The Third Interstate Highway System

And a few Words About Taxes

 

by Andrew Tobias

 

Be honest:

 

Is the reason you're not investing in stocks these days (a) the prospect of having to pay 15% capital gains tax?  Or (b) the fear of further losses?  (Well, or – c – that you don't have any money?)

 

Is the reason you don't start a new business that (a) if it made you a lot of money you'd have to pay a lot of taxes?  Or that (b) you can't get anyone to risk the funds you need to finance it?

 

Is the reason you don't hire new workers that (a) you're paying so much in taxes?  Or that (b) with business down so much, you don't need them?

 

Is the reason you're not spending money as freely as you used to that (a) your taxes are too high?  Or that (b) you're afraid of losing your job?  (Well, or – c – that you've lost half your net worth and suddenly realize you'd better get serious about saving for a decent retirement?)

 

Is the reason you're unemployed that (a) taxes are too high to make you want a job?  Or that (b) you've sent out 400 resumes and called every connection you have, but no one's hiring.

 

If the answer to all – or any – of these questions is (a), then Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal and his fellow Republicans may have a point in trashing the President's strategy and pushing tax cuts to get us out of this mess. 

 

Otherwise, can we please stop with that? 

 

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