[Taxman]

You are correct!

The so-called “Flat Tax” is still an income tax, and I can make the case that a flat income tax will cause the IRS to become even more intrusive and antagonistic towards the citizenry (that would be US!).

[semimojo]

You are correct!

The so-called “Flat Tax” is still an income tax, and I can make the case that a flat income tax will cause the IRS to become even more intrusive and antagonistic towards the citizenry (that would be US!).

The problem is that everyone wants a simple solution. Politicians have had bumper sticker solutions (Abolish the IRS!) for decades, but they usually ignore the realities of everyday life. Even Ted's flat tax proposal retains the mortgage interest and charitable deductions.

If starting from scratch I would advocate a consumption tax but I don't see a path to get there from where we are now.

The reality is we need to deal with what we have in front of us and that is an income tax with a horribly bastardized (by congress) incentive system.

As satisfying as it feels we can't just trash the existing system but have to discuss realistic alternatives.