I believe in limited government and a balanced budget.  We can only maintain our freedom and strength when we live within our means.  This is as true for governments as it is for individuals and corporations.  Although I recognize the proper use of debt, we must also acknowledge the destructive powers of interest when it is working against us and the consequences that are brought upon our country by too much debt.  This means that, as a nation, we must curtail our expenses and spend less.  The common practice of borrowing from the public, from other nations and from other government departments (example: 
Social Security) in order to increase government programs is foolish and short-sighted and only increases our national debt.  Our national debt must be reduced.  

I am in favor of cutting government programs.  It is misguided for the Federal Government to extract funds (or take property) from one portion of the population simply to make life easier or more comfortable for another portion.  The right to redistribute wealth or property does not belong to the government.  This choice rests with the individual.  We should expect less in the way of government programs and government assistance.  Self-reliance is the principle we all need to embrace.

Government programs that extend beyond the central purpose of protecting life, property and individual freedom should be limited at best and many should be entirely eliminated from the control of the Federal Government and be returned to the purview of States and individuals. 

Decisions that affect the general well being of the individual should always be reduced to the lowest level possible; first, the individual, then the family or community, then the State and lastly the Federal Government.