The $1.8T cuts approved by Congress in Dec will be illusory, kicking in in the “out years” or counting things that were winding down anyway, like the wars.
What Obama will be able to say during the election is look, I “solved” the spending and debt problems together with the “responsible” Republicans, and it’s not an issue anymore [yes, you and I know that’s bs]. Now let’s talk about how racist my opponents are.
In the end, I don’t think any of this will matter. The election will come down to jobs. If unemployment doesn’t get any better, he’ll lose. If it gets better, he’ll win.
All this other stuff is for show.
If it’s still at 9% or higher in the fall of 2012, he’s done. If it’s closer to 8% or even below it by then, he’ll win.
That’s why I want the details for that provision. My opinion of this compromise is withheld until we know what possible legislative tricks were placed within. On the surface it’s tolerable but trust isn’t something I extend any longer.