“Normally, when politicians talk about 'cutting the budget,' they really mean reducing the amount of increase. Actual spending goes up while the politicians claim to have 'cut the budget.'”

American political advisor and television producer

Mark David McKinnon is an American political advisor, reform advocate, media columnist, and television producer. He is known for his role in Republican campaign strategy, his work in political commentary, and his involvement in television production. He served as chief media adviser on five successful presidential primary and general election campaigns. He also co-founded No Labels, a group focused on bipartisanship and practical political solutions. His career has included leadership roles at Public Strategies, Inc. and Maverick Media, along with work on The Circus: Inside the Greatest Political Show on Earth and consulting on The Newsroom and House of Cards. He also wrote regularly for The Daily Beast and The Daily Telegraph.