A POLL TAX FOR A NEW GENERATION…. One of the most amusing aspects of “Fox & Friends” is their habit of phrasing ridiculous points as questions. It’s a classic cop-out — they’re not making an insulting point; they’re just posing a question for debate. (“Are liberal Democrats more likely to hurt puppies? We’re not saying they are; we’re just asking a question.”)
This morning, host/activist Steve Doocy posed a “controversial” question: “With 47% of Americans not paying taxes — 47% — should those who don’t pay be allowed to vote?”
As is always the case, he’s not necessarily saying they should be denied the ability to vote; Doocy was just posing a question.
Well, it’s a stupid question. For one thing, Doocy’s simply wrong on the facts. When he expresses amazement that 47% of Americans are “not paying taxes,” he’s making a deliberately misleading claim. Yes, many middle- and lower-class families get a break on their federal income taxes, but what Doocy neglects to mention is that these same folks still pay sales taxes, state taxes, Social Security taxes, Medicare/Medicaid taxes, and in many instances, property taxes.
To suggest, as Doocy does, that 47% are somehow getting away with something is crazy.
For another, does Doocy think it’s a bad thing that so many Americans get a break on their federal income taxes? As a Republican, wouldn’t it be odd for him to support tax increases on nearly half the country?
And finally, even if Doocy’s bogus claim were accurate — it’s not, but let’s say it is for the sake of conversation — in what universe would we deny Americans the right to vote based on the size of their tax burden?
Tune into “Fox & Friends,” where you’ll get a glimpse of Jim Crow laws for a new generation.
