8/20/11 Hello RAPUFATI members. The work that you are doing for more rational tax policy in this country is of great importance. I appreciate your voices within the current political climate, and economic crises we face here in the United States. We are proud to share your work at Jubilee USA Network!---Jeremy Weyl, Jubilee USA Network
7/27/11 " I've gotta tell you, the POV from this side of the pond is that Boner (or whatever his name is) is basically some kind of Christian fundamentalist who is recklessly high jacking The American economy (risking global chaos) just to make a point that no one over here agrees with. I think the damage has been done, as far as America's position in the world economy-- we are basically a far right version of Greece (but with nuclear weapons). Time to learn Mandarin."--Steven Heller, England
7/25/11 It sounds to good to be true! How many members do you have????---Ellen McCarthy
7/20/11 The Tea Party's latest "Big Idea": Don't raise the Debt Ceiling for a couple of years while we hash out a constitutional balanced budget amendment. We wish we were making this up. Do Speaker Boehner and Senator McConnell have any control of the Teahadis? What should we do if they tank the world economy (again)?
Now I know why they call it the Tea Party. It isn't for their links to American history in Boston Harbor. It's the lineage to the Mad Hatter and his pals from Alice and Wonderland.---Truth-2-Power.com
6/28/11 While tax reform waits on partisan politics the country will borrow more and spend more. When will Obama call the GOP bluff? GOVERNMENT DEPENDS ON ADEQUATE REVENUES SENSIBLY ADMINISTERED. How long will this drag on?---Abe Blinken, IL
6/23/11 Crossroads Fund applauds RAPUFATI for doing a great job of carrying your agenda for a truly equitable tax system beyond the country club and into the mass media. You guys rock! (By the way, can you still get served at the club bar or has your membership been revoked? Just wondering.) --Jeanne Kracher, Executive Director
6/16/11 Thanks for creating a site that refuses to accept the myth that all Americans get an equal start on a level playing field, and goes further in suggesting that those with advantages ought of make a bigger contribution, And that the tax policy is an appropriate place to be honest about this! Yes, please raise my taxes, and use them to provide healthcare, playgrounds, and good schools.---Stephanie Browner, Berea, KY
6/16/11 My brother Carl passed your website on to me because as fellow Democrats we share the same philosophy regarding taxation, In spite of the efforts of our Democratic leadersm the Republicans hold steadfast to their selfish beliefs of no higher taxation for wealthier Americans, If more individuals felt as we dom our country would be better off financially.--Kathleen Johann
6/15/11 I think this is a great organization and I wish more people of wealth and means were as patriotic, generous and concerned about their fellow Americans and citizens of other countries as Mary and Kristina.---Rupert Scofield, Finca
6/10/11 I know Mary, and she, like me, is only cranky about bad government. She also has more enthusiasm and energy then most people half her age. It's exhilarating to see someone with such passion and commitment to a cause even at a so called "ripe old age". And I should know--my golden years have been packed with a passion for better government. Since my retirement after 26 years of political reporting at ABC7 Chicago, I've been leading the change at the Better Government Association . All of us deserve a government that's accountable, efficient and honest. Better government is our right and it can become a reality if we advocate forcefully and intelligently. Visit our website, www.bettergov.org, see what we're doing, and consider joining us as tipsters, members or contributers. Andy Shaw, President and CEO, Better Government Association,Chicago
6/7/11 Big Congratulations on your article and RAPUFATI mention in the Chicago Tribune. I am thrilled at the great coverage of this issue, thought it generated a lot of comments online. It sounds like you have a strong supporter in Rep. Schaikowsky so I hope this is a boost for your efforts and the public profile of RAPUFATI.---Vickie Clarke
6/6/11 I saw your op-ed piece in the Chicago Tribune. Great work. I called my congressman and asked him to join Rep. Jan Schaikowsky as a co-sponsor of the Fairness in Taxation Act. Hope other RAPUFATI fans will do the same. Please reprint the info. about the Congressional Switchboard you gave us last year. ---Martia Millbank, IL
Directors reply: Here it is.
The Capitol switchboard offers great service. Call (202)224-3121 and get a real live person. No "press one, press two", no waiting. Ask for your Senator or Representative and be immediately connected with a courteous staffer who will take your message, ask for your zip code, and thank you for calling. Two minutes of your time and you can enjoy the glow of participatory citizenship.
6/5/11 Generosity of spirit, and money and wit! How much clearer could the case be made for the wealthy, those more fortunate, to gain perspective, give and get their government to demand the same? Thanks for this website, your insights, and this gathering of people. Here's to hoping that our government develops the reasonableness and commitment that guides you. Great stuff!---Matthew Spitzer, MD
6/3/11 Which one of you ladies is the Republican, and which is the Democrat? Or do you both pretend to be non-partisan?--Eye Are Ess
DIRECTORS NOTE: Millions of millionaires
Well, the recession has been very tough on a lot of people but not everybody. In 2010 the number of millionaires in the US increased 8% to 8.4 million, which is pretty good but not as good as the 16% increase in 2009. There were more then a million Ultra High Net Worth individuals (at least $5 million), and 365 billionaires. Many of these fat cats are retired from notable careers and eligible for Social Security, though why a multi-millionaire should be getting a checking a monthly check from a flat broke government defies all logic. Shame on the 261 millionaire members of congress who should be reforming the system.
6/2/11 A group of Rich Germans has launched a petition calling for the government to make wealthy people pay higher taxes. The group says they have more money then they need and the extra revenue could fund economic and social programs to aid Germany's economic recovery. Germany could raise one 100bn Euros if the richest people paid a 5% wealth tax for two years they say. The petition has 44 signatures so far, and will be presented to newly reelected Chancellor Angela Merkel.
Those who had "made a fortune through inheritance, hard work, successful entrepreneurship,or investment" should contribute by paying more to alleviate the crisis. Lets follow the steps of the German rich and be bolder givers. ---Ray Santiago, Amherst, MA
5/27/11 June 7th will be the ten year anniversary of the Bush tax cuts, a gravy decade for the very rich and hard times for the rest of the country. Should we let those tax cuts expire or extend them, maybe make them permanent? Some Republicans like Rep. Paul Ryan insist that lower taxes would increase investment and create jobs, giving a boost to the economy and stimulating growth. Some of them probably thought they would be taken up in The Rapture. They were wrong about that to.--Skeptical Sam, Montana
Every boy and every gal
That's born into the world alive
Is either a little Liberal
Or else a little Conservitive---WS Gilbert, "Iolanthe"
5/26/11 Taxes are part of the social contract. There's plenty of room to argue about who should pay how much and who benefits from government expenditures, but without taxation of some kind there can be no legitimate police force, no law courts, no other democratic institutions, not even a pretense of equal opportunity, and therefore no liberty in any practical sense. ---Xoddam, on LWN.net
5/25/11 Great website. I lived in Australia long enough to become a dual citizen, (9 years) and I experienced what happens in a country with little wealth and hardly any taxes on anyone, public services were minimal libraries were scarce in small towns and animal shelters were non-existent public gathering places for music and theatre were-- oh well, mostly spots under a tree outside. We are so very lucky in this country to have all of the services that we have that are provided by not only tax dollars from the wealthy but from their generous philanthropy. You go girls --Kristina and Mary. Yeah!!!-- C. Olson, Kentucky
5/23/11 As a Canadian/American with dual citizenship, I'm intrigued with this concept. Here in Canada, we pay higher taxes then the United States and in turn we reap the benefits, such as universal medical coverage - which works well, contrary to whatever you may hear. However, just as in the US, the middle income group is unfairly taxed compared to the upper income sector, You go girls!!!---Georgiann Kasdorf, Canada
5/10/11 Is there something peculiar about the water in your area? Would a chlorinator help? I shall work to recruit new members (A & B) for RAPUFATI from among our donors, especially trustees. Also will ask members of Congress (nearby) especially Republicans. Wish I could join this group. ---Lindsey Mattison, Washington, DC
5/5/11 I have an idea. Perhaps you'd consider a new membership class: Children of Poor Middle Class Parents who would be willing to be adopted by a Rich American Patriot. I volunteer for the pilot program. I am 50 years old, but can play catch, stay up past my bedtime, love a story at night, cookies and chocolate milk. Plus I need a new car :) ---Barry Karr
5/4/11 Thank you both for starting this, what I hope WILL be a revolution! You renewed my faith that there is still sanity from our citizens about tax policy, if not from our Congress.---Deb Schlies
5/3/11 Okay ladies, by "reforming the system" you mean means testing for entitlement benefits, right? That would be a good start. ---Penny Pincher, Elkhart, Indiana
5/1/11 I was looking at your website today and wanted to applaud your effort. It is encouraging to see that those with wealth also understand something important about distributing that wealth. Not only will it improve the lives of those with less money, it will greatly enhance the lives of the wealthy themselves. Hiding behind privilege, sheltered from the majority of the population, is no way to live. This hit home for me in the "born rich" documentry about the aires to our nations biggest fortunes. They described childhoods full of secrets, lies, and deep, deep disconnection from the world around them. We must break that cycle. We can't let another generation grow up with the belief that some are better then others for any reason. Thank you for urging the rich to stand shoulder to shoulder with us in that fight.---Alysia Tate, Chicago
4/26/11 I throughly enjoyed reading the website, and absolutely love how two women from two different eras can be this thoughtful and forceful about change in America. Kudos to you and yours for standing up for a better America. I don't have the answers about how things need to or should change, but I do know that "business as usual" is just not cutting it!--Tom Hanschman
4/25/11 This changed my attitude about paying my taxes. I am taken by the feeling that there are a group ofpeople who embody the real American Spirit. They're not trying to outmaneuver the government by ducking their responsibility to pay taxes. These are the real patriots - patriots with a sense of humor. Long may we wave---Dick Hatten
4/24/11 I am very moved by your patriotism. You have recognized what the ideologues in Washington, D.C. have lost all sight of --that we are all in this together, that we are bound up, as Martin Luther King put it "in a single garment of destiny." We honor the success of wealthy people, but we also recognize that the success of individuals is the result not only of their initiative but also due to the contributions of previous generations and workers today -- and to and the public investments we make together through government.
Our democracy, our society and our culture are in grave peril -- and the delusion that individuals acting alone are responsible for their success or failure is a great part of the problem. There is "enough" in our society for everyone to have what they need to thrive. There may be a budget deficit, but there is no deficit of resources or talent. We desperately need leadership at all levels --of the kind that you are providing!-- to restore sanity and balance to our discourse on economic issues. Thank you RAPUFATI for your compassion, your enlightened self-interest, and your common sense! We at the Center for Community Change embrace your vision for a more just society.--Deepak Bhargava, Washington, DC
4/23/11 I have been trying to understand Rep. Paul Ryan's Roadmap for America plan to privatize Medicare and the government does it for 3%. But proponents say it would be good for senior's mental health, they would feel more robust and independent if they had "more skin in the game." Well maybe - many seniors have been skinned so often, they don't have much left for games. Also, as tax reform, Ryan asks for a $125,000.00 tax cut for people with incomes over $1 million. If this is his Path to Prosperity, it's full of potholes.---Nervous Nellie, IL
You Know, gentlemen, that I do not owe any personal income tax, but nevertheless I send a small check, now and then to the internal revenue service, out of the kindness of my heart, ---David Rockefeller, NY
4/19/11 I keep hearing we aren't having inflation, but the cost of goods are skyrocketing: oil, food, college tuition, gold, silver, copper. How is that?---Lynn Lourie
The rich hire lawyers and accountants for a reason - to pass the tax bill on to you.---George W. Bush
4/18/11 I want to help!---Ken Stanley
4/14/11 An old Chinese proverb says, "One generation plants the trees, another enjoys the shade." Right now there are way too many enjoying the shade of limited taxes and multiple tax breaks. It is time for them to get out from their "gated forests" and help the rest of us plant the trees that will protect tomorrow's students, teachers, and our country! ---Shari
4/8/11 Does anybody want to talk about gold? I mean the 260+ million troy ounces we are sitting on and paying to protect, worth about $400 billion at current prices. The UK and Switzerland sell their gold, Canada has sold almost all its gold. Why are we hoarding it?---Number Cruncher, CA
4/7/11 Here at the Tax Policy Center, my colleagues and I have been examining various ways that the United States might raise more tax revenues. In my view, the most promising way to do so would be to roll back, and in some cases eliminate the numerous tax breaks that complicate both the individual and corporate tax codes. We could then use the resulting revenues both to reduce deficits and to finance some reductions in tax rates. Done well, this approach could raise more revenue, reduce economic harm from the tax system, and make the system more progressive (since many tax preferences provide the most benefit for folks with high incomes).
This general idea has gained some traction in Washington, but it could use help from folks like you out in the real world. Many programs structured as tax preferences are really spending programs in disguise - as more folks recognize that, I believe that more people will be open to revenue increases that come from reducing tax breaks.-Donald Marron, Washington, DC
Why shouldn't the American people take half of my money from me? I took all of it from them.---Edward Filene, early Boston mercantile magnate
DIRECTORS NOTE:
4/6/11 For those of us interested in tax reform, March 10 was a busy day in Congress. Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D, IL) with eight co-sponsors (Dems: Edwards, Filner, Nadler, Cohen, Yarmuth, Defazio, Grijaiva, Ellison) introduced HR 1124, the Fairness in Taxation Act. In the Senate, Sen. Bernie Sanders (IND, VT), with Sen. Barbara Mikulski (D. Md), introduced S. 552, the Emergency Deficit Reduction Act HR. 1124 would amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to impose increased rates with respect to taxpayers with more than $1,000,000 taxable income. Currently, the top marginal tax rate of 35% applies to incomes starting at $373,650. It does not distinguish between taxpayers making a few hundred thousand dollars a year and those who take home many millions. The graduated rates proposed in HR. 1124 are:
45% for incomes over $1 million
46% for incomes over $10 million
47% for incomes over $20 million
48% for incomes over $100 million
49% for incomes over $1 billion
It would also enact an ordinary income tax rate for capital gains and dividend income for people who make more then $1 million a year. It would leave taxes for everybody else where they are. These rates are expected to generate more than $78 billion in annual revenue for our needy country.
S. 552 is intended to reduce the federal budget deficit by enacting a 5.4% surtax on adjusted gross incomes over $1million a year, and by eliminating oil and gas company loopholes. 2% of all individual tax returns are on incomes of over $1 million. For more information on the fairness in Taxation Act or the Emergency Deficit Reduction Act, you can google Open Congress and read the details, plus what the bloggers have to say about this legislation. Then email your Congresspersons and give them a piece of your mind. And, of course, RAPUFATI welcomes your comments at Rapufati.com.
4/5/11 Hi there, I've been reading Nicholas Shaxson's new book, Treasure Islands; Tax Havens and the Men Who Stole the World. I wish I could say something funny about it -- but's too frightening! Here's a quote from a tax haven booster, Daniel J. Mitchell of the Heritage Foundation, " The vast majority of the worlds population lives in nations where governments fail to provide the basic protections of civilized society. Tax havens hellp protect these people from venal and incompentent governments by providing a secure place to hide their assets." No wonder Newt Gingrich thinks tax havens are great!--Bob Keener
4/3/11 Mary and Krisitna this is a hoot! It's brilliant. I love it, though I do not meet the financial qualifications to join. And it's right on target. Target the wealthy to pay for what we have and want to continue to have. The rest of us do that so why not the wealthy? Thanks for a great treat. May I forward this to friends and family?---Sandra B., Illinois
3/29/11 I know there are good millionaires like Bill Gates and bad millionaires like Bernie Madoff and goofy millionaires like Donald Trump, but I have never met a RAPUFATI millionaire. These patriots realize the government needs money, tax revenue, to meet domestic needs and pay for too many wars. What's more they are willing to be taxed, and will support politicians who are brave enough to propose higher taxes. Thanks to RAPUFATI for giving them the recognition they deserve, and please accept my application for Class B membership. I look forward to meeting a RAPUFATI millionaire in the real world----Raggedy Ann
3/28/11 Go RAPUFATI! Tax cuts are spending, as Allan Abramson said, giving away money tht would otherwise pay for government services (education, infrastructure , defense, or otherwise). Thank you Rapufati for raising the bar and our collective consciousness, and for your activisim and philanthropy in the third sector. You two are patriots and visionaries, a refreshing combination! Many thanks for not only upsetting the apple cart but making sure in the meantime the, the apples get to those who need them most.)---Vicki Clarke
3/28/11 Everyday I see children have great promise and great dreams...and sadly too many children face deep perils (poverty, crime, serious illness in their families). Tax dollars---federal and state---provide resources so that children can be protected, educated, healed. I can think of no better investment of our public resources than to invest in our children---taxes are necessary to make these wise investments and we all benefit when children thrive. Let's make the right investment and stop shorting our future!---Nancy Ronquillo
3/25/11 I hope RAPUFATI can help motivate those who have more than they really need to share some of their wealth. Americans pay very little in taxes compared to the quality of life provided by the services that we receive from most local, state and federal government offices. We take so much for granted. Those roads we use every day, the snow plows and salt trucks we like to complain about, the clean water that flows with merely the turn of the wrist...they aren't all there just because we deserve it. All of these things have to be paid for! If we have the ability to pitch in more tax $ for those things we use every day... why wouldn't we?---Shelia
3/24/11 "KUDOS!"---Jason L.
3/9/11 I am applying for class B membership and am interested in upgrading my membership in the near future, although I am not sure when exactly that will be. I will proudly display the RAPUFATI bumper sticker (we're sure this doesn't mean something bad in another language right?), but it will have to be on our Chrysler mini-van. Mary - thanks for doing this - it is exactly in the right spirit and humor, and just the right tone to capture someones interest to think about this issue. All the best.---Ed Jacob
3/8/11 To find people who realize how fortunate they are, are willing to share their wealth in a fair way to benefit those less fortunate and encourage others to do the same - how refreshing! I totally applaud your efforts to increase taxes for those who are able to live on less.---Hester Bury
3/2/11 RAPUFATI is a great idea since we all owe this great nation. All the taxes I'll ever pay won't pay for one mile of interstate highway on which I drive so freely. I'm a debtor.--Jim Taylor, President, University of the Cumberlands.
3/1/11 Can I be an honorary member even though I don't qualify for class A or B citizenship? Rapufati is right on! Thank you, ladies, for making us smile and keeping hope alive.---Heidi, Boston
You can have concentrated wealth in the hands of a few, or you can have democracy. You can not have both.--Justice Louis Brandeis
2/25/11 Thank you for chatting with me today and sharing your wisdom - most of all the benefits of posting on RAPUFATI.COM. Keep up the good work!---DFW
Directors Note: We started typing this note at 14.17 pm, Greenwich Mean Time on February 19th, 2011. At that moment the national debt was $14,131,206,399,883.99. Youre share of the debt was $45,515.55.
In the last 5 years, some American citizens have donated over $11 million to the Bureau of the Public Debt. In the last fiscal year they gave over $3 million, the highest total since 1996. The average donation is less than $1,000.00. 1500 people gave $100 or less, but there were 17 gifts of more then $100,000.00 and the biggest was more than $1.5 million.
If you want to contribute you can use a credit card at the website Pay.Gov or write a check to the Bureau of Public Debt, writing on the memo line "a gift to reduce the debt held by the public." At $3 million a year, it would take 4.3 million years to pay off the debt even if there was zero interest. Unfortunately, that's not the case--net interest spending in 2010 was $207 billion.
Some economists think you'd do better to use your credit card for a shopping spree, spend the money and stimulate the economy. In any case, don't get hysterical. Most of this is money we owe ourselves: with more accurate bookkeeping and better public policy, the debt is manageable.
These numbers are from Reuters and NPR.
2/18/11 Mary you gifted me today with a belly shaking laugh! On a serious note, it's the generosity of you and other philanthropic minded individuals that has enabled Little Brothers to carry out its mission for over 51 years. The RAPUFATI website has already been circulated to a few of my colleagues. I will share it with the Board members of Little Brothers. Happy Birthday!---Simone Mitchell-Peterson
2/17/11 What a great website. Sign me up --I want to be a proud member of RAPUFATI! PS I too am cranky!---Cecilia Straney
2/14/11 President Obama has just announced that he will eliminate tax cuts on the wealthy in 2013. Why wait? Getting rid of the Bush tax cuts would raise billions in revenue and reduce the deficit. Why put off until tomorrow a billion you could collect today?---Grandma Gotalott.
2/11/11 What I love about Rapufati and its founding mothers, is that they not only want to support their country by sharing their legacy, they generously give to non-profit organizations helping those in need. This organization literally puts its money where its mouth is! We should all be so smart and caring. Bravo!---Julie Yurko
2/10/11 What a fantastic use of humor and perfectly good sense. I am on my way now to the Cadillac dealership so that I can have a bumper to place my sticker on.---Scott Melton
2/2/11 Mark Twain said, "Against the assault of laughter, nothing can stand," and you ladies seem to think you can make people laugh themselves into common sense about taxation. I doubt it. The Federal budget deficit is not a laughing matter. Since higher income and estate taxes for the super rich could cut the deficit in half, stop laughing and get tough. Tell Congress to act ASAP---John Q from Jersey
1/26/11 My husband says you people are trying to ferment a revolution. Is this true?---Helen Highwater, IL
1/25/11 Director's Note: On January 22nd The Economist (a magazine) published a special report on "The Few"--the global rich. With numbers from sources like the Credit Suisse (a bank) "Global Wealth Report." They counted up 24.2 million international millionaires or .05% of the worlds adult population. 41% of them live in the US. 3% live in China. We don't know how it works in China, but our millionaires inherit it or marry it or win the lottery or work for one of the 456 largest publicly quoted companies that pay chief execs a median salary of $7.23 million dollars. The CEO of Liberty Media (a cable TV company) made $87,095,882.00. Pretty soon you're talking real money.
1/24/11 The State of the Unions Speech: In an hour long report to the Nation, President Obama touched on a subject of concern to RAPUFATI members - a tax on the richest 2% of our citizens. For many of us this is an obvious necessity in the face of a continuing budget deficit. For others it is a moral imperative: the wealthiest should pay more taxes then the less fortunate. The congress should enact equitable taxation in 2011.
1/24/11 Love this initiative! Reminds me of a couple of my favorite quotes! "what lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us." Ralph Waldo Emerson. "We make a living by what we get, we make a life by what we give." Sir Winston Churchill.---Erin McElroy, IL
1/24/11 As a man who know little about money and has even less, I fully support the Robin Hood Tax movement. He who has everything needs nothing, he who has nothing needs everything, and he who cares about another shall have everything.----Steven Main, IL
1/20/11 Raise the debt ceiling? Sure, why not? We can always borrow money to live large, fight wars, and avoid a tax increase. Just pass the debt on to our kids. They are too young to vote. ---Flag Waver, IL
1/14/11 I'm hoping that years from now, when political scientists try to understand how humankind finally started to appreciate government services and the fact that the services must be funded to exist, these academics will follow the trail back to the early days of RAPUFATI, which helped create the groundswell of good sense it took to make it happen. Go RAPUFATI, go!---Becky Liebman, WA
1/12/11 We seem to have come up short on the high incomes income tax proposal that was on the ballot last year in our state - initiative 1098. But on the other hand, we have the best state estate tax in the country, thanks to the work of Bill Gates Sr. and others in 2005. So we go forward and backward. Must keep our noses to the grindstone to go forward again.---John Burbank, Washington
1/11/11: Outside looking in: still trying to get where you are, ladies, but does wit and good humor advance this cause? TEA has energy, vitriol and sizable dose of irrationality going for it: where do you come off attempting reasoned discussion? This is a war, with government taking a beating as a sidelined player right now. Dems ushered in the last budget surplus - Repubs will say that their Congress - WHATEVER! We had a tax rate of over 20% of GDP though you won't hear Rep's trumpeting THAT part of the equation! We did WELL at that, but, now, with a rate of around 14% of GDP, we have too large a government?? I say we need a national referendum selecting just what specific government services a majority of us are ready to do without. Cut the pleasantries - take on the Irrationals! And support ANY effort to rewrite our ponderous tax (evasion) code!---Jab Needles, WY
1/10/11 Three college professors (two Yale, one Cornell) want the mega-rich to calculate the value of their tax cuts and contribute that amount to a charity of their choice. Their website is Give It Back for Jobs--one way to share the wealth. Check it out.---Big Spender, CA
1/10/11: You remember I wrote to you in October and suggested means testing for Social Security. I know lots of people think that is an outrageous idea, but on "Meet the Press", on January 2, Senator Lindsey Graham (Republican, South Carolina) talked about it. Pretty brave of him! Can you print part of his statement? ---Thanks, Mrs. Robinson
Reply: Here it is:
SENATOR LINDSEY GRAHAM "The Debt Commission report is a bipartisan document that we should all look at. It's about flattening our tax code, increasing the age eligibility for Medicare and Social Security. Upper income Americans should have their Social Security benefits means tested simply because we don't have enough money to keep Social Security without changes.
HOST DAVID GREGORY; "You think Republicans are prepared to follow you---
SENATOR GRAHAM; "I would vote to make sure that people at my income level would have Social Security benefits renegotiated if they are under 55, not in a Draconian way, but changes that we can make now to avoid a fiscal collapse that is surely coming.
1/4/11:Three cheers for RAPUFATI! Activism withe a sense of humor - just what the doctor ordered after such a dreary December. Sharing your website with my allies on the Left. THANK YOU.---Courtney Brown
Here are some of your postings from 2010
We have deleted: all references to Glen Beck, Brussels sprouts and the Chicago Cubs; also some Director's Notes and, unhappily, information about S.3533, The Responsible Estate Tax Act which of course, expired with the 111th congress. It's quite possible that, in the editing process we unintentionally deleted some witty comments.
We welcome your future witticisms.
I love point number 4. What a positive and grateful attitude toward giving back to our country--Julie NIFB, Illinois
I like to pay taxes. With them I buy civilization. --Oliver Wendell Holmes
Your website cracked me up. We all need a good laugh. I will share your website with the Jeannette Rankin Foundation. They will appreciate its wit and wisdom.--Sue Lawrence, Georgia
Member's Inquiry: I want to enjoy the Rapufati fellowship if you can assure me that your Class A members are the real upper crust, the creme de la creme. How many millionaires, multimillionaires, and billionaires are there in the US?
Director's Reply: According to the Huffington Post, there were 7.8 million American households with a net worth of one million dollars in 2009. This was a 17% increase over the previous year. There were 980,000 Ultra High Net Worth individuals with assets of five million dollars or more (reported by the Spectrum Group). According to Forbes, there are 403 billionaires.
Please sign me up as a Class B member. I am eager to meet some excessively wealthy single men. --Felicia Andresen, Indiana
I applaud the RAPUFATI pledge "to be taxed so that our government can fulfill its constitutional obligations and legislative mandates." So much needs to be done to educate our children, provide health care for all, convert to a clean energy economy, preserve a healthy environment, and create a safer world free of nuclear weapons. We now have a government committed committed to those goals. Lets each according to our ability, each according to our means, through rational tax policy, support those goals. Thank you RAPUFATI members!--Peter Wilk, Physicians for Social Responsibility
A refreshing new approach that embraces true patriotism and humanity. Cheers! --Joe Novak, California
Thanks for sharing your very humorous RAPUFATI. I, for one, would like very much to become a member. --Mary Boyle, VP Communications for Common Cause
Taxes are dues that we pay for the privileges of living in an organized society. --F.D.R.
Government is the peoples business and every man woman and child becomes a shareholder with the first penny of tax paid.--Ronald Reagan
We need to stop taxing people after death. No taxation without respiration!--Steve King
I cant wait to join your movement! It's a refreshing sign to have a group of people, concerned people that GET IT! I will be following your movement. Should something come up, Please contact me! ---J. Jones
I'm class B having GREAT expectations. I like not having to go to meetings and will definitely speak up when I am at the bar at the country club. Always love a good laugh.---Cathy A, IL
I don't mind paying but the paper work is too complicated and time consuming. There must be a simpler way to do it.--Inky
Director's Data: In 2009 the estate tax rate was effectively 45%, but most of those taxed paid about 19%. In 2007 the IRS estimated that Americans owed about $345 billion more then they paid, which was about 14% of federal revenue for that fiscal year. RAPUFATI is committed to a more rational tax policy and a simpler process, but let's be grown up about this. Taxation is a complicated subject and ours is a complicated economy. Obtaining enough government revenue to support essential government services depends on the comprehension, cooperation and honesty of the American people.
Get over your taxophobia. There is no free lunch. If you want the government services you need and depend upon every day, they have to be paid for. You are not being mugged by your government, you are being served and protected.--Dr. Douglas Amy, Mt. Holyoke College, Massachusetts.
Although I can't qualify for membership, under Class A and really have no expectations of qualifying under Class B, I'd like to provide you with a list of people -- neighbors, business associates, family members -- who I think should be taxed at a higher rate and (as patriots, individuals who love their country) would be happy to pay. Although I can't join the group, I'd like to hang out with you sometimes. Maybe I could park your car at the club, or bring you drinks?---Barry Karr, NY
Thanks for representing a view based on reality. I am so tired of the crazy thinking we are bombarded with daily. Have you sent Warren Buffet a message?--Susan F., IL
Oh goodie, another organization! Will there be a secret hanshake? Any kind of gang colors? How about a jazzy logo, or discounts at golf courses? Lord knows the concept of money and taxes is a fundamental requirement for successful governing. Count me in. Let the rich pay. ---N.F., IL
My husband read your announcement and the links you posted. He says you people are a bunch of bleeding heart liberals and your so-called humor is a cover for socialist propaganda, Is this true?--Helen Highwater, IL
My goodness, Mrs. Highwater, your husband sounds rather dyspeptic, He should have less caffein and Glenn Beck and more outdoor exercise.---B.H.L.
I have been a supporter of United for a Fair Economy for several years and I agree with your views on taxation, ---Betty Phillips.
Who's behind this? Very interesting, I support the idea,--Kat Liebman, Oregon
I believe in a graduated inheritance tax on big fortunes, properly safeguarded against evasion and increasing rapidly in amounts with the size of the estate,--Theodore Roosevelt
The growing disposition to tax more and more heavily large estates that are left at death is a cheering indication of the growth of a salutory change in public opinion. Of all the forms of taxation this seems the wisest. Men who continue hoarding great sums all their lives should be made to feel that the community, in the form of the state, can not thus be deprived of its proper share. By taxing heavily at death, the state mark its condemnation of the selfish millionaire's unworthy life. --Andrew Carnegie 1889
Give me that tax increase ASAP!--Lorna G., ILlinois
Thanks to you two intelligent women for using your sense of humor in creating and hosting this forum!--Janeen Kooi, IN
I love this website and the good humor. What a different mood this brings up. Thank You, Lindsay
Rapufati Rocks! You go girls. There's a bunch of us with you all the way! ---Josie H.
If a man works hard all his life and earns millions and wants to leave his fortune to his kids, where do you get off to tax the money away when he dies? ---Wally Wallette
Director's Reply: Well, that loving papa provided generously for the kids while they were growing up. When he passed away, he left an estate of , say $25 million. After an exemption of $3.5 million dollars, S.3533 would tax that estate at 50% and those kiddies would be multi millionaires without ever having worked a day or earned a dollar. Perhaps those tots would be willing to share with some kids who were not that lucky. Rapufati hopes so.
Great!! Made me laugh and while I'm laughing, I'm hopeful. For those wondering what to do while waiting for reform, feel free to send a donation to your local social service agency that's trying to make it without state funding. ---Jane F.
Please accept my application for Class B Membership ( I am ever hopeful) and my thanks for creating a website that is both entertaining and thoughtful. ---Terry L. IL
The idea of estate taxes a way to "spread it around some" is great, and should make sense to anyone who has visited French chateau country or who has seen how, in places like Mexico, family wealth is allowed to roll-up land for generations. The right wing has rebranded estate tax as "death tax", to demonize the idea and stoke opposition to it. The left needs to respond with its own rebranding. What would that be? Maybe the "Fueling the American Dream" tax, or the "seeds of our Prosperous Future tax, We gotta change the name to gain support for the concept.---Tom L, IL
Please raise my taxes! We are pushing a huge debt off to our children. I do not think our police, firefighters, mayors, librarians teachers, etc., should have to work for low wages while the top 2 percent of our citizens enjoy very huge profits benefitting from others' sacrifices.---Deb Martin, IL
I always love a good laugh. Thank you for introducing me to your website. I applaud your allegiance. Looks like you have gotten a lot of postings in the short six months. I will pass the site on to a few colleagues for their enjoyment----Carl Johann
This is a great idea --funny, original, and meaningful. Recognition of responsibility -- it's such a novel notion, it may catch on. In a fit of unwarranted optimism, I'll apply for Class B membership.--Ronald Lindsay
Are you two related to each other? And are either or both of you gay? Just wondering. --Tanya Taxpayer, Chicago
I loved the website. Point 4 is such a well put summary - people who get the most out of a system should give the most back to it! I'll share with others. I also recommend quickly writing a theme song.--Zeke Spier
Bravo! There is too little good news to combat the media-fueled negativity that focuses on tea-partiers and the anti-government radio rants. Thanks for the smiles! Rapufati - once i figured out how to spell it is a breath of fresh air.--Lisa Haderlein
As of now (September 2010) Warren Buffett and Bill Gates have persuaded 38 other billionaires to sign The Giving Pledge, promising to give away at least half of their wealth. Bless their hearts! Before you read on, stop and say these words out loud: "One billion dollars is one thousand million dollars--ONE THOUSAND MILLION." And of course many of the 400 US billionaires are multi-billionaires. Wikipedia names all the names, and how they got it; the easiest way is to inherit it, which their kids will, unless and until Congress enacts a rational tax policy. --Citizen Candy
Love your website. Thanks for the laughs.--Cathy Raphael
This is more fun then a barrel of Libertarians.--Ima Fan
Sad news! : A new AP/GIK poll reveals that 44% opposed raising taxes on high earners. Only 39% support President Obama's plan to repeal tax cuts for those making more then $200,000.00, while 15% think the tax cuts should lapse for everyone. The numbers suggest that President Obama's plan to selectively reinstate higher taxes on the rich may not meet with the populist support democrats are hoping for." Whats wrong with our country?--Bruce Otto, IL
I just love how intelligent and hilarious this irreverent website is. And I love this movement. Will endeavor to share beyond illinois! Posting on facebook soon.--Nancy
Director's Note: The Senate Switch board offers great service. Call (202) 224-3121 and get a real live person, no press one - press two, no waiting. Ask for your senator and be immediately connected to the courteous staffer who will take your message, ask for your zip code, and thank you for calling. Two minutes of your time and you can enjoy the glow of participatory citizenship.
Yes, when the government needs money it should go to those who've got it. Despite the financial crisis, the number of millionaires in the US rose a whopping 16% to 7.8 million in 2009. They earn more - in 1950 the ratio of the average executives paycheck to the average workers paycheck was 30-to-1;that ratio has exploded to between 300 to 500-to-1. They keep more of what they earn. They own more, like 85% of all US stocks. They inherit more. So they should pay more income and estate taxes. Tell your congressman.--Calamity Jane
While you are at it: how about means testing for Social Security? With the government in dire financial straights, why should hundreds of billionaires and thousands of millionaires be cashing monthly government checks? Social Security was conceived as an insurance program, OASDI, Old Age Survivors and Disabilities Insurance. If you buy fire insurance but never have a fire, you don't expect to get the premiums back do you? So why should super rich people whose old age is well provided for collect social security?---Mrs. Robinson
Good heavens ladies! What are you smoking?----Ken F.
10/12/10 This link is interesting, fun and though provoking. Glad to see you are still gigging in politics. Seeing the posting dates would be fun, too. ---BJ Frantz, IL
Director's Note: Great idea, BJ. We'll do it!
10/12/10 There is a great line from a hit show - "Money is like manure; it's not worth a thing unless it's spread around, encouraging young things to grow." I don't fit in either of your categories, but am glad there are some in class A who are in favor of encouraging growth. Thanks for this site and the humor used to address this issue.---Janeen, Indiana
10/22/10 I am 60, cranky at times (like when I read the description of your club) and by no means in the same league as Warren Buffett. I admire clarity of thought delivered with an advanced sense of humor. Thank you Mary and Kristina for delivering on both of those qualities.--Paul Logi, IL
10/23/10 Right on Rapufati! It's extremely refreshing to read. Most of the politicians in this election year are falling over themselves to cut government spending at the expense of citizens on the lowest end of the economic totem pole. Very few speak about the need to --pardon the expression--tax the rich. If they do--they merely give lip service. So--Hooray for Rapufati in it's endeavor to expose the hypocrisy of the fools from both political parties--not only the tea party people--but our so called liberal friends who are trying to outdo themselves displaying their conservative credentials, Warm regards to all.--Howard Gressey, DisarmEducation.org
11/6/10 Yes, we need an estate tax, but how do you expect to get one from a Congress that includes 237 millionaires (before the last election) the richest is Rep. Darryl Issa (D-Cal) Sen. Herb Kohl and Sen. John Kerry (D Mass) are next in line. Will you have their votes?---Hy Roller, IL
11/8/10 Go Rapufati!---Chuck Collins, Inst. for Policy Studies, Washington DC
11/8/10 Thanks for directing me and others to your website. I'll make sure to route it to others in the PDF community. you help to lift up the national priorities and provide e-space for a wider progressive voice.--Rudy Santiago, Peace Development Fund, MA
11/10/10 There's a lot of truth here. Sign me up!----John Small, IL
11/10/10 Allen Simpson and Erskine Bowles co-chairs of the National Comission on Fiscal Responsibility and Reform released their draft report early, so Teabaggers and Fox news (?) people will have a couple of weeks to rant while commisioners consider it. I don't know if it will ever reach legislaters for further debate, but I hope Congress will let the bush cuts on estate taxes expire as they are supposed to do at the end of the year. Some experts think that resonable taxation of thousands of multi millionaires and hundreads of billionaires would cut the deficit in half. --Satin Doll, IL
11/17/10 I'm with KHC, Illinois remain ever hopeful that my rich auntie...wherever she is...will leave me fat and happpy, and/or one of my obscure inventins hits it big. Till then--count me in!---Leeann Atwood
11/30/10 This is hysterical Mary. Only you and Kristina could be this witty and smart! I am enjoying the posts and I definitely favor a saner tax system.--Tina H., Illinois
11/30/10 I hope this lame duck Congressional session will 1) extend unemployment benefits and 2) eliminate the Bush tax cuts on upper incomes. This would be a fiscal wash and not increase the deficit. I've got my fingers crossed.--Miss Muffet
12/1/10 Love the mission of your organization and will consider myself a member unless there is some initiation ceremony or activity I should perform before I can speak out as an official member. In the meantime I will promote your website and views to the best of my ability.--Deloris Manny
12/8/10 Bless you both! I love Rapufati's honesty, its forthrightness, its gratitude, its humanity. With much admiration,--- Billy Siegenfelt, JRJP, IL
12/17/10 "Compromise" tax bill? Well, friends, it looks like we lost this round. I hope all the Congresspeople who voted against rational tax policy enjoy their very expensive eggnog. Sign me up for 2011.---Baritone Bob, Nevada
