Remember what I've proposed...that modification of tax policy including increased revenues, increased taxes, be a component of a broader program of fiscal reform. That program should include substantial cuts in government spending, entitlements, defense as well as increased taxes. I think that a balanced budget Constitutional amendment could also be a component, so long as it's phased in over a period of time to avoid doing more immediate harm that the long-term good of the idea.

I agree that simply increasing tax revenues will likely have no effect other than increased government spending. That is why increased taxes must only be a part of a broader re-direction of fiscal policy.

I do find it curious that most recognized financial experts have said that our fiscal problem cannot be solved with spending cuts alone, that almost everyone agrees that the wealthiest Americans aren't paying enough in taxes, and that there is a myriad of tax breaks, deductions and benefits that accrue to corporations that don't need them. The public, the wealthy themselves, and various large groups of corporations publicly agree that these changes should be made. But it's only idealogs who continue to refuse such considerations, refusing to even negotiate fiscal reform if it includes any form of revenue increase.

I can ask "why", but I think I know the reason. It's the thousands of lobbyists that keep the money flowing between K Street and the halls of Congress.