Taxes are always a contentious issue in American politics. The two leading parties in the country have their own views on taxes. The Republicans are mostly in favor of tax cuts for businesses, whereas the Democrats generally favor proportionately high taxes for the rich. In my personal opinion I support a progressive tax regime that levies a greater tax rate on corporations and rich individuals. The rationale for this position is the prevailing disparities in American society. Despite being the richest country in the world, the United States lags behind in welfare and social security features.
The revenues collected through a progressive tax regime can be utilized to strengthen the public healthcare system. As it stands, the United States has more than 50 million citizens without health insurance. This is a shocking statistic, for with only a fraction of the yearly military budget, health access and healthcare outcomes in the country could be improved multifold. In a similar vein, channeling a portion of corporate revenues toward strengthening our healthcare system will pay rich social dividends.
Much of the criticism directed at welfare programs like Medicaid, Medicare and social security are misplaced. Existing welfare programs are a godsend for those Americans belonging to the lowest strata of American society. They should not be criticized for being a drain on the economy. To the contrary, it is corporations which owns substantial resources and yet acts without social or environmental responsibility. It is only fair that corporations are taxed more as reparation for the damage they chronically cause to society and environment.