That arguement has been made by liberals many times. They speak of “donor states” and “recipient states” and brag that blue states are subsidizing red states. The devil, of course, is in the details.
First of all, consider two of the federal government’s biggest expeditures: social security and medicare. Those who receive these benefits are not evenly distributed around the country but are concentrated in places such as Florida, Texas and Arizona. These senior citizens often retired to warmer and cheaper climates from blue states such as Pennsylvania and New Jersey. It is not logical to count these expenditures against a donor/recipient tally.
Second, consider transportation dollars. It is true that Washington is spending more money on new roads in growing cities such as Phoenix, Charlotte and Jacksonville. This work comes only after decades of heavy concentration on highway construction in blue states. These red states are actually finally getting their fair share.
Third, military installations are more likely to be found in red states. This has occurred for a number of reasons including favorable attitudes towards the armed forces and the fact that many of these bases were established in cheap open areas. The development grew up around them (Cocoa Beach). Only a leftist who thinks of the military as a government entitlement rather than the institution that defends us would count defense spending in a donor/recipeint tally.
Fourth, red states have more kids. Education spending goes where the kids are. If blue states want a bigger share, then stop having abortions.
OK, California, New Jersey, and Connecticut all donate recipients to the states you cite because their housing costs are so high.
It is not logical to count these expenditures against a donor/recipient tally.
Sure it is, because salaries in those blue states are so high that housing costs go with them. That means income tax revenues are high too.
This work comes only after decades of heavy concentration on highway construction in blue states.
Seen the roads in California? They're among the worst, and that's without freezing weather. Highway construction here is almost nil.
Third, military installations are more likely to be found in red states.
Ever heard of the NAVY? Guess where the military electronics development contracts go. I don't buy it.
Fourth, red states have more kids. Education spending goes where the kids are. If blue states want a bigger share, then stop having abortions.
Oh we have PLENTY of anchor babies from illegals instead. Want em?