In response to your first point, I'd counter that Gen X through Gen Z are generally in favor of both decreasing defense spending and taxing the snot out of the ultra-wealthy - the only reason we haven't done it yet is because the silent generation has only just passed the baton to the baby boomers, who are now running the show.
Your second point is a very good one, and has given me something to think about. Appreciate the detailed response.
Seriously think about that point with discretionary spending though. Even if Gen Zers took 100% control tomorrow and eliminated every penny of US spending that law makers are allowed to eliminate, we would still run a deficit. That's a game changer in my mind.
And because the entitlement pay as you gos are inflation adjusted you can't just inflate that problem away.
Your second point is a very good one, and has given me something to think about. Appreciate the detailed response.