Ransom

https://www.nytimes.com/2023/06/03/business/biden-debt-ceiling-deal.html

("Biden's Debt-Deal: Win in the Fine Print")

"What was the score of the game?" And because more Democrats than Republicans supported the legislation, it was perceived by the President as a win for the good guys, those trying to prevent paying the exorbitant ransom demanded in exchange for keeping the global economy from doing a Titanic.

But the reality is merely that the donkeys are more pragmatic than their jackass adversaries. The Dems would have supported almost anything, swallowed their pride and a mountain of garbage to get this boat home safely. 

Far too many on the other side of the aisle, compelled by either personal zealotry or fear of revolt by their constituents, could not be seen to agree to anything less than total capitulation.

The fact that there were fewer casualties than there could have been does not mean this was government working as it should. 

On January 6, 2021 we witnessed the near collapse of the most fundamental aspect of our democracy, as what was intended as merely a pro forma exercise, confirming the results of an already contested election, became instead something never contemplated. So too, the "debt ceiling" approval should be for this nation but a "ceremonial" stamp on what was has already transpired. Instead, we are subjected to a virtual AR-15 held against our heads.

So, yes, we are still here. And yes, that ugliest of words, "default" can be put back in hibernation for two years. But this is our system of government functioning despite its worst efforts, not because of its best. 

There should simply be no room in our democracy for this form of hostage taking.