"But no one has yet succeeded in reducing the size or scope of the federal government"

This quote by James Q. Wilson recommends that in spite of many attempts, no one has actually been able to effectively reduce the size or scope of the federal government. This suggests that the federal government is a powerful and prominent entity that is hard to manage or limit. It likewise suggests that the federal government has a big presence in the lives of residents, and that it is hard to decrease its influence. This quote could be interpreted as an alerting to those who want to restrict the power of the federal government, as it indicates that it is a difficult task to achieve. It could also be interpreted as a statement of affection for the federal government, as it suggests that it is a powerful and prominent entity that is tough to manage.