Eventhough, just for the record, flat taxes proportionally hit the poor far heavier than the rich. If I made $10k and got taxed 10% im left with $9k to live. If I make $100k and taxed at 10% I still have $90k to live! BIG DIFFERENCE as to how one may have to live on what's left after their "equal" and "simple" payment as a contribution to this so called civilization. No one making under $20k should have to pay a dime for anyting this government has to "offer." Sales taxes, fines, so much of the whole system beats down low income earners keeping them desperate and too often protential criminals. I could go on for days but I'll stop here.