Krauthammer Supports Increased Taxes

Satan must be shopping for a winter parka. When one of the great advocates of "No New Taxes" argues for a $2 increase in gasoline taxes then snow drifts must surely be piling up against Hell's Gate.

In today's WashPost, Charles Krauthammer recommends a massive tax increase on gas. He's right (God, I hate saying that). Tax policy is the simplest, most direct way to promote conservation and fuel efficiency. When it costs $10,000 a year to drive a Hummer even the most simple-minded NASCAR gearhead will think twice about buying a hybrid.

Taxing gasoline is a better way to accomplish the goal of fuel economy than the hopelessly complex and deliberately ineffective CAFE standards. If the tax money is used to decrease payroll taxes and improve public transit it will have an overall positive effect on the nation.

Of course, if we had done this 25 years ago like the Europeans we wouldn't be in the shitpile we are now. If George Bush the Elder, Newt Gingrich, and George Bush the Lesser had ever advocated an intelligent tax policy the nation would be far better off. And I'd wager a full tank of gas that if President Obama suggests taxing gas in 2009 Krauthammer will throw a conniption fit. Still, good idea, Chuck, hope you remember it.