[jonestown]

The 23% versus 30% inclusive/exclusive rate stuff is pretty much the same framing things in terms of how the current tax system is calculated and expressing this in similar terms. Either way, the cost the same. I think that the planners thought the 23% rate sounded better and easier to sell to people. They didn't count on the ability of it's proponents to do the job and sell the program using the higher rate.
I hope that helps somewhat.

The point I'm trying to make here is that hyping the lower 23% 'rate', when it is actually 30% is a pretty odd way to sell anything..

I still get confused on the inclusive v. exclusive stuff. I just quote the 30% if I mention any rate. Generally, I talk in terms of the benefits of going this route and destroying the IRS. Often, that's enough to bring people on board.
839 Badray

Thanks for your honest answer. I agree, our main effort should be to destroy the IRS.

[Badray]

I had responded only because the experts hadn't yet, but they since have presented a much better explanation than mine and I find that I was in error. I apologize.

The interest rate example is accurate, just misapplied to this situation.

I still do not believe that it is deceitful in any way.