Just to be clear, the debt obligation could have been met. without raising the debt ceiling, it is that sort of misinformation that really bothers me (not directed at you, I mean the media reporting and rhetoric from both sides). Neither side wanted to debate the spending choices if they did not raise the dc, this is where I think they are all grossly irresponsible.
I like your 2014 senerio, I would support the president's and the senates rights to do that, if they believed it was that important. These are the rules they govern under. Would I like it? maybe not, will I call them names for standing up for what they believe? I hope not.
Some people believe the Congress did push a major unilateral policy change, in ACA, that is what this debate was about this week. The damage or benefits of that remain to be seen.
Government is probably the biggest single expenditure in my budget, bigger then my savings, my housing, transportation, or food. I do not think what I (or the rest of humanity) gets for that price, is worth it. The dabate this past week was about how your and my tax money is being spent. I want our government to do a better job with it, and I was glad to see a healthy debate, and get a more clear picture or where are elected representatives stand on the issue of fiscal responsibility.