Are we just countries standing alone: Tennesee, New Jersey, New York, Texas ect. or are we United?

When people refer to smaller government what exactly do they mean? No Federal interference, input, regulations does that also mean no Federal funding. Can all the states stand alone without each others assistance?

I personally don’t want bigger or smaller government I Want BETTER government. Standing by the constituion and bill of rights to me means providing for the welfare of all citizens. This includes Health, education, saftey in food and drugs, eldercare, corporate regulations for the protection of the individual and defense. All that I mention is actually part of defense not just the military.

Now I know people keep saying our education system is such a mess it is a disgrace. This is true , however it is not the fault of “big” federal government. The decisions on education are made at the local level, funding comes from local, county, state and federal government. It is only wise to expect better results and to need a way of determining how this funding is spent. To ask for Federal funding without oversight is down right dum.