What a year

What a year.  It is just over a day old and Alvin Rabushka peppers us with these very good "12 Questions for 2012." 

But I have to add #13.  In light of the fact that the best that Congress and the President can come up with is a two-month plan (the most recent budget agreement), why do those of us who have so many bright ideas for reform expect any of our proposals to be implemented?  I wish I knew.