"The American people think the government in Washington is too big. That it spends too much. And - and that it's totally out of control. They want something done about it"

In the quote by John Boehner, a former Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, there is an encapsulation of a common belief amongst a significant portion of the American people concerning the federal government. This sentiment can be broken down into three primary perceptions: the size of the government, its spending habits, and its total control over affairs.

To start with, when Boehner discusses that "the federal government in Washington is too huge", he is acknowledging a belief that the federal government has actually expanded beyond what lots of Americans consider required or proper. This expansion often describes the increasing reach and impact of government agencies and bureaus that some think should be limited to protect private freedoms and states' rights. The idea of a "huge" federal government is often criticized by those who advocate for smaller government, arguing that it leads to ineffectiveness and bureaucracy that can suppress innovation and individual liberties.

Secondly, the expression "it spends too much" alludes to concerns over the federal spending plan and nationwide debt. Many Americans fret that the federal government's level of expenditure is unsustainable, especially with substantial expenses on social programs, military efforts, and other federal jobs. Critics argue that excessive spending can cause greater taxes and economic instability, putting a concern on future generations.

Finally, Boehner's assertion that the federal government is "absolutely out of control" suggests a perception of a lack of responsibility and transparency within federal operations. This can be translated as a mistrust in federal government officials and a belief that their actions do not always reflect the will or advantage of the constituents they serve. Individuals with this perspective typically require reforms to increase checks and balances, accountability steps, and possibly, a rollback of particular policies.

Overall, Boehner's quote records a call for governmental reform and a realignment of federal priorities towards more effective and minimal governance, showing prevalent public opinion that desires more responsible and streamlined operation and management of the federal government.