Reply #35: The biggest mistake everyone seems to be making is the idea you've expressed

[stopbush]

that Obama "held all the cards."

The fact is that the Senate voted against a version of the plan that didn't extend the tax cuts for the rich. The "hand" Obama was dealt had that card in there in spades. There was no getting around the fact that the Rs would have been more than happy to let nothing happen until January.

Why people keep averring that the Rs would have caved on this or unemployment benefits or anything else before 12/31 is beyond me. Two years of absolute intransigence from the Senate Rs and people think they would suddenly change their tune right before their numbers go up in the Senate and they retake the House?

Please.