Thursday, September 23, 2010

Government Believes It Has A Right To The Wealthy’s Income

During his recent speech in Ohio, President Obama made it clear his administration will soon raise taxes on those in the top marginal income tax bracket. While not surprising given the administration’s penchant for redistribution, the manner in which President Obama made his declaration brings cause for concern: “This isn’t to punish folks who are better off – it’s because we can’t afford the $700 billion price tag.” Not only will such tax-the-rich policy hamper U.S. economic growth, principally among small businesses, but the statement itself is a clear indictment of the president’s broader philosophical belief: Earned income is the Government’s, not the Peoples’.

Practically, the looming tax increase will hamper the already-struggling recovery. The wealthiest earners spend the most, especially on the margins. Their spending helps fuel demand, drive profits, and thus create jobs. This group also invests more, providing capital to companies seeking cash and driving long-term growth. But the debate over trickle-down economics has been well documented.


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