WASHINGTON (November 13, 2012)--Some Democrats say Congress should let the steep tax hikes and spending cuts take effect automatically on Jan. 1.

Then, the say, Republicans would be forced to bargain with a weaker hand.

Republicans adamantly oppose increases in tax rates for everyone, including the rich, but nearly everyone's tax rate will rise if Congress and the White House don't enact an alternative plan by year's end.

Some Democrats say the scenario would force Republicans to yield more ground in order to roll back the new tax hikes on as many people as possible.

The White House says it wants a deal without going over the fiscal cliff.