At what government level has growth been consistent since 1970?

The state and local level has experienced consistent growth since 1970 due to a variety of factors, including demographic changes, increased demand for public services, and the expansion of local programs and initiatives. This growth can be attributed to the rising populations in many states and municipalities, leading to an increased need for infrastructure, education, healthcare, and public safety services.

Local governments, in particular, are often the first point of contact for citizens and are tasked with addressing specific community needs, which has driven their expansion. Furthermore, state governments have taken on more responsibilities over time, which has contributed to their growth in expenditures and staffing.

In contrast, federal growth has seen fluctuations due to economic cycles, policy changes, and shifts in priorities, while the international level does not typically reflect growth in the same way, as it is not a level of government per se, and encompasses a variety of organizations and agreements rather than a consistent governing body with a growth pattern akin to state and local governments. Additionally, county level growth can vary significantly based on local conditions and may not consistently reflect the growth seen at the broader state and local levels.