If you compare the constitutionality of the welfare state versus the constitutionality of modest arts funding, I think a better case can be made for arts funding. Neither would pass the Madison test, of course. But let's keep things in perspective, both in the intent relative to the Constitution, and in the size of the cost.
President Bush is playing with the cards dealt him.
If you compare the constitutionality of the welfare state versus the constitutionality of modest arts funding, I think a better case can be made for arts funding. I agree. However the operative word here is modest. NEA funds could be reduced by 75% and it still would not be modest.
Federal art is art chosen by committee. Art chosen by committee, is almost by defination bad art.