Many candidates in the 2010 election, including those embraced by the Tea Party movement, are pushing for less government spendingand a reduction in the federal budget deficit.
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Uncle Sam taking money out of your wallet
But that's easier said than done.
It's politically difficult to cut entitlement programs, especially Social Security and Medicare. And, as the Baby Boomer generation ages, the federal government's liability from these programs will grow significantly.
With the recent increase of American troops in the Afghanistan war and heightened focus on the threat of terrorism caused by the discovery of bombs on cargo planes bound for the US, it may also be tough for politicians to cut the defense budget.
Here's the bottom line: For elected officials to deliver on their promises to shrink government, they will have to make potentially painful budget cuts. If given a limited choice, where would you wield the axe? Take our poll and tell us your opinion.
We'll share the results during CNBC's "Decision 2010: Your Money, Your Vote"coverage Tuesday evening, beginning at 7pm ET.