As American as....Taxes?

As we emerge from the July 4th weekend, we all find ourselves thinking about all things that are quintessentially American: baseball, apple pie, mom, and the flag. But what about taxes?

True, other countries pay income taxes too, and in fact, some pay them at a much higher rate than we do here in America. However, our system of government "for the people, by the people" means that we as a citizenry are uniquely positioned to make sure our tax dollars are spent for their best purpose.

Consider this: the highest earning Americans pay federal income taxes at 35 percent and state or local income taxes as high as 12 percent, plus payroll taxes, sales tax, property taxes, motor vehicle taxes, and the list goes on......it's conceivable that our top "inclusive" tax rate here in America can approach 60 percent! Even on the low end of the spectrum, Americans can see their total tax burden at 20 percent or more of their income.

This isn't meant to be a political blog, so I won't offer my opinion on whether that's a good or a bad thing. But it is reality, and each of us - no matter how much we pay in taxes - has a duty to keep our Government accountable to spend our tax dollars wisely.

As we return to work and get over our "barbecue overdoses", let's all take some time to remember that we the People are the ones who technically run the government and that this power comes with responsibility. Everyone knows of their civic duties to vote and pay taxes, but let's not forget that we also have a duty to hold Government responsible for proper stewardship of our tax dollars.

--Dan Musick