I think for a lot of people who cling to the GOP, the perception that they're for lower taxes for everyone and fiscal responsibility is a big issue.
I usually argue the point this way with someone for whom taxes are a big hot button, it works best if the person is moderately well-off:
You like nice things, right? That's what you want the money for. You want that luxury car, the nice house, the nice clothes, etc. Who doesn't? It's worth paying the extra money for a top notch item because you get better value for it, and it's something you can be proud of having.
How many hours a day do you drive that nice car? How many hours do you spend watching that nice TV? Listening to that top notch stereo? Wearing those expensive clothes? All that pales in comparison to the 24 hours a day, 7 days a week that you're a member of this society, a citizen of this nation. That society requires money, too. It's an expensive thing to own and maintain. It's something you use all the time, whether you're asleep or awake. You're using it because the police and firemen are on duty. You're using it because the military is on active duty, the schools are teaching people, the streets can be driven on, and opportunities are made for people to do business. You're using it every time a desperate person can find a chance or get some help, and not steal your stereo in order to get by. You're using it every time you don't have to support your elderly parents or grandparents.
I want a top quality civilization because I like having good stuff. It's worth paying the money to have.
My pal Jason Errett talks sense to Republicans:
