IMO, it would be better if the federal government disbanded a few agencies that lie outside of enumerated powers, and sharply curtailed all the "from the states, back to the sates" transfer payments. But I do agree that asking for 1% reductions is a relatively easy sell to almost everybody who votes.
You are correct Cboldt but now you are talking 2013 when we run the show. There are several departments that need to go. Energy, Education, EPA, a fair list.
The biggest part of the Mackpenny deal is no allowing endless 7.5% increases year after year.