Republican Party Ninth District Kevin Harris

In less than one month, Georgia voters will begin the process of selecting the next President of the United States. Until recently, the vast majority of voters have not paid much attention to the candidates, the issues, the records, or even their experience (or lack thereof). As we enter this process, there are a couple of observations that I would like to share.

The current federal income tax as we know it was passed through the 16th Amendment on February 25, 1913. As you could imagine, a potential income tax was very unpopular, so Congress explained that the tax would be a low rate of only 1% on incomes above $3,000 and 2% to 7% on incomes between $20,000 and $500,000. Since the average citizen only made $800 at in 1913, most people did not pay attention because it didn't impact them directly.

Since then, Congress has gradually raised the tax rates. Inflation over the years has allowed people to be moved to higher tax brackets. A system meant to "tax the rich" now impacts "almost all of us". Originally, the legislation that only taxed those over 375% over the median income (the rich) now impacts every hardworking legal American citizen on a weekly, bi-weekly, or possibly monthly, basis.

Oh my, how history repeats itself. Going into the 2008 election cycle, politicians have already made the typical promises to basically buy votes. Depending on which candidate, some promise "free" national health care, or at least universal health care that will largely be paid by only the "wealthiest citizens". Some promise to "invest" in various programs to appease certain constituent groups. One even promised a $5000 "baby bond" for every child born in the United States at a recent Congressional Black Caucus forum before she suddenly backed off the initial proposal. Every week, at least one presidential candidate creates a new program on which to spend your tax dollars.

While this type of politics is typical, it should not be the expected norm. Americans deserve more than candidates who make grand promises and then leave it to the next generation to figure out how to pay for it. Any politician promising

free" anything from the federal government is being intellectually dishonest. In my mind, promising "don't worry, someone else will pay for this" is just as insincere. This culture of corruption has helped to create the now negative view of Washington and our federal government. It is no wonder that the current Congress has alltime low rating under the new Democratic leadership.

Instead of mortgaging the American dream for future generations, it is time to elect true leaders willing to be financially responsible. Instead of protecting the special interests, it is time to look out for the American taxpayer. Instead of supporting a candidate based on what they are willing to "give" you, maybe it is time that we chose a leader that is willing to make decisions on principles and integrity instead of polls and posturing.

Kevin Harris, Mineral Bluff, is the Chairman of the Ninth District Republican Party, he holds a Bachelor of Political Science and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Georgia and is a private consultant, teacher, and a life-long resident of the North Georgia mountains.