Because the American political system involves constant campaigning, politicians are highly vulnerable. American elected officials face election frequently, must be concerned about election constantly, must be concerned with primary elections, and have relatively little party support. Regulation involves the direct government control of conduct. Administrative regulation involves efforts to influence conduct toward more appropriate channels. Licensing and government contracting may be examples of this form of regulation.
Regulatory taxation aims to discourage or eliminate an activity.
Examples include high taxes on alcohol and cigarettes.