I can't see why the republicans would go after the 401(k) either. I'm guessing that those middle class suburbanites who vote republican are the same ones who utilize the plan. 

Interesting read, and I generally agree.  Paying or collecting taxes now versus paying or collecting them in the future. If you assume tax rates will stay the same, then it's a matter of when you want to take the hit. However, there is reason to believe that tax rates will have to rise in the future. 

I have been maxing out the Roth since it was introduced and will continue to even if the limits are raised a lot. I'm working on lowering my tax rate in retirement and the Roth is part of that. Our HSA plan is also a part of that too.  Check out the book, The Power of Zero by David McKnight. If I were advising anyone right now, I would say that your HSA is the first account to max out, the Roth is second, and then if you can, your 401(k).