[central_va]

You are really missing the point. To secede renders the ties to DC irrelevant. Those tied to DC must learn to survive. Anyone working defense would now be working for the seceding states defense anyway.

If you have bone cancer in your leg you cut it off and worry about walking later.

[alancarp]

Fair point... and I agree with you. However, my (unclear) point is that no matter what the sentiment towards secession is, the people will refuse to go through the immediate pain required in order to get the long term cure.