In Congress, Gridlock and Harsh Consequences

Even in some of the worst years of partisan gridlock, a deadline has meant something to Congress — until 2013. Drop-dead dates have come and gone this year, causing real-world consequences. On Jan. 1, tax rates went up not only for affluent families, but also for virtually all workers when lawmakers looked the other way and let a payroll tax cut expire. On March 1, after leaders from both parties declared that automatic, across-the-board spending cuts would never happen, they happened anyway because of inaction. “One hundred percent of Congress opposed it, and we’re doing it,” said Rep Peter Welch (D-VT). “That’s a sign of a dysfunctional institution.” Congress returns on July 8.