Because of these loopholes, taxpayers with similar incomes can pay vastly different amounts in taxes. This uneven treatment of taxpayers is fundamentally unfair and is at odds with the American value of equality before the law. According to a recent poll by Luntz Research, three-quarters of Americans believe it is common for taxpayers with similar incomes to pay vastly different amounts in taxes. Perhaps this is why more than two-thirds support a fundamental overhaul of the tax system. The American people are beleaguered by the highest tax burden in American history.
Taxes represent a larger share of the economy than ever before.
As a result, American families now pay more in taxes than they spend on food, clothing and shelter combined. According to the Tax Foundation, in 1955 the typical family paid about 27 percent of its income in total taxes. The Tax Foundation data reveal the key truth to why so many families feel as though two incomes are needed to do what one income accomplished a generation ago. While per capita income has doubled in the past generation, a majority of the higher income families have earned has gone to pay taxes. The fact is, the second earner today works not to support the family, but to support the government.