Plenty of Americans have taken exception to Grover Norquist’s meddling in the affairs of Congress, but a House Republican has spoken up against the Americans for Tax Reform head and accused the “anti-tax crusader” of improper alliances.
Rep. Frank Wolf, a Republican from Virginia, is one of six House Republicans who have not signed Norquist’s controversial pledge promising not to raise taxes. Wolf says Norquist’s efforts are making discussion of taxes in and of itself nearly impossible:
“Have we really reached a point where one person’s demand for ideological purity is paralyzing Congress to the point that even a discussion of tax reform is viewed as breaking a no-tax pledge?”
Wolf pointed out connections between Norquist and corrupt lobbyist Jack Abramoff as well as Fannie Mae and the lobby for internet gambling. Wolf added:
“Everything must be on the table and I believe how the pledge is interpreted and enforced by Mr. Norquist is a roadblock to realistically reforming our tax code.”
Norquist, however, simplistically defended his anti-tax pledge, insinuating that not signing the pledge is tantamount to promising to raise taxes. He claims:
“It makes the commitment not to raise taxes credible, believable and durable,” he said. “It makes it easier for voters and politicians to understand each other. … If you won’t take the pledge it says I’m hoping to raise taxes whenever I want .”
Norquist says he believes that now is not the time for Republicans to begin working with Democrats to improve the country- he says:
“Everything [after the 2012 election] is going to be renegotiated with a GOP Senate and GOP House and, maybe, a Republican in the White House.”
Do you trust Grover Norquist and his anti-tax agenda?
