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A surplus is not "not doing anything". It's paying off public debt, therefore reducing future interest payment burden.

Not always

A surplus can be earmarked for new projects or spending more on current programs

Best use of surplus is tax rebates

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I’m reminded of Ron Swanson wanting to cut every taxpayer a 50 cent check, when they were debating what to do with a small surplus.

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That's true for governments that carry a debt, but many states have balanced budget amendments If one of those states were running a surplus, that money would not be paying for anything. It would just be taxation for taxation's sake.

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