What we could have funded instead of war or tax cuts (according to Democrats)

This sounds nice on paper, but Democrats find a way to screw stuff up just as much as Republicans. The surplus under Clinton that Democrats like to tout so much had more to do with being in a huge bull market than any specific policy that Clinton signed (though not increasing spending was certainly helpful).

Yes, wasting money on wars under Bush and Obama hurt us pretty bad, and Trump's tax cuts aren't doing us any favors. The real problem is that Congress doesn't pass a balanced budget. Those wars and cuts wouldn't be a problem if we funded them properly, raising revenue as necessary.

I personally don't think either party is serious about balancing the budget, they just like to sling mud at each other so people vote them in for a second term because they're afraid of what the other side might do.

I don't vote for parties, I vote for individuals. I need to believe that the individual I support with my vote is serious about making a balanced budget and fighting for the things I want. If I can't trust any of the candidates, I don't cast a vote.