Tax Reform - Rx

Although the Republicans would rather you not think about what they do, and pay attention instead to what they say, what they do with taxes is make it possible for people to avoid contributing to the community from which they derive their wealth.

Herein there be dragons, but I think its worth pursuing. The object is to create a tax code that occupies one page of double spaced text, or less.

1. All tangible and intangible assets received by a person counts as income.

2. Poverty level living expenses are deducted from income. Lets say 12,000 per year, indexed to the cost of living.

3. Savings placed in a federally defined plan is deducted from income. this plan is controlled by the individual and the funds may be invested as they see fit.

4. Money withdrawn from this federally defined plan is income.

5. Money invested in the individual's education or the education of dependents is deducted from income.

6. Taxes are paid on the balance, at a multi-tiered progressive rate, determined by congress.

Gonzo Politics

So Gonzales will be confirmed by the Senate. A foregone conclusion.

The question is by what margin will he be opposed by the Democrats? Certainly they will vote no by a much wider margin than they did with Condolezza Rice.

The Doctor