When you control the part of the government that controls spending, you control everything; but only if you are willing and courageous enough to use that power.
Exactly! We'd still be in Vietnam today if it was another way.
Now come on. You really think it's that simple? Newt (Republicans) had both both houses of congress in 2005 and yet caved to Clinton vetos. Pelosi had both Houses in 2007 and caved to Bush vetos on war spending.
Recall 2005 Newt announces he wants a shutdown, had the media crucify Republicans for it using his statements, public opinion turns against them, Newt caves in and gives into all of Clintons demands, he pays federal workers full pay and benefits for the three weeks off costing more than keeping it open royally pissing off voters. Then Clinton easily wins Re-election.
I want them to WIN this time and Bachmann appears to also. Unless we can turn public opinion against Obama and Reid on this, a brave stand will turn to a disaster. Bachmann is much smarter than she is being given credit for. If public opinion turns on Obama he will cave and vice versa.