But neither Democrats nor Republicans can resist using the tax code as an instrument of social policy.

ECONOMIST: Republican fiscal policies

This is despite the fact that McDonnell had pledged to resist any and all tax increases in his 2009 campaign.

CNN: Will Bob McDonnell be a presidential contender?

Republicans will not want to see the Bush tax cuts expire and resist further increases in the federal debt ceiling until a budget and tax agreement has been hammered out.

FORBES: Cain's 9-9-9 Plan and Perry's Flat Tax Likely to Assure Expiration of Bush Tax Cuts and Major Battle over the Debt Ceiling

Across the Capitol, Senate Democrats had already announced their intention to approve a budget, although they have made it clear they will insist on additional tax revenue that Republicans are sure to resist.

NPR: Debt Crisis Averted _ But Spring Fight Still Ahead