Uber-Rich or Rank and File

In a recent op-editorial E.J. Dionne discussed the obligation of the elites to ensure the continued well-being of the larger society. In effect he was blaming the uber-rich for the battle against higher tax rates.

I’m not sure the very wealthy are the problem. President Obama opined, in his recent speech, that he wasn’t getting much mail from the people who would bear the brunt of higher taxes. Some of America's wealthiest have publicly stated their willingness to shoulder a higher tax burden.

The political problem has a different dynamic. The Republicans defend tax increases the way that the NRA reacts to gun control: defend each potential inroad at all costs. Is it possible that higher taxes have become so politically intertwined with big government that the two cannot be separated in the context of diminishing federal deficit spending? Presidents Reagan and Bush I supported higher taxes to deal with mounting deficits. In contrast Speaker Boehner has declared that discussion of tax increases are 'dead on arrival'.

While the uber-rich have certainly enjoyed their good fortune, I’m not sure they are the problem.

Defunding Socialism

Paul Ryan’s budget proposal is consistent with a vision of America where all Americans must ultimately fend for themselves. It reflects the notion, held by many, that America must not go the way of those West European societies which ascribe to the notion that citizens are collectively responsible -by paying significantly higher taxes - for ensuring an minimum standard of living for all, to include universal access to health care and quality old-age care.

Our nation has remained conflicted on these issues since Social Security was introduced by FDR. Democrats and moderate Republicans have been supportive of expanding social safety nets to include Medicare/Medicaid, Food Stamps, and support to low income families. The costs of these safety nets are on the rise, to the point where higher taxes are now required if they are to be sustained. Congressman Ryan has opened the door to a fundamental reappraisal of America’s commitment to one another. At present there is no one on the left picking up the gauntlet he has thrown down. If the Democratic leadership fails answer the challenge, than someone else will.