I think both parties have tried, to various degrees at various times, to promote this principle. Clinton, as President, had line item veto for a period of time until the judicial branch whisked it away. I'm seeking responsibility and accountability in my reps. Right now, both parties promote red meat and re-election propaganda above principle and sound judgement. We can go circular in arguments for days....but if the government does not become more fiscally sound, I feel the inevitable is....inevitable. Greater societies than ours have fallen.