That is the psychology behind populism.

Might as well say that my job is keeping my kids happy. That is why I give them candies instead of dinner.

The alternative ("we will tell you what is good for you") led to Canadian cities looking like a time machine to the 90s.

As a voter and not a member of the elite, I prefer having trains built and new cities expanded for our growing population, rather than incantations being offered to irrational secular gods ("the markets") and the constant shrinkage of beds in our healthcare system.

Parents aren't elected to serve their children.

Fair enough possible that the analogy halts.

But .. .

1. promise something with a simple message that is an oversimplification to get enogh voters. 2. Do it because you promised the voters. Even if it is a bad idea and will not lead to good results.

The abstract idea of a (democratic, elected) government is parental, it is supposed to run a country to better the lives of its citizens. Whether some of the people that gain power in government are even adults is debatable though.