Analysis: Lessons learned, default fault abounds

People say they want less squabbling from their elected leaders, yet they continue to oust moderates and vote in candidates who proudly say they will not compromise.
Monday, August 1, 2011 | 7:48 p.m. CDT

WASHINGTON — It took the threat of economic calamity to force Congress and President Barack Obama to finally reach a debt deal. Just like it took a near government shutdown to compel them to strike a budget agreement in April. And the prospect of an unpopular tax hike at the start of the year to force them to compromise in December.

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