While some Republicans may have had misguided motivations, a few disrupted McCarthy's campaign in order to enact fiscal restraint. Their colleagues were fine with business as usual.
But…does that make any sense?
Putting America's depressing fiscal policy to a beat since 2011!
Plus: A Japanese billionaire will spend 12 days in space, Rep. Peter Meijer is resigned to a second political act for Donald Trump, and more...
There are five instances of the Treasury defaulting on the debt.
Plus: Why "reforming" Section 230 makes little sense, the FDA finally admits vaping is safer than smoking, the U.S. will reopen its land borders with Canada and Mexico, and more...
Friday A/V Club: In 1992, it was a paramilitary America Firster who wanted to #MintTheCoin.
Democrats want to raise the debt ceiling, while Republicans occasionally remember they're against big government spending.
The federal government will spend $57 trillion over the next 10 years and run an $11 trillion deficit. But cutting spending by $150 billion is too much to ask?
What's the point of a "limited government" bloc that doesn't limit government?
The feds can't pass a budget or do much very well, yet a record level of Americans want it more involved in our lives. That's not as crazy as it seems.
The former deficit hawk gets budget-busting religion now that he holds real power.
Reason editors discuss the debt ceiling, Hurricane Irma, and the 9/11 anniversary.
The president and congressional Democrats just worked together on a bad debt ceiling and budget deal.
Plenty of GOP members would rather put Barack Obama on Mount Rushmore than underwrite this addled project.
The best place to start would be a cap on all spending or a strict cut-as-you-go system.
"If you find yourself in a hole, stop digging."
Senator holds back his desire to use profanity in describing the super-spendy bill.
Outsider could wage a Ross Perot-style crusade against the national debt, if only his tongue would get out of the way
This is what you get with GOP control of Congress
Warns against not standing on principle
Challenger Matt Bevin says McConnell caved to the left
Vast majority in some position of House leadership
Debt ceiling debacle
Turning to Democrats to get it passed
Vote moved because of East Coast snow storm
Plan doesn't have enough support
Bill might not make it to the floor of the House
Wants to keep borrowing indefinitely
Two in three Republicans or Republican-leaning independents view the recent fiscal stalemate negatively
Says he is sympathetic to the views of the Tea Party, but thinks their approach was "undemocratic"
Americans are kept frightened, and politicians get to spend, tax, borrow, and coerce as usual.
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