Joseph Knollenberg: “when considering the tax burden imposed on the American people today, I am reminded of an observation that was made by…”

“when considering the tax burden imposed on the American people today, I am reminded of an observation that was made by Mark Twain: ``What's the difference between a taxidermist and a tax collector? The taxidermist takes only your skin.'' According to the nonpartisan Tax Foundation, the average American family is now paying more in taxes than they spend on food, clothing, and shelter combined. That, I believe, is an outrage. Working families should be allowed to take care of their basic needs before being required to finance the whims of politicians. Last year's tax cut did improve the situation, but more work needs to be done. If we exercise the courage and discipline to cut wasteful spending and make the Federal Government more efficient, the American people can have some of their money back. Mr. Speaker, let us do the right thing. Let us cut taxes again, this time for everybody, so working Americans can then keep more of their hard-earned money. They can spend their money better than we can. Let us allow them to do so.”