The end of the United States as we know it.

[Stonepounder]

We are witnessing the end of the United States that we have known all our lives. If we get to Oct 17 with no resolution, things will fundamentally change. If Obama continues to pay the obligations that Congress has passed into law and survives impeachment, then the debt ceiling will be no more and the power of the Executive will be greatly enhanced. Congress will no longer have the debt ceiling to use as a lever to move the President.

If he allows the US to default on its obligations, most economists agree that it will be ruinous to the global economy. We will be plunged into a global depression that would make the Great Depression of the30's look like a minor hiccup.

OTOH, if Obama caves to the House, then the Executive will become as the Monarch in Great Britain, more a figurehead than a ruler, since Congress can, effectively get rid of any law or program the majority party in one house disagrees with.

Either way, enhanced Executive or enhanced Legislative, the balance between the branches of our government will be fundamentally changed. Additionally, the longer this gridlock over authorization to pay the legitimate debts of the United States goes on, the greater the risk of the fragmentation (Balkanization) of the US.

[kestrel91316]

1. Those "patriotic" teabaggers who "love the Constitution" are salivating at the prospect of this.

The only conceivable reason for this disconnect is that they are looking forward to any opportunity to use their guns against anyone and everyone who displeases them. It will be open season on liberals and minorities and non-fundies if they pull it off.

[Mojorabbit]

5. There are plenty of armed liberals. They might be in for a surprise. nt

[Doctor_J]

7. Meh. Liberals will never fight back

Not a single Hate Radio or Fox "News" host has been put down, during 20 years of treason, sedition, and terrorism. Not going to suddenly get some spine.

[DJ13]

2. Congress will no longer have the debt ceiling to use as a lever to move the President

It would return us to sanity.

The debt ceiling was not meant to be a target to coerce concessions by a minority party.

That is a recent trend.

[Kennah]

3. I hope he defies them, pays the debts, and let the fucking Impeachment theater destroy the GOP

[randome]

4. Regardless, I think this is the end of the GOP as we know it.

[hr][font color="blue"][center]Birds are territorial creatures.
The lyrics to the songbird's melodious trill go something like this:
"Stay out of my territory or I'll PECK YOUR GODDAMNED EYES OUT!"[/center][/font][hr]

[MarchemintotheSea]

6. America DIED on January 20, 1981

The the fragmentation (Balkanization) of the US.












The fragmentation (Balkanization) of the US could be good thing. Perhaps this nation is to big to effectively run as currently configured.

We just might be better off. Something to ponder.