The whole debt ceiling nonsense is not a negotiation, it’s more like an auction. Our freedom and our money is being auctioned off to the highest bidder.

And, it’s a damned good thing the powers that be are not “negotiating” with the American public, because it would go a bit more like this:

Congress:”Here’s our debt ceiling proposal. Say yes.”
me: “Oh, I’m sorry, you don’t understand the rules of negotiation. You propose one thing, I propose another. Then we try to meet in the middle, somewhere”

Congress:” So what do you propose?”
me:”I’m glad you asked. First, all the embedded burocrats will have their assets confiscated and used to pay down the deficit, and they will work for free from now on. The same goes for all members of the house and senate, and all their employees, but they will only do so until they are voted out, but if re-elected they will continue to serve free. Anyone who dislikes these terms will be able to opt out. Opting out involves looping a guitar string around their neck, and jumping off a railroad bridge. Voting for increased spending anytime without a 95% referendum vote from their constituency will result in public flogging, and execution of the officials favorite uncle. That’s our proposal, now where’s your counter proposal?”

Negotiation means starting from your OPTIMAL position, and giving a little ground. it does NOT mean starting six inches from your OPPONENT’s position and then giving ground, you fuckmonkeys.