The hardcore tea party members of the Republican Party view it as proof of their opposition to Obama-care to threaten either a shut down of the government or default on our debt obligations. As they see it, if they are willing to take such drastic steps they must "really really really" dislike Obama-care.
Well, two can play at that game.
I suggest progressives start to demand the things they "really really really" care about or else.
Now, what would be on that list? My top three (3) would be:
1. Increase the minimum wage to $10 / per hour over the next two years ($9 on 1/1/2014 and $10 on 1/1/2015).
2. Permanently reduce student loan interest rates to zero percent.
3. Medicare for all.
If the Republicans want to threaten Armageddon (and it is just a threat because IT WILL NEVER HAPPEN) then the President and other Democrats should start doing the same thing.
I can hear you doubters saying if we threaten to be "hostage takers" it just makes us look dumb as the Republicans. Well maybe, but inaction isn't getting us anywhere either. In fact, once people start saying "give me what I want or Armageddon" we will weaken the argument and impact of those who do it on a regular basis. If Obama and Democrats don't start doing something fast then for 6 of the 8 years of Obama's presidency NOTHING will have gotten done and the middle class continues to crumble.
**Footnote: There are two things in Washington that we hear about all the time, but will never happen: 1. Harry Reid will NEVER properly reform the filibuster and 2. The government will not shutdown or default. **
So tell me your wish list for things that are so important Democrats should threaten Armageddon if we don't get them.