A Dynamic Theory of Public Spending, Taxation and Debt

Marco Battaglini and Stephen Coate

No 1441, Discussion Papers from Northwestern University, Center for Mathematical Studies in Economics and Management Science

Abstract: This paper presents a dynamic political economy theory of public spending, taxation and debt. Policy choices are made by a legislature consisting of representatives elected by geographically-defined districts. The legislature can raise revenues via a distortionary income tax and by borrowing. These revenues can be used to finance a national public good and district-specific transfers (interpreted as pork-barrel spending). The value of the public good is stochastic, reflecting shocks such as wars or natural disasters. In equilibrium, policy-making cycles between two distinct regimes: “business-as-usual” in which legislators bargain over the allocation of pork, and “responsible-policy-making” in which policies maximize the collective good. Transitions between the two regimes are brought about by shocks in the value of the public good. In the long run, equilibrium tax rates are too high and too volatile, public good provision is too low, and debt levels are too high. In some environments, a balanced budget requirement can improve citizen welfare.

Date: 2007-02
New Economics Papers: this item is included in nep-pbe and nep-pub
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Related works:
Journal Article: A Dynamic Theory of Public Spending, Taxation, and Debt (2008)
Working Paper: A Dynamic Theory of Public Spending, Taxation and Debt (2007)
Working Paper: A Dynamic Theory of Public Spending, Taxation and Debt (2007)
Working Paper: A Dynamic Theory of Public Spending, Taxation and Debt (2006)
Working Paper: A Dynamic Theory of Public Spending, Taxation and Debt (2006)
Working Paper: A Dynamic Theory of Public Spending, Taxation and Debt (2006)
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