Phoenix tax on the poor

Boy everyone is so afraid of taxes, or at least the media makes it sound that way, but somehow we will be paying 2% tax on food, which is so unfair in my view.  It does not take a genius to know that poor people spend more as a total percentage of income on food.  Well it is clear that there are more poor people than the rich and there will be only so much that they will take.  Often you hear of the 80/20% rule, and if only half of the 80% vote there will be change to the system.  The tea baggers have big voices and Fox News makes it sound like no one wants changes like the public option or any other change that may help the nations poorer people, however, we will see how long the party of "no" will last. 

Anyway, not to rant to much, but it seems like it comes down to not being able to sacrifice at all.  I've never heard so much complaining about taxes.  I keep hearing raising taxes will not increase government income.  So where to they expect to get the money, by cutting programs that poorer people use (rich people don't need the parks, librarys, HUD, welfare, community centers, and so many others)...so why don't they just say it like it is and say they want to further tax the poor a let the rich get richer and poor get poorer.  They must hate America because if there is any receipe for a failed state it is the continued polarization of the classes.  The poor will eventually revolt.  Wouldn't it be easier for the rich to pay a little bit extra and even if the wheels of the economy have to stall a little, then let us pay the piper now instead of heading on the path that we seem to be afraid to jump off. 

As much as we want to stick our head in the sand this Financial Post article argues that increased taxes are the only way out of the hole we have dug.  One can not simply keep on deficit spending and never pay the piper. 

Maybe it will shock you but take a look at how we spend our budget and see if there are some things that may be better cut?  I'm in the Defence Industry, but I think 23% of our government spending could be better spent.  Are you thinking this graphic is incorrect?  It comes from a reputalbe source.  Furthermore, do you hear people complaining about the socialist programs like Social Security, medicare and VA programs?  Those programs are applauded and counted on by millions, so not sure why so many are so scared of a little government help in the areas that truly make us human.  I'm willing to pay a little extra out of my pay check to know that I do not need to worry about if I'm going to be able to have basic health care.  For that matter to know that my fellow citizen, no matter what cards he has been dealt in life will be able to not worry about basic health care. 

Anyway on the running front I did two separate runs today, 5.3 miles in 48:37, then another 3 mile run with some friends in 30:43.  Nice easy running before the marathon this weekend.  I don't have a real goal time, but plan to run strong and steady.  This is a rare race that gives awards 5 deep in the age divisions and last year the 35-39 year old men proved pretty competive with times of the first five ranging from 2:45 to 3:26.  I'd love to be in the top five, but I'm not going to kill myself.  If it is not too hilly I think a 3:26 will be just about right for my time.  Anyway, couple more days of slow running then off to the race.  I should top just over 80 miles this week.