In April of this year, Bernie Sanders, perpetual candidate for President, made the following statement when asked about all the money he made from his book deal (over a million dollars) and how much in taxes he paid on said income:
“C’mon,” he said, “I pay the taxes that I owe.”
In other words, he didn’t voluntarily pay any more. He took all the deductions allowed by law and paid only the taxes that the law required.
But wait – isn’t that what all wealthy Americans do? I’m sure there are a lot of folks who don’t make a millions dollars writing a book that think Bernie’s situation looks pretty good; so why shouldn’t Bernie pay more in taxes, you know, because he is wealthy?
And what about all the evil corporations that don’t pay any taxes? Aren’t they just following the law? They only pay, or don’t pay, what the law requires. Just like good ‘Ol Bernie.
So why is there always two sets-of-rules when it comes to politicians? They are very fond of others paying more in taxes, just not themselves.
Remember when John Kerry was caught mooring his yacht in a different state/town to avoid taxes? Hmmmmm, kinda sounds similar to Bernie.
Bernie’s form of socialism is great for Bernie. It’s all “the other” wealthy people and businesses that should pay more taxes. Just not Bernie. Nice gig – it must be great to be smart like Bernie to know just how wealthy you need to be before you start paying more in taxes. How many houses do you own Bernie?
2setsofrules suggests that Bernie lead by example; write a check to the US Treasury for an extra $50,000 next time you do your taxes – hey, your wealthy and I think you can afford it.
Just not me.