Does this really need to be explained on a liberal dem discussion site? yep.

[JoePhilly]

262. How is it playing chicken?

Let's say I have a mint condition Babe Ruth rookie card, its very valuable, and I know you want it.

So I say, "Ok, how much are you willing to give me for it?"

Am I playing chicken? Not at all.

When you tell me what you are willing to trade (a piece of information I'd like to have), I simply say "Sorry, not enough."

The President has been daring the GOP to state, in real terms, what they'd trade for SS cuts. He is under no obligation to accept their offer.

If they make an offer, you can beat them over the head with it.

Which is why the GOP never took the bait. They know that to make explicit statements on this would destroy them.

There was never any risk for SS or the President. He was under no obligation to accept any offer they'd have made.