In the summer of 2011, it was proven just how harmful failing to raise the debt ceiling can be. Besides creating economic uncertainty at home and abroad, the brinkmanship displayed in this fight resulted in a downgrading of the USA's credit rating for the first time in our history.
These facts, combined with our consistently log-jammed Congress, necessitate decisive executive action. Since many in the legislative branch have demonstrated that politics are more important to them than our well-being, President Obama should act without them.
Ordering the treasury to mint a trillion-dollar coin may sound silly, but it is a more serious solution than waiting for Congress to act. No matter the specifics, President Obama should raise or eliminate the debt ceiling without waiting for Congress.