by Yeshe G. Muhammad

Created on: March 28, 2009

Do I favor the 50 percent income tax increased proposed by Pat Quinn? I apologize for not calling him Governor because I do not see him as the Governor because of the way he came into that position. I wish to be fair and just in my reason for not doing so, which is more than I can say for the "cabal" in Springfield. Read on for my opinion on the tax increase issue.

Tax increases in this day and age when the economy is failing the average American is sheer nonsense. If the people are already suffering enormous financial deficits in their personal finances, only an enemy of the people would cry out for a tax increase. I look at taxes as a way for corrupt politicians to steal the resources of the people. Why do I feel that way? Simply, I believe the people are willing to pay for what they get.

For example, if I drive, would I be willing to spend a few dollars more for the services provided by the Secretary of State? Of course I would!. I am sure there are many Illinoisans who feel the way I do. They too would rather pay for various services that they use rather than give corrupt politicians an opportunity to squander their hard earned dollars. Politicians such as Pat Quinn and the greedy cabal in Springfield are acting like foxes in the chicken coop with Illinois resources. Before they even took time to assess the State's finances, they are ready to raise taxes. I find such behavior suspect on their part.

There are several other ways to generate more revenue for operation of the State's programs. First, raising fees on state services instead of tax increases enhances the the efficiency of state workers as well. With increased fees and increased services, they will have to serve the people of Illinois better and justify their salaries. That brings me to the second option which would be to reduce State salaries accross the board by at least 5% in order to increase the State Revenue. Thirdly, we could put a cap on politicians salaries, especially those who are now doing what is known as "double dipping". Lastly, prevent State representatives and Senators from running for both offices.

By all of us acting respoonsibly and cutting waste of personal and State resources, we can eliminate the need totally for tax increases. Above all, the very individuals who cry for tax increases are the very ones who cause the deficits. This concludes my reason for not supporting a tax increase. Since we are all in this "boat" together, we all have to do what we can to resolve the problems. Thank you for reading these words.

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