[quote=afx114]No, my point is that everyone should pay an amount that is equal relative to their income. Having to pay $1,000 in taxes on an income of $10,000 could affect how much food gets put on the table or if the kids go to college or if the electric bill gets paid. Having to pay $1,000 in taxes on an income of $1,000,000 means a few less rounds of golf. Big difference.[/quote]
afx: Thanks for posting the WashPost tax graphic and not the “fake forwarded e-mail from zealots for bigotry” version. I was about to add it myself.
And I wholeheartedly agree–it’s supposed to be a “progressive” tax…topping out at x% at $250k and continuing the same percentage through $XX million in income is not “progressive.” And the argument that a higher tax bracket creates disincentive to work hard or innovate is a crock. I don’t think Soros or Buffet will stop going to the office if their tax bracket goes up–they will hardly notice (just their tax law firm will). The poor people trying to eke out a life will be hard hit and will notice it every day and it will influence every decision they make. Buy milk and bread or pay the electic bill or buy a bus pass (no cars at this tax bracket) to get to work…
Even Sir Charles is willing to give a little more, dig a little deeper, to “give back” to those who need it more:
BARKLEY: Well, I think that if you’re rich — I thank God I’ve been very successful — if you’re rich, you’re always going to be rich. If we pay more in taxes, I got no problem with that. If you’re making that kind of money, a couple hundred thousand dollars here or there are not going to change your life.
Let’s be realistic. I’ve been very fortunate and blessed. I did a great job of saving my money. But I got no problem if I’m making that type of money, paying more in taxes to be honest with you.
