Over the last several weeks many of the candidates for the
Republican Party have released their tax returns to be analyzed by the public
as they determine who will be the eventual nominee for the Presidential race.
As I read the stories, the real question that comes to mind is,
“Does it really matter?”
I think the only question that matters is, “Did the
candidate actually pay his taxes?”
I feel most people are seeking the answer to how did this
candidate earn his income, how much income did he have, and how much tax did he
pay. The answer is pretty simple: he
earned his income most likely from investments and speaking engagements and his
taxes were paid legally through the system allowed by the Internal Revenue
Service.
If you are a candidate for a political office, chances are
you have deep pockets, and have the money to spend on a campaign. Don’t miss understand that sentence. I ‘m not endorsing the current political
system, making a statement that if you are running you have some money to spend
or friends who will help you.
Do I think that it would be great to see a laborer, a small
town farmer, or your local teacher up for election? Yes that would be wonderful! But, do you think there would be a great
interest in seeing his/her tax returns?
When a millionaire, or even a billionaire, lowers there
actual tax rate to below 15% should they be ostracized, ridiculed, or put down
because they “didn’t pay their fair share?” The answer is simple. They are playing by the rules of the game,
the same rules you and I have to play, and they are winning the game.
They have income, financial responsibilities that include
taxes, and their job is to make sure their family reaps the most benefit from
their financial successes instead of the government. Why should they pay the IRS more than their
fair share just because they are up for election?
The media and the general public need to do a better job of
determining what is valuable when it comes to selecting information that needs
to be understood about a candidate. If
the only reason in sharing a tax return is to prove that the candidate is a
candidate follows the law then that is fine. But, the headlines tend to focus
on the income amount only.
I want to know more about fiscal policy, social issues, and
economical ideas to change the future for the United States, not how much
someone earned in 2011.
How do you feel? Do
you agree or disagree? Share your
thoughts in the comments section below!
Or feel free to stop by your local Liberty Tax office and
have a discussion with us. We would love
for you to come on in and talk taxes with us!
David Rocci
Disclaimer: Every effort has been taken to provide the most accurate and honest analysis of the tax information provided in this blog. Please use your discretion before making any decisions based on the information provided. This blog is not intended to be a substitute for seeking professional tax advice based on your individual needs.