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TAXES: And fairness for all

| January 3, 2020 12:00 AM

Wealth is not a dirty word. Were it not for the wealth of our founding fathers, we would still be a serfdom of England. Those signing the Declaration of Independence mortgaged their wealth to fund their endeavor and knew that if they failed to gain independence, they would lose everything, be tried for treason and sentenced to death.

God has blessed our nation with wealth beyond measure. Capitalistic greed and socialistic inroads are eroding the character and future of the nation. “The highest use of capital is not to make more money, but to do more for the betterment of life.” — Henry Ford.

We should never run huge deficits when the economy is strong. The president and Congress have created a dangerous economic bubble. If the economy falters, the average middle-class household will default on home mortgages and other notes, while the wealthy will go virtually unscathed.

Our government officials should heed the advice of Warren Buffet and learn from the last downturn. The present tax structure does favor those classified as wealthy. They rely on the use of our infrastructure and airports much more than the average household. I hope that Congress will adapt Andrew Carnegie’s philosophy and adjust the tax structure to meet the needs of the nation. Here are his words, “Surplus wealth is a sacred trust which its possessor is bound to administer in his lifetime for the good of the community.” (nation)

P.S. The Dec. 27 Press editorial on excessive debt is certainly welcomed and should be read and reread.

LEONARD BRANT

Post Falls