World War II was the last government program that really worked.

The quote by George Will suggests that World War II was the last significant government program in the United States that was widely regarded as successful. Will is commenting on the perception that, unlike many other government initiatives, the mobilization and efforts surrounding World War II were effective in achieving their goals. The quote implies that despite the criticisms often levied against government programs, World War II’s impact and outcome were seen as a clear example of a well-executed and necessary government intervention.

Will's statement reflects a critique of the efficiency and effectiveness of government programs in later years, implying that many modern government initiatives have not lived up to the success and scale of the World War II effort. This reference to the war highlights the unified national effort, the rapid industrial mobilization, and the success of governmental action in overcoming major challenges. In contrast to more recent programs, where government intervention often faces criticism for waste and inefficiency, World War II stands out as a rare instance of coordinated national success.

The origin of this quote lies in George Will's conservative perspective on the role of government in society. As a political commentator, Will has often critiqued the expansion of government programs, arguing that many such efforts fail to deliver results. By contrasting the success of World War II with the perceived failure of more recent government projects, Will underscores his belief in limited government and the dangers of excessive intervention in the economy and society.

In a broader context, Will’s statement speaks to the broader debate about the role of government in managing large-scale projects. While World War II required immense government coordination and resources, its successful outcome is often viewed as a benchmark for what is possible when a government is able to work with efficiency and focus. However, the quote suggests that subsequent government programs may struggle to replicate such success, especially when not driven by a clear and urgent national need.