A bit pessimistic. I am still hopeful that GOP will hold firm and let the country fall off the fiscal cliff. Everyone will share the pain and realize that there is no free lunch. Then we will see some real budget cutting. As one of the few who actually pays taxes (more than my share actually thanks to AMT) I will be delighted to see everyone including the lowest paid share the misery.
The continuing resolutions are a major problem. GOP should refuse to continue funding until Obama agrees to come to the table on the budget. We may not like compromise but we need to follow the process set up by law, not just push the problem forward.
And that's precisely what Obama is counting on because the fiscal cliff is coming regardless. The Left counts on our dependable reaction to outrage. When the House resists his ridiculous "fix" failure can then be blamed on the GOP.
For example, Bill Clinton lies under oath and the House predictably votes to impeach, righteously, I might add. Who gets stained by the spin for Clinton's crimes? The man even campaigns for the usurper on nostalgia for his second term.