[pierrem15]

If we stopped using the Federal purse to buy votes for Democrats, that would solve much of the deficit problem, as would a rationalization of the tax structure, and some modest changes to Social Security (like extending the retirement age).

After these changes are made, we should consider a "war" tax surcharge to fund what is necessary.

[entropy12]

You are exactly correct. It will take a very strong leader who is not afraid to make tough decisions. It is always to more difficult to take away stuff than give away stuff to people. Jeb, Mitt, etc are certainly not those tough leaders.