Ohio lawmakers key players in debt debate
Columbus Dispatch – Deep divisions among Ohio lawmakers mirror the broad chasm separating Democrats and Republicans on how to increase the federal government’s $14.3 trillion debt ceiling by Aug. 2.
One Ohio lawmaker is a central figure in the debate. Another is a former White House budget director who is guiding his fellow Republicans on the technicalities of the debt ceiling. Another says it’s fine to make some cuts along with raising the debt ceiling, as long as Medicare and Social Security aren’t radically changed.
A look at how key Ohioans are influencing the debate:
More than anyone in Congress, House Speaker John Boehner is caught between those who want to negotiate a deal to curb spending and increase the debt ceiling, and those who breezily dismiss the dangers of a default.