"Value Added Tax is on the Table"

Well, for all you who desire that the US be more like those other industrial countries (socialized health care, etc.), you should welcome this opportunity for parity.

Here comes the middle class tax that Obama said wouldn't happen. How did SNL miss this one.

#5 | Posted by mysterytoy

Sigh...

Obama never stated that there would not be a middle class tax increase. If he did, please cite exact time and speech that he stated this. But you can't because he didn't.

Obama stated that there would not be an increase in the federal income tax.

A VAT is not an income tax.

The Euro countries all have VATs, up to 15%.

Also note that the tourist industry, specifically in the hospitality sector, has been charging VATs for decades.

You really need to get your facts in order.

We cannot take any more financial stress. I anticipate more stress and am trying to prepare. This is not good.

#7 | Posted by wurster

You are right: it is Not Good.

But we, the collective we, are responsible for letting things spiral out of control. And we, the collective we, are going to have to pony up a larger share to get us out of the Deep Stuff.

What's the alternative?

Damn unfortunate to be sure.

A real downside of a VAT (other than having to pay one at all!) is that it will affect the less income enhanced to a much greater degree.

17 | Posted by ELCIDCE90

Thank you so much for calling me a liar. Easy and cowardly to do from behind your screen.

But you're right. I did not see that clip.

So, why do you go out of your way to be a dick?

What's the alternative?

Cut spending across the board.

#14 | Posted by taxman

You seem to be starting with the premise that every dollar spent by our government is necessary.

#15 | Posted by JOE

It was not my intention to imply that the only method to increase revenues is by an increased fleecing of the people. We only got so much wool for the shearing and it takes time to grow it back.

Yeah, government spending can be curtailed, but there are always other projects that need immediate attention. Highways, byways, roads, and bridges. Sad, sad, sad shape so may are in. Talkin' Carl's billions and billions here.

My GF always tells me when we have these discussions that the US can bring its troops home: the billions not being pissed away Over There could be well dispersed around domestic projects that do demand immediate relief and major funding. Not just infrastrructure, but that is definitely a priority.

A VAT ain't gonna do it. 'Sides, where is the "Value Added" for me? Except maybe weight reduction, as in making my wallet lighter.

" how is that working out for thier level of inovation"

How's this:

dont you anti tax people understand that you are just too goddamn stupid to know whats a tax and whats not?

#21 | Posted by afkabl2

There always be ways 'round it too. Instead of increasing taxes on utilities, specifically water, to upgrade infrastructure for water drainage and sewage systems, my city imposed what is called a storm water fee, based on how much impermeable area one has on one's property. It's still a tax, but it was called a fee and not voted on by the people.