Tax reform isn't dead at all but just geting going. This should help kick-start it. If you don't think so, read the numerous unedited comments already in to the panel after about a day:
http://www.freerepublic.com/focus/news/1501413/posts?page=1
The are uniformly displeased with the tax panels cop-out. These voices are just beginning and you can bet they will be heard. Some have some real political heat behind them.
Keep in mind that the Panel sends its "work" to the Sec'y. of the Treasury and not directly to Congress or the President. There are many, many miles to cross yet so get in touch with your Congresscats and give them an earful (or letter or email full).
"The are uniformly displeased with the tax panels cop-out. These voices are just beginning and you can bet they will be heard. Some have some real political heat behind them."
That is a valid point. Even though the final workproduct of the commission may be of poor quality, the whole process may have "stirred up the pot" so to speak. It may very well have increased the visibility and the expectations of the general public to the point where politicians won't be able to put this genie back in the bottle so to speak.
Of course, as I posted before, there are factors that we don't know about yet (such as Delay and a national media campaign) which will have a major impact.
I still say the jury is not in yet.