While progressives we think that the fact that it is great that defense cuts are included (and it is a good thing), the old adage, be careful what you wish for, may come into play.
Can you not see the TV ads, the talking points right now in the upcoming election.
"They extended the debt ceiling and cut the defense budget, how secure do you feel now?"
Now remember election are not about what is the truth, but about what you can make people believe. And if nothing else the Republicans have very very good at exploiting the slightest, most dubious of issues. And the Dems are soft on defense is an old stand-by that they will be able to exploit.
Sure Republicans are voting for it, but they will be able to say they were forced into it, because when it comes to who is strong on defense, the Republicans manage to own that piece of fiction.
I mean lets look at the themes from this debt crisis: Out-of-control spending by Obama, taxes are too high, the Republicans have driven the narrative so that folks think its true. Don't doubt for a second they will be able to exploit defense cuts as well.
I am not saying it is a good thing, but be prepared, because it is coming. Don';t underestimate the Republicans ability to make this an issue.