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Income Tax and Self-Ownership: A Matter of Principle

By Matthew Hayward


Madam Speaker, distinguished colleagues, and fellow legislators, I rise before you today on behalf of my constituents who have expressed their concerns regarding the issue of income tax. As their representative, it is my duty to ensure that their perspectives are taken into account and that their deeply held principles are given the consideration they deserve.


Some of my constituents hold the belief that an income tax suggests the state has ownership over its citizens and possesses the authority to determine how much of their hard-earned income they are allowed to keep. They argue that this concept bears a concerning resemblance to slavery, as it infringes upon the fundamental right to self-ownership.


I understand that this may be a contentious viewpoint. Still, it is crucial that we, as legislators, listen to the concerns of all citizens, regardless of whether or not we personally agree with them. In doing so, we uphold the democratic principles that our great nation was founded upon.


While calls for adjusting the income tax rate or percentage seem like a feasible compromise for some, for those who believe the concept of income tax is an affront to their core values, no adjustment will suffice. It is not merely a matter of numbers or percentages but an issue of principle and individual liberty.


Therefore, I urge my esteemed colleagues to engage in open-minded dialogue and debate as we seek alternative solutions that align with the beliefs and values of a free society. We must seek to work together to create policies that truly represent the best interests of the people we serve.


In conclusion, Madam Speaker and fellow legislators, let us not simply focus on compromising on rates or percentages but instead strive to find solutions that respect and honor the deeply held principles of our constituents. Through respectful, open-minded dialogue, we can build a society that respects individual liberty and fosters an environment where all citizens can thrive.


Thank you, Madam Speaker and fellow legislators, for your time and attention to this critical matter.




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Location: Olympia, WA, USA

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