The genius of Liberal economics:

Step one, get elected on a platform promising a $10 billion stimulus budget. 

Step two, project a massive increase to that number, double or worse. Absorb the initial outrage, and prepare for the coup de grace:

Step three, deliver on an actual budget deficit of $12 billion, and declare that thanks to the miracle of Liberal economics, all is well.

And a grateful Liberal public rejoices.

"Dear Sir: I am pleased to inform you that our original diagnosis of having to amputate both of your arms was incorrect. We now feel that we need only cut off your right arm plus all of the fingers on your left hand. No need to thank us, it's all in a day's work"