Friday, November 26, 2010 1:16:40 PM
I think what some people are forgetting is that most states have a state income tax, sales tax, and various other taxes.
As far as a VAT tax...lets go with the extreme. I currently pay 8.25% on pretty much everything I buy. If we were to enact a 25% VAT tax on top of that it would be 33.25% of taxes. So if I were to buy something that cost $1.50 it now would cost nearly $2.00.
If we were to add up all the taxes that people are wanting I would feel comfortable in saying that 60, 70, or 80% of income would be going to taxes...now seriously, is that fair? People in this country are already working for several months just to pay off their tax bill.
If we're going to go to tax levels that high then lets all just give all our money to the government and let them decide how much income isn`t too much (Inspired from when Obama said "At some people you`ve made enough money")...but wait, that would be communism
Friday, November 26, 2010 10:23:34 AM
--cont.-- Carbon tax: I don't need to explain this Other cuts to the federal government: Read closely there`s a clause mentioning "Office of Safe and Drug-Free Schools" which has a strong emotional appeal among the masses. Now the govt wants to cut it?
Friday, November 26, 2010 10:21:11 AM
@Baelzar, Gerry, Waffle
Granted your solutions could actually work, problem is: is it really practical?
If we'd just cut foreign aid it would cause a loss of face. When it comes government agencies they are difficult if not nigh impossible to get rid of.
Furthermore here are options I found too impractical on the list: Eliminate earmarks: Ironically, most constituencies like it when their senators/reps bring home the pork. This is pretty much how DART (Dallas Area Rapid Transit) was able to expand. Reduce Nuclear Arsenal and Space Spending: The former would actually weaken our hand in the world. The latter is actually worthwhile investment. Furthermore, defense absolutely loves to make serious $$$$$ off both of these. Reduce Navy and Air Force fleets: Similar reasons as above Cancel or delay some weapons programs: again Similar reasons Millionaire`s tax on income above $1 million: They`re rich they got serious influence Carbon tax: