[ClearCase_guy]

I agree with that. That's probably a smarter way to go. But my point is that each political party wants to wrap their arms about large parts of the budget and say "Can't touch this!" We will never get anywhere if the public perceives that the Republicans are joining in that game. The Democrats, of course, can play that game and be shielded by the media.

Republicans need to be seen as very open to all kinds of budget cuts. Now, we should not give away the store and do something stupid -- but let's not fool ourselves: cuts are coming and everyone is going to feel the pain. Let the public know that we are participating.

[T-Bird45]

Rather than tit for tat as you guys propose how about we require the appropriation bills to cite the Constitutional authority for funding a particular endeavor? There is no doubt that true Defense appropriations can meet muster but it starts to get interesting when you consider education, welfare/entitlements, etc.