That is, without a hint of irony, exactly what the Tories have done in the UK and what the Republicans will do to the U.S.: They create such budget deficits during their own terms in office and enter into long-term commitments that benefit the super-rich that subsequent progressive governments have their hands tied when it comes to fiscal policy. Since these governments feel bound by rules out of fear of the conservative mob, they can effectively be rendered incapable of acting, thereby directly laying the groundwork for the next election victories.