Everyone’s doing their part

Not only have the very wealthy profited handsomely from the Great Recession, but the vast and growing disparity of wealth between them and the rest of the country is like a cancer that threatens our body politic.

President Obama’s opening bid to raise taxes and increase stimulus spending has hit a brick wall. Republicans in Congress agree that taxes must rise, but they are refusing to increase rates on the wealthy. Unless both sides come to an agreement, taxes will go up for everyone anyway, rich or poor.

And if doctor reimbursements from Medicare are trimmed as a result of stepping off the “fiscal cliff,” experts fear many patients will be turned away from care and medical services.

Are Republicans holding the middle class “hostage,” as Obama claims, or are Democrats overreaching? Where do you see a comprommise?

Tell us what you think below.

Unless lawmakers agree to a deal by the end of the year, taxes will go up for everyone, rich or poor. The White House says it would cost a typical family about $2,200 next year.