We Progressives have been saying the same thing as you, Dick.  I don't know any progressive that feels any differently than you wrote in your first paragraph.  I too want to make sure my taxes don't increase to support any type of government expansion.  Still don't know what's wrong with progressive tax rates and ensuring the wealthy pay taxes at a level commiserate to what we in the middle class pay.  They don't, many not paying taxes at all.  

It's just that we recognize WE (you, me, and the rest of the 99%) are ALL suffering.  Difference is you are blaming the poor for being poor, not recognizing that many had lives just like you that were lost due to no fault of their own.  They got gamed by a system they don't understand, mental illness, etc.  You're getting gamed too by the system.  What's your excuse?  Who you blaming?