I think John Boehner struck a wise deal with the Democrats last night. First, the $38.5 billion in cuts is not just a symbol but does begin the process of reducing government. Since only 5 months remain of the fiscal year, it is the equivalent of the $100 billion that was promised last fall to the tea party. More important is the coming debate about the Paul Ryan budget for 2012 and it is time to begin that debate.
The funding of Planned Parenthood was always a hostage for the Republicans to use in negotiations, just as the President used the military as his hostage. The agreement establishes a bill that will have to be voted on by the Senate along with a companion agreement to defund Obamacare. Both of these votes are going to be painful for the 23 Democratic Senators who must stand for re-election next year.
It was a reasonable compromise and now it is time to move on to the Ryan budget.