Amount Quote by Milton Friedman
“I am in favor of cutting taxes under any circumstances and for any excuse, for any reason, whenever it's possible. ... because I believe the big problem is not taxes, the big problem is spending.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Public Policy Remarks, 1970s, United States
He argues that tax cuts are less problematic than government spending, suggesting fiscal restraint should focus on reducing expenditures rather than revenue.
In simple terms: Tax cuts are easy; spending is the real issue.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize cutting spending over cutting taxes.
Themes
economics
public policy
fiscal responsibility
Mood
critical
analytical
Type
political
economic
When to use this quote
- budget planning
- legislative debates
- tax reform
- public finance
Key Concepts
taxation
government spending
budget deficits
Questions to Reflect On
- How can governments balance essential services while cutting spending?
- What are the long‑term effects of persistent high spending?
A Different Perspective
Reducing spending can be politically difficult and may affect essential services.
