Hello Again, Beakybird:

Let's consider another angle. Put a percentage on all income and ignore the national sales tax. Just don't try to sell me the idea that the poor guy should pay a different percentage. Why would we want to deprive him/her the privilege of being a first class citizen? When I get rich I will have achieved the American Dream. (It's not about to happen being a songwriter... LOL!)

I agree that we should look at what other countries are doing. Some of them are doing quite well at our expense. Some are doing well at the expense of their people. Can you give me an example of a country where taxes are less (including VAT and all that other stuff disguised as fees) 'cause I agree with you. If there is a better model, we should seriously look at it. I don't subscribe to the theory that everthing was invented in America.

I can tell you that I've travelled extensively and I'm always grateful to return home to the States. We are a resourceful people and we can do better... but there are so many people that would give an arm or leg to live here.

Thanks for this interesting post.

Dave