The debt debates and the Republican party brand

Story from The Takeaway. Listen to audio above for full report.

House Speaker John Boehner toughened his stance yesterday with conservatives who oppose his budget proposal. “I didn’t put my neck on the line and go toe to toe with Obama to not have an army behind me,” he reportedly told House Republicans.

The recent debt ceiling debate between Democrats and Republicans has invited dissident voices within the GOP, fracturing the party’s image of solidarity. House Republican leaders delayed a vote on their plan to raise the debt ceiling Monday night after opposition from dissenting conservatives in the party. Last night House Speaker John Boehner was reportedly able to convince a growing number of House members to get behind the plan — but only reluctantly.

Meanwhile, the Treasury Department will begin deciding which bills will be paid and unpaid if Congress can’t reach an agreement.

Related stories:
> As Debt Deadline Looms, States Could Be Biggest Loser of Them All
> How Will the Debt Ceiling Affect Our Personal Finances?

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“The Takeaway” is a national morning news program, delivering the news and analysis you need to catch up, start your day, and prepare for what’s ahead. The show is a co-production of WNYC and PRI, in editorial collaboration with the BBC, The New York Times Radio, and WGBH.