We’re about a week out from the deadline for increasing the debt ceiling, so lawmakers must act fast to avoid potential any potential disasters. There are reports that some kind of deal could be in the offing. House Republicans are reportedly considering a short-term debt ceiling increase, which would give the country another four or six weeks or so. Such an increase would also mean they still have some leverage in negotiations with President Obama and congressional Democrats.

National Journal: Two Sides Inching Toward a Short-Term Deal on Debt, Shutdown

 Politico: John Boehner’s Offer Puts President Obama on the Spot

The House Republican debt-ceiling plan is notable for its lack of provisions concerning Obamacare, but the President can’t claim victory on that front yet.

U.S. News and World Report: Republicans Pivot from Obamacare for Now, Not Forever

While the House Republicans have their plan, the Senate Republicans have another. In addition to raising the debt ceiling, their plan would fund the government for the rest of this new fiscal year, plus repeal the Obamacare tax on medical devices.

The Hill: Senate GOP Rallies Around Rival Plan on Debt Ceiling, Shutdown

As elected officials work to reopen the government and raise the debt ceiling, they should remember that doing so only treats the symptoms and not the disease.

Wall Street Journal: David Malpass: The Bigger Battle Behind the Shutdown