" Voters want conflicting things. They want a lot of government spending, but they don’t want higher taxes. "
- Bruce Rauner

In simple terms, the statement suggests that voters often have contradictory desires when it comes to government policies. On one hand, they expect the government to provide a wide range of services and benefits through substantial spending. Yet, simultaneously, they are reluctant to accept higher taxes, which would be necessary to fund such extensive government activities.

The deeper meaning behind this observation touches on the complexities of democratic politics and voter behavior. It highlights the challenge faced by politicians who must navigate these conflicting expectations while trying to develop policies that satisfy their constituents. This contradiction reflects a broader societal tension between the desire for increased services and benefits from the state, which often requires higher tax rates or reduced spending elsewhere in the budget. Moreover, it reveals a gap between what citizens want and are willing to pay for, underscoring the difficulty of aligning public opinion with fiscal realities.

Bruce Rauner is an American businessman and politician who served as the 42nd Governor of Illinois from 2015 to 2021. He has been known for his conservative economic views and often comments on political and economic issues, including fiscal policy and government spending. His statement reflects his understanding of voter sentiment in the context of public finance debates and highlights the challenges policymakers face when trying to balance citizens' expectations with practical financial constraints.