The argument about fiscal austerity has been drilled into all of us. The U.S Marines couldn't have done a better job.
It's our new way of life.
If you are a Republican elected official, there's a second part to the "cutting back" rule of thumb these days: Don't dare believe in compromise. Don't dare reach across the aisle. Do so at your own peril.
Attempts at bipartisanship are the new blood sport.