The $85 billion across-the-board federal spending cuts nobody supposedly wanted are now scheduled for Friday. Democrats and Republicans are braced to blame each other for whatever the consequences might be. How great is the threat to a struggling economy? What's the role of political theater? Also, Britain's top cardinal steps down and skips the conclave, a big audience but mixed reviews for last night's Oscars.
Banner image: Sequestration will impact both air traffic control and defense budgets. Photo by MCAS Cherry Point