"For many of those who had historically supported welfare programs in the broadest sense, it was perfectly reasonable to enact legislation in which poor people were the objects of efforts to assist them"

In this quote, Barney Frank discuss the point of view widely held by some people and policymakers who support well-being programs: the idea that legislation focused on helping the bad is both sensible and necessary. The quote highlights a longstanding belief in social responsibility and the function of federal government intervention in enhancing the lives of disadvantaged residents.

The phrase "traditionally supported well-being programs in the broadest sense" acknowledges a continuum of advocacy and policymaking efforts that have sought to deal with hardship and socioeconomic inequality through various well-being efforts. Advocates of such programs have normally believed in supplying a safeguard for those who are financially disenfranchised, seeing it as a moral necessary within a society that values equality and justice.

By saying "it was completely affordable to enact legislation", Frank suggests that for those with a foundational belief in social well-being systems, the development and execution of laws to assist the poor are logical and warranted actions. It reflects a practical method to governance, where aid to the impoverished is seen as a needed response to systemic social issues, such as unemployment, absence of access to education, healthcare injustices, and financial disparity.

The term "things of efforts to help them" may suggest a certain paternalistic attitude fundamental in some well-being programs, where the bad are seen not as active individuals in their ascent from hardship however rather as passive recipients of help. This shows a possible criticism that while well-intentioned, some welfare legislation may stop working to empower individuals, instead treating them as mere subjects of bureaucratic programs without acknowledging their company or possible contributions to society.

Overall, Frank's quote records the intricacy of well-being programs, highlighting the balance in between a society's responsibility to look after its members and the significance of empowering people. It welcomes reflection on how welfare programs are developed and the underlying assumptions directing their execution.