So the headlines today on credit rating for US debt read: S&P Upgrades U.S. Credit Outlook To 'Stable'
http://www.npr.org/....
But what Kossacks know is that Boehner cannot deliver votes on a debt ceiling deal, so it will take 20 sane and/or retiring GOPers plus the Dems to act in September or thereabouts on the debt ceiling.
My conclusion: S&P is raising its rating now so it has room to lower it later in the year when Congress screws up again.
The lower S&P rating was generated in 2011 when Congress booted the debt ceiling negotiations. For historical perspective, I highly recommend Hunter's piece from 2011: Republicans directly to blame for S&P credit downgrade.
http://www.dailykos.com/...
One other note: The stock market declined significantly during that period. Consult your 401(k) advisor on what you should do.