The tax structure should not favor any interest or class above another. The principle of neutrality is straightforward. It also can help depersonalize and depolarize the debate if we focus on first principles rather than sound bites. These four principles will help ensure a just system is implemented and will lead to a more informed debate about what ought to be done and why. Any tax, but particularly a new tax or a change to the tax structure, should flow from these four principles: Neutrality, Transparency, Simplicity, Predictability. Like any change, blowback can be mitigated by having a fair and transparent system in place that all are made aware of. It’s easier to just spend and let someone else figure out how to pay. A change in taxes could alter an elected official’s base of support, and therefore, changing the tax structure is not worth the political risk. Changes to the tax structure are popular themes during elections and when trying to gain media attention, but they lose momentum when it comes time to govern. Regardless of where one stands on the issue, it does open the opportunity for discussion regarding taxation. Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio Cortez’s dress worn to the Met Gala that read “Tax the Rich” provoked both outrage and support.
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