Good politics starts with empathy proceeds to analysis then sets out values and establishes the vision before getting to the nitty-gritty of policy solutions.
We all seek approval and our mother's seal is usually the most important. The nitty gritty is that we have to accept ourselves even if it is just to be ready for the next cut-down. Mom's blessing or not.
If you really believe that you're making a difference and that you can leave a legacy of better schools and jobs and safer streets why would you not spend the money? The objective is to improve the schools bring down crime build affordable housing clean the streets - not to have a fair fight.