Small government advocates have worked to shrink government by cutting taxes. The results have been exploding economic inequality and federal budget deficits. They are now working to cut state income taxes and local property taxes. This will only expand economic inequality and feed the oligarchy.

Democracy requires fair taxation. The current U.S. tax system is unfair. Increased progressivity of individual and business income tax rates, especially on income from wealth (versus work), is one essential piece of re-establishing a fair tax system and reducing economic inequality.

Trump’s proposal to eliminate taxes on tips sounds good but analysis shows it’s bad policy. Tariffs can be used effectively, but Trump’s tariff actions are already hurting our economy and will raise prices. They’re also ripe for political corruption.