On Redistribution

I have heard Republicans accuse Democrats of favoring wealth redistribution. I will admit that Democrats do not do a good job of dispelling this myth (see Obama v. Joe the Plumber). But let me take a quick stab at making clear what the Democrats position is - or at least should be.

Democrats believe that government provides necessary services, from public health and safety (military, police, fire, hospitals), to needed public infrastructure (roads and rail), education, and a safety net, among other things. All of these things are necessary.

We also believe that some of the ways we raise revenue should be progressive, meaning that the rich should pay higher rates. It is only fair that people that have more money should bear more of the burden because they can bear more of the burden.

What Democrats need to make clear - over and over again - is that a progressive tax structure is to pay for necessary services. We do not take from the rich to give to the poor. We take from everyone - in some cases at higher rates from the rich - so that people do not starve, do not live unsheltered, do not go without health care and so that there is police, military, roads and education. Among other things.