I admit, I have paid little attention to the details of this stupidly-named "Fiscal Cliff" thing. So my comments are probably laced with ignorance. But they are serious.

First, I hate the name. I can't see anything that will cause a CLIFF to be fallen off of. Drama to the max. For what purpose?

Second, it seems the cast of characters is confused here. The "Cliff" will raise taxes automatically. Right??? Well, aren't the Democrats always wanting that so they can increase spending? If so, why are they aghast that the "Cliff" is about to occur?? Shouldn't they be out happy-singing "Look what great things are about to happen"????? I mean, we ain't gonna solve sixteen TRILLION in debt without taxes rising, are we? So what's the problem?

Third, isn't it the Democrats, but actually everyone, that says that SS is a mess, and going broke? If so, why did Obama lower the SS withholding tax rate, and why would he now want to keep that lower rate? Isn't one of the proposed 'fixes' to raise the rate even higher?

Fourth, why did Obama appoint Simpson and Bowles only to ignore them 100%?

What am I missing, other than my mind?