A reason why federal debt is hard to reduce.

Whether Republican, or Democrat, politicians get elected by promising things to the voters. Delivering bad news, such as big cuts to things like veterans benefits, Medicare or disaster relief doesn't play well for getting reelected. Promising tax cuts is also popular. Even the recent bill increasing Social Security benefits to former federal workers who opted for a lower amount due to their already existing pension plans did pass the Republican dominated House. It may not pass the Senate, however. Delivering unpolular news about tax hikes or real budget cuts is not a formula for getting relected.