Sequestration: A history
POSTED: 10:31 AM PST Feb 26, 2013
UPDATED: 05:36 AM PDT Apr 04, 2013
Take a look at the history of sequestration from its first use in the 1980s to today’s cuts.
Donna Carson/Reuters
This act was designed by President George H.W. Bush and moderate members of Congress from both major parties. It didn’t initially pass, partially because conservative Republicans rejected tax hikes included in the bill and liberal Democrats didn’t like other measures. Bush wouldn’t sign an extension of the existing budget, which put pressure on Congress to act quickly. The act ultimately passed and was signed into law.
