Government and the Pursuit of Happiness

Throughout history the government has been a tool of repression, never has man been freer then he is today. Yet, i see a world that is facing increasing government control. The governing system in place makes it beneficial for professional politicians to impose more laws, thereby increasing their scope of power. Many say that the politicians are just looking out for our best interest, after all look at all these issues that the government regulates that benefit society seat belts, trans fats, cigarettes, drugs, gambling, gun control, gay marriage, underage drinking, crossing the street with headphones on, and believe me the list goes on.
The problem that i have with all these regulations is that this country was established to allow me to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Not the tom's pursuit, or mikes, or the majorities, but my pursuit. And the more we allow our elected officials to help us pursue our own happiness the more they will, as it is is in their best interest. It is clearly obvious that not only is the government extending its reach into my personal freedom, but the government doesn't even do a good job in choosing what is important. It is ironic that the same government that bans online poker and marijuana, allows cigarettes (400,000 deaths per year) and coca cola (increases the chance of type two diabetes by 50%). Now by no means am i advocating to restrict personal choice in regards to tobacco or coke, that is just an illustration of our governments priorities.
The problem with allowing others to make moral and ethical choices for you is two fold. Firstly, the others are not informed as to all the circumstances surrounding my life and therefore their decision can be applicable to others but not myself. Secondly, this promotes laziness, apathy and intellectual sloth.