A strategy for Democrats going forward:

[appal_jack]

This is from the FB page of a local, Democratic-organizing, completely no-nonsense and together woman who has my complete respect:

"So here's where I am. Democrats should hold the debt ceiling hostage until the Republicans drop Obamacare repeal/replace. There is a time to fight fire with fire, and that time is now."

I agree with her!

-app

[still_one]

1. How can they do that when they don't have the majority?

[appal_jack]

2. Unlikely bedfellows, etc.

Remember, enough of the Free-Dumb Caucus and Teapubli-kkk-an caucuses also are on record opposing the debt ceiling raise. So, there IS a majority who could oppose it.

Once 'mainstream' (whatever that means these days) Repubs realize that they can't spend a dollar without Democratic cooperation, the real negotiations can begin. And they should start with absolutely no cuts to Medicare & Medicaid, and a full continued implementation of the ACA.

Note, this is just a tactic toward an end: actually refusing to raise the debt ceiling indefinitely would harm Federal workers, crucial programs, etc. But a few days or weeks for Republican 'leadership' to confront that fact while they are in the ruling majority might be just the education they so sorely need.

-app

[still_one]

3. Thanks for the details