Victor Davis Hanson on 'Tax Me More' Virtue Signaling and Blue State Economics

Critique of Wealthy Tax Proposals

• 💡 Victor Davis Hanson criticizes wealthy individuals like Tommy Styer and Mitt Romney for publicly stating they want to be taxed more.
• 💰 Hanson argues this is a form of virtue signaling and fake magnanimity, as the proposed tax increases are insignificant compared to their vast fortunes.
• 🎯 He suggests that instead of grand pronouncements, these individuals could simply open foundations or pay their taxes at the income tax rate, rather than capital gains.

Economic Disparities and 'Blue State' Model

• ⚠️ Hanson highlights the disparity between the wealthy elite and working-class individuals trying to make ends meet, like those earning $80,000 and struggling to buy a house.
• 📉 He points to Joel Cotkin's analysis that the 'blue state' model (e.g., California, Massachusetts, Illinois, New York) is imploding, with millions leaving annually due to high taxes, regulations, and lack of opportunities.
• 🏠 The current policies in these states are described as pulling up the ladder for younger generations, limiting job and housing prospects.

Media and Economic Reporting

• 📰 Hanson criticizes the news division of publications like the Wall Street Journal for their perceived bias, often hiring journalists from liberal outlets.
• 📊 He notes that despite positive economic news, such as falling inflation and strong job growth (especially from legal employment), the media narrative often focuses on negative aspects or political attacks.
• ⏳ This selective reporting, he suggests, involves digesting good news over the weekend and then spinning it negatively by Monday.

Empathy and Political Parties

• 💔 Hanson reflects on the Republican party, suggesting that figures like Bob Dole, John McCain, and Mitt Romney have historically lacked empathy for the working middle class.
• 💰 He contrasts this with the idea that wealthy individuals could simply choose not to make more money or invest less aggressively to alleviate their perceived guilt about wealth accumulation.