It didn't help.
This graph, constructed by the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities (CBPP) using Congressional Budget Office (CBO) data tells a startling tale. I know that all of us here can intelligently consider the implications of this data, but I'd like to lay it out in plain terms just to drive home the point.
- While the wealthiest fifth have (successfully) thrown their money behind anti-taxation messages they've also successfully secured enormous gains in income (aided in the Bush presidency, no doubt, by deregulation and financial speculation).
- At the same time, they've managed to consistently squash the idea of "class warfare" (when brought up in the context of poor vs. rich) without the general public questioning where the topic even came from.
- Finally, they've managed to provide 80% of Americans enough token economic benefit to keep them satiate, leaving them ignorant to their continually diminishing piece of a much larger pie.
Well and truly, the Marxian system is bearing itself out. The emergence of a Bourgeoisie and a Proletariat through means of state and economic control is being realized.
As a young American trying to break into the world, I've noted on several occasions just how difficult it is to obtain property, prosperity, and means of production. While Kristen and I struggle to keep food on the table, millionaires (and beyond) have seen a 51% increase in their income! It is as if they need not make any attempt to hide the iniquity because the collective distraction of the American public is enough to hide the truth.
Call it a conspiracy. Criticize me for evoking Communist rhetoric. If you do, ask yourself: is it really so far-fetched to consider that, in a country that conveniently covers up all flaws under makeup, lights, and grandeur, that what appears to be casually may not be so under the surface?