Cottage industry? It isn't the average taxpayer who lobbies to get those tax laws and special exemptions. It's businesses and the wealthy. They're going to fight your proposition tooth and nail, as will the 47% of the population who will see their taxes go up considerably under your plan.
Oh, and I think there is a zero chance for meaningful tax reform.
You are right why there is effectively a zero chance for tax reform.
However, IMHO, you have incorrectly identified the cause. No wealthily person, business, or union writes the tax code - Congress does. As long as Congress continues to see the tax code as an effective and invisible way to raise money for reelection they will be walking the halls of power with their hands out. If Congress didn’t have their hands out seeking money for tax exemptions how could the wealthy people, businesses, and unions get a tax break?