Human nature.

The trick is to run things so most folks don't actually need handouts (tough this year with covid). If most people are concerned with the hard-earned fruits of their labor being squandered by government, then government might be compelled to behave in a fiscally prudent manner. I think that's the trick to keep/wean folks off largesse from the treasury.


Even though the fed won't, at least some states have balanced budget requirements (including some that might surprise you, such as CA).

In fairness, our republic has thrived and lasted a lot longer than Lord Tytler would have predicted. He did point out a very valid weakness though, definitely worth bearing in mind.