Social Security is not on Obama's hit list ~ Salon

[mzmolly]

The president knows that Republicans won't agree to the revenue increases necessary for a "grand bargain"

What could Obama possibly be thinking? The Washington Post and New York Times are both reporting that the president has decided to "go big" on the debt ceiling negotiations: Suddenly, big cuts to Medicare and Social Security are supposedly on the table, and instead of seeking $2 trillion in overall spending reductions over the next 10 years, the White House is now proposing $4 trillion in cuts over the same period.

Progressives are not amused, to put it mildly, at the prospect of a Democratic president unilaterally dismantling the social welfare state. Congressional Democrats are reportedly "anxious," "worried" and caught "off guard." Republican proposals to slash Medicare have proven to be a potent political weapon for Democrats -- and now Obama has gone over to the dark side?

It's all very confusing. Just a few days ago, the president was preaching a "balanced approach" to deficit reduction that included revenue increases as well as spending cuts. Republicans rejected his stance out of hand. So how does it make sense to seek even greater spending cuts?

The answer is that it doesn't make sense. Here's why: http://www.salon.com/technology/how_the_world_works/2011/07/07/reasons_not_to_panic_on_obama_and_social_security/index.html">MORE AT SALON.COM

[LiberalAndProud]

1. I wonder if that's really how this will play out.

So no budget deal, the debt ceiling won't be raised. Then what?

Are the Republicans overplaying their hand?

[mzmolly]

2. I have no idea.

I'm completely baffled. Some suggest Obama may declare the debt ceiling unconstitutional. I doubt that, personally.

My guess is that they'll ultimately try to impose a means test for SS and close some of tax loop holes. :shrug: Or, they'll back Republicans into a corner, and we'll be back to the unconstitutional debt ceiling option. :crazy:

[mzmolly]

3. Kicking in light of recent news.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/business/economy/2011/07/09/gIQARUJ55H_story.html?wpisrc=al_national