Does breaking your word in politics matter?Some respected economic and political commentators have argued breaking promises in the budget is of no consequence; indeed, it was necessary and desirable.Their justifications include: all politicians do it; the tax changes are good policy; Albanese has a big majority and should use it to bring about reform.It's true most prime ministers have broken major promises: Bob Hawke (tax cuts), Paul Keating (tax cuts), John Howard (the "never, ever" GST, although he did take his plan to a subsequent election); Julia Gillard (no carbon tax); Tony Abbott (no cuts to various things).It's also true big majorities provide the opportunity to undertake reforms that otherwise wouldn't get done because they're too hard politically.But the counter case is strong The budget's broken promises help One Nation exploit public discontent and distrust, using its "Fire the Liar" slogan.We can't assume Albanese "lied" in the campaign