Long political discussion yesterday with a couple of libertarian-leaning wedding-goers, and I think I hit upon something that would probably never pass, but it would confound Republicans and move voters our way.
First, the short version of the problem that faces us:
There are literally trillions of dollars that investors and businesses are sitting on. They're not jumping into this economy. Dems would say that we need stimulus and investment to get the ball rolling and taxing the rich would accomplish that. Tea Party nuts say the government is crowding out investment with threats of tax increases and regulations.
First, some perspective on the two points of view:
The basic Democratic point of view: the Rich don't contribute their fair share. Taxes stink but they're a necessary part of life if you want robust social programs that save and enrich millions of lives. The government provides a lot of services more efficiently than private industry ever could.
The basic "Tea" Republican point of view: the Rich pay MORE than their fair share. Taxes are an unnecessary burden because we spend money unwisely on things we don't need. The government crowds out private industry, which could do all of the things government does more efficiently.
And now, my two-part proposal:
1. Your tax rate increases or decreases, depending upon your investment in the economy. If you sit on money and do nothing, your tax rate escalates.
If you expand your business in the US, hire new employees domestically, purchase new equipment and utilize it here, your tax rate would be lowered, even below where it currently is.
2. If you feel that you can create a better mousetrap, DO IT. If you can create a competitor for an existing government service and PROVE that it works better than what exists, then that's fantastic...more power to you.
Bottom line: we aren't challenging Republicans head-on with their fanciful claims that less taxes would = more jobs. And our current course isn't working....Obama is letting the Republicans define the agenda and we're watering down every progressive approach we've taken.
So, re-build America, private-sector. If you fail to, we can do it for you.