Skip to content

Appropriate Quote by Ronald Reagan

“Deficits, as I've often said, aren't caused by too little taxing, they're caused by too much spending. Presidents can't appropriate a dollar of tax payers money, only Congressmen can; and Congress is susceptible to all sorts of influences that have nothing to do with good government.” quote by Ronald Reagan
Download Open image
“Deficits, as I've often said, aren't caused by too little taxing, they're caused by too much spending. Presidents can't appropriate a dollar of tax payers money, only Congressmen can; and Congress is susceptible to all sorts of influences that have nothing to do with good government.”

Ronald Reagan

About This Quote

Source Speech: Economic Policy Address (1981) – taxation and spending

He argues deficits stem from excessive government spending rather than insufficient taxes, highlighting congressional control over spending.

In simple terms: Deficits are caused by too much spending, not low taxes.

Key Takeaway

Limit government spending to reduce deficits.

Themes

economics public policy budgeting

Mood

critical informative

Type

political economic

When to use this quote

  • legislative budgeting
  • public finance
  • budget planning
  • tax reform

Key Concepts

fiscal responsibility taxation theory

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can citizens influence congressional spending decisions?
  • What checks can balance fiscal policy?
A Different Perspective

Political pressures can still drive high spending despite constraints.

3.3 out of 5 (4 ratings)

More by Ronald Reagan

Explore all 1,244 Ronald Reagan quotes

More Appropriate quotes

Browse all 1,130 Appropriate quotes