became an irrelevant lame duck.

[HiPointDem]

122. romney was just a plant to guarantee obama's reelection.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dummy_candidate

[progressoid]

150. I think even she recognizes that this is wrong

http://www.democraticunderground.com/10022618445

[treestar]

170. Rmoney would have had a Republican congress

and would have therefore done a lot more of what the Rs want done - everything would be farther to the right than it is now.

[Capt. Obvious]

22. Surely someone will be here soon to explain this away

[tridim]

24. And it will be immediately rejected by the Republicans

The administration knows this.

[Le Taz Hot]

27. So, we can

just chill the fuck out 'cause he's got this? I feel better already.

[tridim]

28. If you're a simpleton, then yes you can boil it down to that.

[Le Taz Hot]

33. I-21

[pangaia]

61. I just don't trust the guy any more.

[Capt. Obvious]

143. This post inspired me

[blkmusclmachine]

183. HA!

Riiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiight..

[whathehell]

32. Not at all sure about that, and, in any case, he's got a lot of guts "bargaining" with our money

Does anyone still believe this man is a democrat?

[blkmusclmachine]

184. Does anyone still believe this man is a democrat?

No.

[Dragonfli]

63. A majority of people let him know they don't want this - ignored

We must ask, call and beg Republicans to look out for us instead?

We must HOPE the Republicans come through and protect us from his really bad CHANGES.

Does he just like to scare the shit out of seniors and giggle while the Republicans get to play the heroes that protect them from catfood cuts Obama?

That is a really shitty strategy as there is no positive result possible,

In one scenario Republicans save SS and we get destroyed in the mid terms for offering it up like cold sushi on a platter
In the other the Republicans take him up on it and we get destroyed in the midterms for asking for catfood cuts that everyone but the wealthy elite hate the very idea of.

Is he taking a dive here to improve the Republicans image? Or is he just trying to screw seniors, veterans, and the Democratic party for a cushy job at one of Pete Peterson's many front operations?

Horrible chess player, and a bit dim since he doesn't understand SS is not part of the budget they are cutting.

[HiPointDem]

68. +1

[tridim]

77. Do you not understand that Republicans say no to EVERYTHING the admin proposes?

The majority of the people want compromise, and that's exactly what Obama is doing in this impossible situation.

The Republicans will not compromise, SS anMedicarere will not be cut, and they will pay for it dearly with massive losses in 2014. Obama knows this. You should to.

[Chef Eric]

89. This sets a dangerous precedent, regardless of what the Repubs do. nt

We all know this.

You should too. That's too with two o's.

[dajoki]

154. Yes it does...

to actually have a Democratic president offer up these cuts is unthinkable. But it appears that is exactly what is happening.

[blkmusclmachine]

185. Obama's Catfood:

Now with more bull.

[Dragonfli]

92. the people have clearly stated they don't want these cuts HE IS CHAMPIONING

If SS medicare are not cut as you say, people will blame him for trying as hard as he could to lobby for entitlement cuts and praise Republicans for stopping him.

When the majority of the people want compromise, it is not a compromise of principle they want nor a commitment to gamble with their trust fund.

He is also continuing the Republican lie that SS cuts will trim a budget it has nothing to do with.
If you support these offers , this gambling with grandma's retirement check then you have to honestly consider if you belong with the Republican party.

[Dryvinwhileblind]

26. DINObama, DINOClinton(s), DINOsorry excuses, third way sellouts, and...

...what other realistic choices did We have? We finally elect our Man in 2000?, rigged, and stolen. Then again in '04?, rigged, and stolen. Now We'll see who's who in congress, and perhaps We'll see a filibuster that actually matters, for once. One party, two divisions, playing Us for fools, and tools. Again. FKM.
Just Us.

[whathehell]

148. Yup..This is why, IMO, we need to reject any more DINO Candidates for President

like Hillary, for instance.

What can we do?....The only thing I can think of is to try like hell to get

a progressive, like Elizabeth Warren and/or Sherrod Brown, 'cause this DINO shit

is really starting to smell.

[totodeinhere]

174. I understand what you are saying, but silly me, I had thought that Obama was a progressive

when I voted for him in 2008. What is going to stop someone else from fooling us again?

[whathehell]

176. Well, I might have to agree with your self description, as I never thought he was a progressive.

He has a "D" after his name, but I never thought of him as anything beyond a conservative

to moderate democrat.

What gave you the idea that he was "progresive"?

[Snarkoleptic]

29. Alternate headline-

Grover Norquist succeeds in bid to get a Democratic President to shoot Santa Claus.

[blkmusclmachine]

186. More like push Grandma off the cliff.

With malice and forethought. Just need a plausible cover.

[liberal N proud]

30. Another rug being pulled from under my feet.

First they kick you out of your job when you reach middle age, all the while telling you that you will have to work longer because you can expect to live longer than your parents.

Then they raise the SS eligibility age so now you have to work longer at a lower wage job than you started your career at before you can draw social security.

NOW! - NOW, they want to just make that worthless.

[Faryn Balyncd]

31. The CPI is aleady rigged to UNDER-estimate inflation. "Chained CPI" is THEFT.

The SS Trust Fund is the most fiscally responsible federal program in history,.. the ONLY program to not only totally fund itself, but to accumulate a $2.3 trillion surplus, loaned to the Treasury, secured by bonds, financing the deficit created by the passage of unprecedented low income tax rates for those at the very top, even during times of simultaneous wars.

This surplus is sufficient to finance the full payment of SS obligations through the mid 2030's with absolutely NO changes, by which time a significant proportion of the baby boom will no longer be drawing benefits.

Proposing the fraudulent "chained CPI" to further aggravate CPI calculations which were ALREADY RIGGED to underestimate true inflation is THEFT.

And the purpose of the theft is to turn payroll taxes into a permanent revenue stream for the general Treasury budget, so that income taxes can remain artificially at unsustainably low rates for the 1%.

[byeya]

40. SS operates on a 1% overhead. The under-reported real inflation was part of the deal in the 1980s

to save Social Security "forever".

[pangaia]

66. BINGO !

[Capt. Obvious]

95. Not yet. I have to hit other threads to fill my card

[G_j]

86. ""Chained CPI" is THEFT. "

[madokie]

34. In this mornings paper is an article that the President says

flatly that there is no cuts to medicare in his budget. So which is it, is the President lying to me or is someone making up shit to throw at the President.
Tulsa World newspaper is my morning paper if you want to confirm what I'm saying.
WWW.tulsaworld.com

[DrDan]

38. no cuts - but means testing to insure the middle class gets to share pain with the wealthy

[madokie]

43. I didn't see any mention of that either

I could have missed it so the next trip to the library I'll check it out to see if I had.

I wonder if we just don't have a lot of O bashing going on here, actually

[tridim]

53. If you read the thread closely it's Obama bashing AND Democrat bashing.

All for something that hasn't happenened and will not happen under this Democratic administration.

[madokie]

74. Sure it is and thats what I'm trying to bring out

[DrDan]

129. so Obama is not proposing chained CPI and means testing?

[madokie]

136. Every time I've seen him speak and or read what he says

I don't hear those words. I see him or read that he throws shit out to make the republicons look like fools who are bent on not allowing him to get anything passed that even looks like he might be for it so the american people can see the fools for who they are. In his proposals I keep looking for all the shit I read online about how the president is folding yet again. Theres only so much he can do due to what I just said so in a lot of ways his hands are tied. Its like the American people, republicon voters actually, put the pukes in charge of the house just so they could make sure no more like him make it to the white house, His presidency has shown we're still very much a racist country and a lot of other things. I can imagine what they'll do to Hillary if she decides to run. But back to what the topic is. I think we should cut the guy some slack and get our asses in the streets. Anyone here knows where the problems lie. Its called racism, bigotry and republican party, the GOP the grand old party, yup that is where our energies should be directed. IMHO

the pukes have president O so toxic that even if he breaths and it sounds like the name of a bill coming up it won't get off the table. He knows that, I know that. The villain in all this is not President Obama but rather the rich and their lackies, many who happen to be our congress critters, mostly republicons along with some democrats too.

Another issue is campaign finance reform but I'll shut up for now.

[eilen]

116. Actually there have been cuts to Medicare

throughout Obama's tenure but they are not labeled as such. Instead they are trumpeted as "cost-saving measures" or "cuts to providers." What do you think a cut to provider is? It is a medicare cut. It means that a provider is going to look at their statement and their letter from Medicare demanding paybacks and determine they will no longer take Medicare patients. It is kind of like my job that offers great benefits like paid vacation time but doesn't allow you to actually take the vacation because they have critical staffing needs.

[Dragonfli]

119. what is your 1 800 psychic number? You have knowledge of the future

"will not happen under this Democratic administration." Do you have any proof besides your awesome future knowledge that will guarantee this?

One more thing, YOUR INSISTENCE ON CALLING OPPOSITION TO ENTITLEMENT CUTS ON A DEM BOARD BASHING means that your roots are showing, only Republicans hate the act of defending SS so much they'll feel compelled to accuse SS advocates of bashing.

That behaviour should get you hidden just for the hatred and name calling if defenders of SS, I won't alert tho, I want all to see you for the SS hater you are.

[DrDan]

128. from the link in the OP

"In Medicare, the savings would mostly come from payments to health care providers, including hospitals and pharmaceutical companies, but Mr. Obama also proposes that higher-income beneficiaries pay more for coverage"

[DrDan]

127. fro the link in the OP

"In Medicare, the savings would mostly come from payments to health care providers, including hospitals and pharmaceutical companies, but Mr. Obama also proposes that higher-income beneficiaries pay more for coverage"

[HiPointDem]

35. kr

[Cobalt Violet]

36. Fuck him.

Doesn't he know he won the election? So fucking stupid.

[littlemissmartypants]

41. Despicable game of chicken with peoples lives and livelihoods. eom

[RKP5637]

76. Exactly!!! And so many are out of sight, out of

mind with very little voice. Only $$$$$ counts in USA, INC. Without lots of $$$$$, you really aren't a player in USA, INC. It's not the country I grew up with ...

Millions of Americans ... MILLIONS of Americans are destitute in this country ... hardly ever, if ever, does one hear MSM talking about the daily plights of millions of Americans in USA, INC.

This is truly la la land America. There is a serious cancer brewing in this country and it is bandaged over while the cancer of dystopia grows and the oligarchy becomes more wealthy.

[DanTex]

42. This is really disappointing.

Someone explain this to me. It makes no sense. He's falling in to the same trap over and over again, making concessions like this. Does he really think that chained CPI is a good idea? And does he really think that the GOP is going to agree to higher taxes on the rich and stimulus spending in return?

No. They are going to take the chained CPI, and the higher taxes and stimulus are going to be "bargained" away.

I'm an Obama supporter. But this is very disappointing.

[Russd]

44. Social security

Knive in the back by Dems again(Clinton NAFTA)really getting tired of this BS. Been Dem for 30+ yrs. I don't know if I can do this anymore.i guess he's just another corp. whore!

[tridim]

48. And like clockwork the piggyback trolls show up to round out the daily bash Obama/Dems thread.

[blkmusclmachine]

187. Start an Obama photo thread.

Distract from Obama's bullsh/t RW framing and perpetual cowering to the insane GOP.

[cali]

52. Welcome to DU. Your proposal sucks.

[maddiemom]

81. But..."we the People" made it clear what we wanted last election...didn't we?

[Skittles]

221. "we the people" only includes rich fucks now

[John2]

90. I wouldn't vote

third party to save your life because it is an easy way to give the presidency to them. A better way is for a more liberal candidate to challenge the Democratic Establishment just like the Tea Partiers do to their candidate in the primaries. Hillary Clinton didn't beat Obama because he beat her over the head for being a Washington Politician and voting for the Iraq War. One thing Obama also had going for him was his race and Celebrities like Oprah Winfrey campaigning for him. By the way, where has she been lately? The wealthy seems to be all the same.

There are plenty of Progressives in Congress and one of them needs to challenge the President's favorite next election. They think it is about their money and it can buy votes. I think it is about ideas. They also think it was about Obama's charisma. I didn't vote for Obama because of his charisma. Any Democrat that goes along with a sell out needs to be primaried period within the Democratic party. Two can play their games. The middle is nothing but a big myth perpetuated by the corporate media and wealthy people, whom they really represent. That includes these Wars too. The whole enchilada benefits the wealthy.

[olegramps]

108. Your proposal to vote for a Third Party does nothing more than assure a Republican victory.

Is that you actual intentions Mr. Tennessee ploughboy? We saw what that did to the country when it allowed Bush to steal the election. That said, I would rather see the SS parole tax present cut off raised to a higher level.

[Left Turn Only]

121. Dangerous proposition but understandable

Instead of considering voting 3rd party, which is simply throwing your vote away, we Democrats have to start trying to get progressives running for the next set of primaries. Republicans have already figured out that working on a state level is the key to success on the national level. Also, if there is anyone out there with the Green Party, then we have to combine forces and bring the Greens in with us, so that we can overpower the Democratic party in the same way that the Tea Partiers did. But, in any event, we can't allow the Republicans to win by default; they ARE worse, and they are counting on Democratic defections now that they are loosing ground with the falling popularity of the religious right, women, and young people. As they say: don't cut off your nose to spite your face.

[IDemo]

51. Nattering Nabobs of Negativity

Enough about Rahmney....Hillary - 2016!!!

[Russd]

126. 2016

H. Clinton is not a progressive! Elizabeth Warren 2016

[RKP5637]

54. I don't know WTF political party I belong to

anymore. I need to evaluate why I send so many donations to the democratic party. I feel less and less representation. As I've often said, there is very little difference between R's and D's when it comes to big $$$$$. Obama IMO is often no exception. Compromise = cave-in.

[newfie11]

93. That's how I feel

They are becoming identical

[RKP5637]

161. See reply #147. That's what I'm going to start doing too. n/t

[whathehell]

147. I belong to the Progressive Democrats of America..I only give to Progressive Dems and

when the DSCC and the DCCC come calling, I tell them exactly that.

[RKP5637]

160. Thanks for this reply! I'm going to do the same. I'm fed up with the current direction! n/t

[whathehell]

165. Wow...You're very welcome! n/t

[99Forever]

55. But.. but ... but...

... I've been told dozens, if not hundreds of times that President Barack H Obama would NEVER do such a thing by all-knowing, all-seeing political PROs that were ABSOLUTELY CERTAIN it was only 11th dimensional chess strategy, far beyond the ability of us dumbass Liberals to understand and at the proper instant, the prize the Republicans have sought for decades would be snatched away, leaving them writhing on the ground, defeated, once and for all.

You mean to say we were lied to?

I am stunned. STUNNED I SAY!

[99Forever]

71. Yeah, right...

.. up until he does it.

Who the fuck do you think you are fooling?



(See I can do emoticons too. Isn't that special?)

[tridim]

79. There have been no cuts to SS and Medicare..

and there wont be under this administration unless the Republicans do it.

[99Forever]

83. So...

.. you guarantee that if there are cuts proposed, Obama will veto them?

Yes or no.

[Dragonfli]

103. LOL no, what he said was far trickier than that, he said that the cuts Obama has proposed

will be passed by Republicans not him, re read it, it's absurd but exactly what he is saying.

[blkmusclmachine]

188. The mean ol' GOP forced Obama to cut SS

[99Forever]

94. Well tridim..

... gonna answer the question? If there is a bill passed that cuts Medicare and/or Social Security, do you absolutely guarantee that Obama will veto it?

Yes or no?

Speak up.

[blkmusclmachine]

189. Troll went bye-bye.

[dajoki]

97. "unless the Republicans do it"

there are enough of Democrats in Congress to stop this crap. The Republicans can't do it without the help of the Democrats and President Obama.

[Dragonfli]

106. I think this tool expects us to believe the absurd, follow his logic

He knows it is the President that is making the proposal for these cuts.
He states that the cuts the President is asking for in writing won't happen.
Finally the mind bogglingly absurd statement is made
if these cuts offered in Obama's budget do happen
it will be Republicans that do it, apparently with Obama merely acting as their stenographer to get it in the budget, he works part time as a typist for them I guess.

[99Forever]

125. You know what really irks me?

Untold millions of lives are going to be adversely affected by this crap, and these tools are playing word games with it. As if we are so damn stupid we won't notice.

[blkmusclmachine]

190. +1 Dragonfli

They really do think we're THAT stupid.

[pangaia]

56. Traitor !

Just another corporate fascist. I worked to elect this guy? You bet.. twice.
Phone calls, donations, signs, house parties.. shit man,....
Boy am I stupid.

And the argument that.. 'the other guy would have been worse,' is no argument at all.
Or the repubs block everything--steaming meadow muffins...

Hey...Obama, stop sending your girls on vacation(like all those ugly repubs say) and help us human beings....
And stop laughing so much. There is NOTHING to laugh about.
And stand up for something.

Oh, thanks for taking the 5% cut, I'm sure THAT really hurt. Big f*****g deal...

Were finished. it's over. I'm 69. can't stop working....which is fine.. but...

I thought I would feel better after that. I don't. I have no say in anything.


Criticisms and consoling words, welcome.

[tridim]

69. WORSE THAN BUSH!!!!1111

He has NOT cut SS and medicare, but that's just a minor detail I guess.

[Cobalt Violet]

109. For the sake of compromising with republicans he would.

That's not what we elected 2x for.

[840high]

205. +1 and hugs. Same boat as you.

[pangaia]

211. Thanks for the hugs. :>)

Let's just keep paddling.

[n2doc]

65. Obama has moved to the right each year since election in 08

Seems like by 2015 he will be proposing the abolition of all social programs, at this rate.

One can only hope the repubs don't take the bait, yet again. But someday they will.

[IDemo]

70. And for the trillionth post of this on DU:

Seems appropriate this morning. (Hint - go directly to the 1:50 mark to cut to the chase)

[UnrepentantLiberal]

72. "The truth of the matter is

that my policies are so mainstream that if I had set the same policies that I had back in the 1980s, I would be considered a moderate Republican." - President Barack Obama

[blkmusclmachine]

191. Obama: "I agree with Romeny. I agree with Romney. I agree with Romney. I agree with Romney."

Remember that "debate"?

[winter is coming]

73. It's still the third rail. Massage the definitions all you like, but a cut is a cut. n/t

[blkmusclmachine]

192. Obama's CPI. It's not a cut. It's "enhanced math."

Pelosi said so.

[winter is coming]

197. Mmhmm, and that black stuff in Arkansas isn't oil. n/t

[kdmorris]

82. Disgusting...absolutely disgusting

I am so disappointed right now.

[Chef Eric]

84. If you had told me 25 yrs. ago that a Dem. President could do such a thing...

I would have called you a lunatic.

I think this is a disgrace.

[bowens43]

85. he kisses conservative ass on every important issue every time

I am completely ashamed that I voted for this spineless wonder.

[840high]

206. He is assuring himself

a most comfortable future. The hell with us.

[MissNostalgia]

87. For those who sat home in 2010

thanks!

[Le Taz Hot]

100. You're talking to the wrong group.

Nobody here stayed home.

[RILib]

102. Exactly

Nobody stayed here stayed home. We are betrayed once again by the DLC Democratic in Name Only. In 2008, I thought Hillary would have been a disaster, little did I know Obama = Hillary.

[treestar]

171. Exactly

It is like cutting off their nose to spite their face! Let's just make things even worse! That'll make us feel better.

[gordianot]

91. Well when do we pull out os South Korea or scrap ALL Treaty Obligations?

Republicans are the enemy.

[geek tragedy]

98. I guess he doesn't really want Democrats to win in 2014.

Give away the farm on the New Deal programs, with no concessions on the Republican side.

Brilliant stuff.

[blkmusclmachine]

193. That's the plan for 2014. And 16.

Makes "bi-partisaning" SO MUCH EASIER when it's all (R).

Trojan horse

[Jakes Progress]

99. Rich men who will never need SS

taking money from real people. Why? Cowardice. Avarice. Ignorance. Greed.

Shame on anyone who calls themselves a Democrat that votes for this - let alone proposes it.

This will be Obama's legacy. This will be what he is known for.

[xiamiam]

145. his legacy includes drones, afghanistan, not prosecuting war crimes, geithner,helping wall street

and NOT helping main street, corporate appointments of men who should be indicted, and 100 men starving themselves as I write this because they are cleared to go home after 11 years and no trial but he wont let them return to their country of origin.

I'm ready for social security now...and after losing almost everything because of the financial crisis and ill health, I care and I need it..but I care more about the mayhem and death and destruction we cause..the never ending war and terror. Thats where our social security money is going..the trillions that should be helping us instead of lining the pockets of the weapons manufacturers and never ending war machine. Nothing that Obama does surprises me...nothing. I sat here watching the Afghanistan surge speech in 2009...right here on DU with my jaw dropped to the floor..and I knew then for certain what he is. I underestimated however, his fascination and diabolical use of drones. I also thought that he would follow thru with at least one campaign promise of significance. I was wrong but at this point, not surprised.

[RILib]

101. So glad he had time to do this; thought he was busy queued up to approve the keystone pipeline

Can we please have a Democratic President next time? Uncle Joe Biden, please run in 2016

[John2]

110. There are enough

progressives in Congress that should throw their hats in the ring to shake up the establishment. Debate them in the primaries and don't just coronate them as the leader. Obama had no opposition and he said what he wanted to, just because of it. A woman, hispanic or any white person with the right idea can shake up the Democratic Party because of the diversity within it. It is exactly what Lincoln did. He was recruited by an anti-slavery movement. The Democratic Party needs a movement within their ranks from the Left side of the Party because I believe they are the majority within their Party. Supporting a third Party candidate is suicidal when there is no need. I can think of a number of candidates, left leaning organizations can put money behind, if they only recruit them to run. Take the actress that couldn't run in Tennessee or Kentucky for example. She might not have the right ideas suited for those areas but she would have more popularity in a national campaign than a Republican rightwing candidate. People need to use their heads more than reacting emotionally. These left leaning organizations need to recruit and run their own candidates instead of marching in lock step with the Party favorite.

[dajoki]

175. By the time...

the repubs get done screwing with the Electoral Collage it won't matter much.

[AsahinaKimi]

104. I really don't understand this.

what is he thinking?

[on point]

105. OR, "Obama leaves closet, admits he was repuke all along"

[NorthCarolina]

142. He has already confessed to being an "80's style Republican".

Many of us knew it all along, but of course were marginalized on sites like this for even hinting at it. If he had been a true Democrat, TPTB would have never allowed him to make it beyond the primaries back in 08. It's an illusion that voters choose the president. Wall Street chooses the acceptable candidates, and then the voters are allowed to choose between the allowable choices. If that were not a fact, we would have had a President Bernie Sanders, or the like, well before now.

[blkmusclmachine]

194. +1000

Smoke and mirrors. Total sham and fabrication.

Now we know why they want their 30,000 Armed Drones patrolling US skies. To protect THEM from US.

9/11

[NorthCarolina]

210. Turning a blind eye to corporate sponsored tea party rally's

with gun toting protestors, while Homeland Security felt it necessary to keep tabs on peaceful genuinely grassroots occupy protests. Kind of underlines where we are at in this country.

[valerief]

107. Terrible!!! nt

[randome]

124. He doesn't expect Republicans to bite. Then there will be the inevitable House/Senate compromise.

Neither the president nor senior aides privately hold much hope that Republican leaders — Mr. Boehner and Senator Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, the Senate Republican leader — will compromise. So Mr. Obama’s strategy of reaching out to other Senate Republicans reflects a calculation that enough of them might cut a budget deal with the Democratic Senate majority. If that happens, the reasoning goes, a Senate-passed compromise would put pressure on the House to go along.

So I think it's another way to weaken the Republicans.

I'm not definitively saying that's the case because on its face, it doesn't look good. But I'll keep my powder dry for now.

[loudsue]

130. I am one of those that would be affected by chained CPI, and I am FURIOUS at Obama.

WTF is he thinking? Does he already have a bunch of democratic senators that will vote against this? Enough to make it not pass? Is that his strategy? So that he can say to the republicans "see? I went the whole way with you?" I hope like hell he has some sort of strategy that I don't see right now.

[Comrade_McKenzie]

131. The hyperbole and low information reeks in this thread. nt

[blkmusclmachine]

195. And, as usual, your post rises above it all.

:~P

[lib2DaBone]

133. Not to worry... Obama promises he won't sign NDAA........

He will also close Gitmo and stop torture. He'll bring the troops home from Afghanistan.

Obama is just playing 3-dimension chess.. we have to give him time.. he has only had 5 years so far...

[AllyCat]

134. Terrible, terrible move Mr. President. What a slap to all who believed in you

to protect our most vulnerable. Disappointment does not express my feelings right now.

[John2]

137. I think the safety net

needs to be increased, not cut. That is my message to President Obama. I actually think the warmongering needs to be cut. I'm definitely out of step with him. There is no other solution but to challenge him. The Left needs to recruit their own leader and challenge the group he caters to within the Party. It is a power struggle that needs to take place. I do not agree with the Foreign or Domestic Policies he seems to be advocating. That Policy advocates more protracted Wars and targets the weak on domestic Policies within this country. It is wrong headed period. He has nobody within his cabinet advocating that or representing the more liberal wing of the Party. His cabinet represents a bunch of neocons and advocates of Wall Street. They got elected on more Liberal Policies, only to move towards the Right after the Election. It shows a lack of respect for the actual voters that put them in office. The safety net is not the wasteful spending and is not the real problems in the economy or with the Debt. The real problem is Greed at the Top and protacted Wars, this country cannot sustain. We are making promises to Foreign countries, that we cannot sustain. They need to provide for their own economies, human rights and national security problems like it should be. Regardless of what their past history was. This is 2013, not 1945. We need to move off the past for our own good.

[pmorlan1]

138. Shameful!

RIP Democratic Party.

[Orsino]

139. And the GOP get to blame him for it.

And so do I.

[JEB]

146. The Democratic Party

left me today.

[still_one]

152. The president has made a fool of himself with this, and bonner already rejected it. After 6 years

Of trying to bend over for the repukes, and what has he learned?

[grahamhgreen]

153. Social Security Does Not Contribute One Nickel to the Deficit!

[KamaAina]

157. So much for all that hopey changey stuff.

Why doesn't he just tell Agent Orange "We do not negotiate with terrorists"?

[Initech]

162. No money for social security but we'll manage to find $700 billion to fight North Korea.

[jwirr]

172. I never thought that I would live to see a Democratic president cut these two programs. It leaves an

empty spot in my soul. As I have said before the CPI has never helped me because it is so little and is eaten up almost immediately by decreases in other programs such as food stamps but I do know that it is important to many.

[Generic Other]

173. He surrenders without protest at every opportunity

I am beginning to think it is because he's got no courage in him.

I am genuinely mystified.

[xiamiam]

177. I think he is just not what he presented himself to be...a democrat..nt

[blkmusclmachine]

180. Shameful. Deceptive. Party Killing.

Impeachable.

[Babel_17]

181. It's time for progressives in the media to demand to know

what the plan is, what's the end game.

This is no technocratic tweaking, this is the biggest, signature, program that our party has put in place and fostered.

President Obama's plans for it are rightfully to be held accountable by the guardians of the Democratic Party.

He risks a future ostracism if he would tear at our foundation.

[L0oniX]

198. Good cop to bad cop: psss ...hey lets play with SS so we can ignore the gun control thingy...

and if that doesn't work then let's ramp up this NK thing.

[JCMach1]

199. anyone think he isn't DLC now?

[spanone]

200. and the gop will reject them. not because they want to protect ss. they hate him.

[jsr]

201. It's the right move

for a right-wing politician.

[glinda]

203. Seriously, if they cut SS, we may loose our house or have to let our pets die. Awful.

Every year things go up for us and cuts will make it impossible to survive. Guess I could unplug the TV and burn candles.

[Bonobo]

207. Is this still, what did they call it..."anticipatory outrage" or some silly thing?

All the signs were there.

All the balloons were floated.

All the roadwork was done.

When real progressives sounded the alarm, they were scoffed at and called "disloyal".

If I had been one of the asshats that screamed about "anticipatory outrage" while posting emoticons of people rolling their eyes or rolling on the floor laughing, I would be fucking humiliated and wouldn't post in any of these threads out of shame...

Oh wait, someone IS missing....

[tout_le_monde]

209. This is Why the rePIGs Didn't Steal Election 2012

They knew they'd have an easier time (less public outcry) dismantling Social Security with a Democrat at the helm. Obama is like Oswald was...just a patsy in the process.

[AnotherMcIntosh]

214. In the good cop / bad cop routine, aren't we supposed to have a good cop somewhere?

[Arcanetrance]

215. What amuses me is the people here saying yeah its there but the Republicans won't accept it.

First off does that really change the fact that this was offered up to begin with. Furthermore what happens if they decide to call his bluff and say fine we will take this in return for tax hikes. Cause looking at it from their point of view there's an election in 2014 and 2016 they can always win the rest of the Congress and the white house in those elections and legislate new tax cuts.

[Skittles]

222. what else can the Groupies say???

they've got nothing left

[WinkyDink]

219. "Additional taxes on the wealthy" ARE IRRELEVANT. THE POOR WILL STILL SUFFER under this.