I don't think it matters, I think Boehner could give Obama 100% of what he's asked for and Obama would just threaten a veto and move the goalposts. I think Obama WANTS to go over the so called fiscal cliff, because he gets two things democrats have been dreaming of for a decade, massive defense cuts and across the board tax increases when the bush cuts expire (don't believe for a second that Obama really cares about the middle class, revenue is revenue, he just wants Republican's to get the blame). Of course there IS that little provision about the billion in social spending cuts. But Obama knows all he has to do is drag out a parade of children who's school lunches will be cut, and senior citizens paying more for prescriptions and the Republican's will put there tail between their legs and reverse that part.
You are correct. There is only one thing in all of this that Obama wants - and that is to raise the debt ceiling. So my for Boehner and the GOP House is to not give it to him. Let him do anything he wants, but DO NOT RAISE THE DEBT CEILING. Call Obama's bluff. If he complains, then remind him that the last increase was supposed to carry him through the end of March. Tell him he has three months to come up with the $100 billion in spending cuts he promised.
Exactly!!!