July 6, 2011
“Taxation Without Representation” was one of the rallying cries for the American colonists that brought about the birth of the United States of America. The colonists were angered that The Crown was leveling taxes upon them without any corresponding input on how the taxes were imposed or how the funds were being spent.
As we contemplate the birth of our country this week, and the actions that were the impetus for that birth; nearly half (46.4%) of American tax filers will pay no income taxes this year, according to the Huffington Post.
This fact could lead to the cry of “Representation Without Taxation” for the 53.6% of Americans that are doing not only the heavy lifting but, in fact, all of the lifting financially for the country.
This trend is not sustainable for the following reasons:
- In order for the country to provide essential services; a larger tax base is essential.
- Those that are paying all of the bills could eventually become so enraged they will be much less inclined to work hard, and put their wealth at risk to grow businesses that provide the necessary jobs for the country to be successful financially.
- It demeans people to treat them like children and provide all of their needs and wants. It is a form of servitude that assures that they will not be given clear access to the incentive to “break through” the dependency shackles so that they can become financially independent from government assistance.
As we think about the beginnings of the greatest country ever founded, let us consider how we can keep it that way. Question your Congressional delegates on how they expect to reverse the trend of half of the country paying nothing. If they cannot show actions to reverse this; pick someone else.
Think of all of the new things in which the country could invest; research, infrastructure, medical developments, etc., if everyone was supporting the country financially. Not to mention, how many businesses could be started or expanded if the tax burden was reduced on the 53.6% who are carrying all of the load now.
Think of the possibilities.
Thought of the week: Long time readers of this Blog will recall me writing about my Aunt Bea on the occasion of her 100th birthday. In that Blog I explained how amazing she was to be still able to support herself at the age of 100 and suggested that she should be the Treasurer of the United States with her proven record of financial planning (See Blog Here). I am saddened to report to you that Aunt Bea went to be with the Lord last Friday, at the age of 102. She will be missed.