Yes, it’s a contest of wills and obama is enjoying every minute of it. He thinks he has a mandate and can do as he pleases. He likes to see the Repuplicans squirm.. he thinks it makes them look weak, and him with power.
"Polls" show most people want higher taxes on the rich. The MSM seems to be ignoring the part of the same polls that say just as many (and more in some polls) want the government to cut spending.
Going over the cliff will do both. I think people will accept it. If Boner chooses just the tax cuts, he's going against the will of the people who kept the Republicans in charge of the purse strings. People want BOTH.
Personally, I think only spending cuts should be on the table. Under taxation is not the problem. 50% in mandatory government fees and various taxes is MORE than enough already!