The Debt Ceiling

The office of Congressman Dan Benishek (R-MI)

The debt ceiling debate has become all consuming. Its effect, its seriousness, are tangible in Washington. In terms of policy, other matters suddenly seem less important. When Chip and I walked through Cannon House Office building yesterday, the usual energy was replaced with silence. Quite frankly, the joviality and amusing aggression that I have come to associate with DC has been replaced -- at least temporarily -- with a more somber and even exasperated mood as both August 2 and the Congressional vacation nears. Coincidentally, this mood is exhilarating. Never before have I felt so in the thick of things. After weeks of posturing and years of kicking the can really, really, really hard, Washington and government are finally moving, frantically. They've tried kicking the can again; it just won't go anywhere this time. Having originally supported default, I've come to support the Boehner plan for two reasons. First, it sets a standard -- the new norm for future increases will have to include spending cuts and NO added revenues. Second, it allows Republicans leverage, because they're demonstrating unity. August 2 is only a few days away: if the Boehner bill passes, the Republicans ought to dare the Democrats to not accept their solution. Thus tonight has been the most intense night of all. The leadership won't call the bill until they have the votes. Earlier tonight, they called a recess. Draw your own conclusions. I sure hope Boehner will get the votes he needs. A true mandate would come in the form of the Senate and the White House in 2012.