BIG GOVERNMENT IN PRACTICE is actually the best argument against big government in theory.

[Liberal comedian Jon] Stewart challenged top Obama adviser David Axelrod on whether or not the administration is capable of doing any of the big things it’s promised, an argument long made by conservatives and libertarians wary of government encroachment.

“It’s clear that this administration believes that government can have a stronger hand in regulating Wall Street, in regulating energy, in doing these things. But has government during this time proved itself competent?” Stewart asked.

Axelrod defended his colleagues and argued ... that the administration’s response to the H1N1 flu is proof that it is up to the task of big government.

Oh?