Why, it was but a week ago that Republicans were insisting that any unemployment extensions should be offset by cuts elsewhere:
"Make no mistake, I agree that they need help, but I look at it as: Are we going to do it from the bank account, or are we going to put it on the credit card?" -- Senator Scott Brown (R-MA)
"If it's paid for by cutting other items in the budget, I will be a yes vote. If it's added to further debts of the United States, no." -- Senator Mark Kirk (R-IL)
So, word is, the Obama Administration and Republican leaders may have a compromise ready, where Bush tax cuts are extended for all groups, and unemployment benefits are extended. And in one fell swoop, Republicans have yet again ignored the principles of Paygo. That shouldn't surprise anyone, because it was under a Republican-controlled Senate, House and White House that allowed Paygo to expire, then rejigger the rules to allow for increased deficit spending.
I'm not for Paygo, because I believe government needs the flexibility to grow deficits when necessary, and subsequently create surpluses when economic growth is strong. But I find it amazing at how quick Republicans are to revert to their hypocrisy.
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