That task has been made harder by the surge in tax revenues in the Clinton years. In the 1980s, it was assumed if the tax take exceeded 18 percent of GDP, a tax revolt would erupt. But revenues rose to 20.7 percent under Clinton without the faintest sign of a taxpayers' rebellion. With spending at 18 percent, that means there's a whopping surplus. The trick is to not let the government spend the surplus.
Recent history suggests that task is hopeless.
Nonetheless, Daniels, with the magic number of 15.6 percent in the back of his mind, is eager to try.