What a trite and overly simplistic idea. First is the idea that Government spending is bad. Second is the idea that Government spending is controlled directly by taxes. Third is the idea that a majority of people actually pay any income tax at the end of the year. Fourth is the idea that people understand their taxes. Fifth is the idea that it is income taxes are the only taxes.

I could go on, but I digress.

>> "Elections should be held on April 16th- the day after we pay our income taxes. That is one of the few things that might discourage politicians from being big spenders." - Thomas Sowell

> What a trite and overly simplistic idea. First is the idea that Government spending is bad. Second is the idea that Government spending is controlled directly by taxes. Third is the idea that a majority of people actually pay any income tax at the end of the year. Fourth is the idea that people understand their taxes. Fifth is the idea that it is income taxes are the only taxes.

And sixth is the idea that it's even necessary. Pretty much my entire adult life has been major tax cut after major tax cut, one useful starved government program after another (the Strategic National Stockpile anyone?), and a ballooning deficit.

> First is the idea that Government spending is bad.

It's not saying that all spending is bad. The point is to have some pushback so it's not so wastefully spent. Some efficiency would be welcome by all, I think.

> Some efficiency would be welcome by all, I think.

That’s a silly thing to think when observably many are benefiting from that waste and inefficiency.

You’ve not said anything obviously false, but I also don’t see you making any kind of a point. I think you’re attempting to imply one though and I’m curious what it is.

> "Elections should be held on April 16th- the day after we pay our income taxes. That is one of the few things that might discourage politicians from being big spenders."

This is the reason why we have to file tax papers. State & federal can calculate taxes for majority of the people but don't because a group "" want people to suffer and revolt against income tax.

All politicians wants to cut spending but just not for the area they represent.

The biggest reason we don't have automatic tax filing in the U.S. is the Intuit & H&R Block lobbyists fighting against it.

According to this ProPublica report, that is.

https://www.propublica.org/article/inside-turbotax-20-year-f...

As the saying goes. Out of sight out of mind.

I’ve always liked the idea of just reusing the Fourth of July. I think there would be a lot less animosity from the losing parties if everyone was celebrating America on the same day.

I love this idea, but patriotism in the United States is mostly an act. Asking people to back their 'love of country' with an actual deed (especially one that shortens their time at the barbecue) would spoil the illusion.

Or it would encourage politicians to make sure more of your paycheck is withheld, to make 100% sure you end up with a big refund.