Political Quotes

“I rise today to recognize tax freedom day; a day marking the people's emancipation from government taxation; a day after which the American people begin working for themselves and their families instead of for the Government; a day which continues to recede further and further every year. This year, Mr. President, America's tax freedom day arrives on May 7. In my own State of Michigan it arrives even later--on May 9. Michigan, thanks to its friendly atmosphere for economic growth and investment, is relatively affluent. Thus Michigan pays a significantly higher portion of its income in Federal taxes than do other States. We are 13th in the Nation in total taxes paid, again in large measure because the Federal Government takes more from our citizens' paychecks than from those of citizens of other States. But let us look at the overall tax picture. As tax freedom day approaches, Mr. President, I believe it is appropriate for us to ask ourselves how much of their time, what proportion of their paychecks the American people feel it is fair for them to be asked to pay to the government. When I first saw the results of the Roper Poll on this subject I was surprised to note that Americans of all stripes--whatever their race, sex, income level, or political persuasion--felt it was fair for them to pay a full 25 percent or one quarter of their income taxes. More astounding, however, is the proportion they actually must pay in taxes--over 38 percent.”