Unfortunately, that sentiment suggests that the general populace is always prepared to do the right thing, even if it is painful.  Experience has shown they will not.  When is the last time people voted to increase taxes on themselves? 

Sometimes governments need to make painful and difficult decisions on behalf of the people who elected them.  Failing to make such decisions that are for the good of all is governing toward the middle, governing for re-election.  Governing for progress, governing for prosperity that benefits all . . . that is much more difficult and sometimes downright unpopular.