Most politicians would rather not discuss their incomes in public.
Rep. John Fleming (R-La.), however, let MSNBC interviewer Chris Jansing know he brings in $600,000 annually. In reality, Fleming has an income of about $6 million.
“The amount that I have to reinvest in my business and feed my family is more like $600,000 of that $6.3 million,” said Fleming. “So by the time I feed my family I have, maybe, $400,000 left over to invest in new locations, upgrade my locations, buy more equipment.”
Fleming believes taxes on the wealthy should be lowered, not raised. He stated he cannot afford a tax hike, as President Obama is recommending.
It’s hard to be sympathetic for a politician who rakes in more money than 98 percent of the U.S. population.
In Fleming’s district, the median annual income is $31,000. Compared to his $600,000, $31,000 is measly.
If Congress were to repeal the Bush tax cuts, Fleming would pay 4.6 percent more annually. This would leave Fleming with only $572,400.
Taking into account the $200,000 Fleming requires to feed his family, he would net $372,400.
Obviously, repealing the tax cuts would greatly handicap Fleming and his family.
Who is he kidding? $372,400 is definitely enough money for investments and rainy days.
Fleming stated repealing the tax cuts would not create new jobs and would not help the economic situation.
Before the Bush tax cuts were signed into law, Americans created 22 million new jobs and enjoyed a sustained period of economic success stories.
Fleming fancies himself as an amazing, job-creating patriot who is victimized by “class warfare.”
It’s a little disheartening to hear a multi-million-dollar congressman complain about his taxes being hiked a little bit.
Although no one likes to pay taxes, the truth is taxes support the very infrastructure that keeps this country afloat.
Fleming owns many business ventures, including Subway restaurants and UPS stores.
We aren’t attacking Fleming’s success. His virtue is none of our business, but creating jobs is part of his.
Fleming needs to step up to the plate and accept a tax hike that will create jobs and help the economy.
Other congressmen should follow suit.