Politicians need to study the Laffer Curve. Simply stated, it show that there are multiple tax rates that yield the same level of tax revenue: one low, one high. NY, CA, NJ and many others are on the “downside” to the taxes collected side of the curve...and they know it. However, being able to give out your money is what creates political power, and they know that, too. Until they learn that deficits can also be brought under control with reduced spending, we are all doomed.
They are quite aware of the Laffer Curve.
Taxes are not about revenue, except as a secondary side effect.
Taxes are about control and punishing success and anyone who dares to dream they could be half as good as any of their government 'betters'...