Lots of great discussion here. I am sure I am not alone being willing to pay taxes for the programs I like, and complain about paying for those I don't.
Accountability is the issue to me as well. Mr. E's initiatives, designed to shake up the legislature, create only a hand wringing reactionary effect, instead of proactivity. This "woe is me" attitude crosses all party lines. The initative process in this, my native state, has in the last 5 years lead to unfunded spending mandates and tax cuts without alternatives.
A common sentiment here is to "vote the *******s out". I don't disagree, but who among us here is going to step up and be voted in? Collectively we complain, and collectively decline to offer the ultimate answer-seek office and make changes ourselves.