Just because you're in charge of the IRS doesn't mean you know anything everything. Doug Shulman was on C-SPAN over the weekend (we're sure you saw it) and admitted that he uses a tax preparer. His rationale is, "Look, I'm a busy dude, I don't have time to do my own taxes. Besides, have you seen the size of the tax code? It's a flippin' mind job." Or in his own words:
"I've used one for years. I find it convenient. I find the tax code complex so I use a preparer," Shulman said. Pressed on how he would make the tax code simpler, Shulman responded, "I don't write the tax laws. Congress writes the tax laws so that's a whole different discussion."
Unapologetic as usual, Dougie. We'll give him credit though – admitting that the tax code that you're in charge of enforcing is too complex is admirable (although not a news flash). Plus, he goes so far to say that he's powerless to do anything about it. Now that's transparent government!
IRS commissioner doesn't file his own taxes [The Hill]
To trigger job growth, Gingrich proposed to cut the U.S. corporate tax rate from 35 percent to 12.5 percent, a deeper cut than some other Republican politicians have offered. He would extend income tax cuts that expire in 2013, which were the subject of a pitched battle late last year when President Barack Obama tried to let tax reductions for wealthier Americans expire. And he would completely eliminate the capital gains tax on stock profits. Gingrich, proposed that the country move toward an optional flat tax for Americans of 15 percent, and strengthen the dollar by returning to “Reagan-era monetary policies,” and reform the Federal Reserve to promote transparency. [