Day 4,482—Dear Nick Irmen from Lee Summit—

 

Start time: 9:57 a.m.

Weather: Mid 80s, wind 6.7 mi/h, Humidity 76%

     I read your letter in the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, where you attack “liberals” and “their lap dogs” for attacking Amendment 5, which would eliminate property tax and expand all other taxes, so that more taxes will be paid by the poor and middle class compared to now, when those who own the most property pay the most taxes. In your letter, you mention no counterarguments for why Missourians should support Amendment 5. Still, you do attack in general “liberals” and “their lap dogs” for being opposed to an amendment 10 years ago that prohibits expanded taxes on services. Your point is that because they cite this amendment as a reason why Amendment 5 cannot operate as it plans to, they’re somehow in contradiction.

        Nick, are you aware that I could be against a rule prohibiting me from having a swimming pool, even though I enjoy swimming? These facts do not contradict each other. Also, are you suggesting the St. Louis Post-Dispatch represents all “liberals” and “their lap dogs”? First, would it be okay if I assume that all conservatives think like you? Next, I encourage you to reflect on the argument you have made and try to remember whether you came up with it or if you heard it on a podcast. You might have felt that it was a slam-dunk at the time, but it only takes one to think about what you’re saying for it to crumble into incoherency. I encourage others to read your letter (I included it here) and also reflect on your words. It speaks volumes that this is the kind of thing that people who support Amendment 5 are using to shore up support for this clear attempt to take money away from the average person in Missouri and give it to the very rich.