Serious reform should start with slashing spending. Targets aren't hard to come by. And spending cuts would allow big tax cuts. They should be taxed only enough to fund genuinely vital programs and no more. But tax cuts shouldn't be held hostage to corresponding spending reductions.
Tax cuts are necessary even if deficits result.
Lower spending and reduced taxes even with red ink are better than higher spending and bigger taxes with black ink. Deficits help restrain congressional spending. Today's system, based on envy, unfairly punishes success. Instead of discouraging achievement, Uncle Sam should encourage people to prosper. Along with tax reduction should come tax simplification.