Ed, I don't disagree with you, but that would entail agreement on comprehensive tax reform. I don't think that's likely to happen. We could see a few stand alone bills, better for soap-boxing, and easier to get through the gang of 535. The other problem with a flat tax is that it would probably not end up being a no-deduction tax. It would probably be at least a tax on profit and wages, and that means deductions. Right back where we started.
A flat tax done as a Sales tax would be very easy to implement I would think.
Bill, I'm going with a "perhaps" response on that one. Would the flat sales tax apply to other taxes being paid, such as property tax? How about tax on medical care? Home purchases and commisions paid? Insurance premiums? College tuition? Charitable contributions? Purchases made while in another country? I think we could end up trading one mess for another.
A no deduction or loophole flat-tax rate would help far more people, especially the tax burdened middle class. A 10% across the board tax with no deductions would allow those that really nee the money to keep more and those with large incomes to finally pay their share