Keep in mind that when discussing "tax rates" to not mix the apples and oranges and watermelons.

The part that always seems to be left out of the discussion is what exactly is being taxed.

While the average tax payer usually refers to the tax they pay on wages....the wealthy do not rely on wages. Hence the rate are not comparable.

The other point that is often omitted when discussing a wealthy persons possible lower rate....the other important detail is the amount paid. Some may have a lower than another rate and pay much, much more in taxes.