Demonizing rich won't solve our problems

In November, we will have the opportunity to vote on a referendum called the "Illinois Fair Tax."

The logic used to sell this plan to the public is the rich really don't need all of their money and since they probably acquired their money by nefarious ways, it's OK to tax them more. It is the logical progression of the thinking that the rich really didn't build it. Since they didn't build it, they shouldn't have it and the government should take it away from them.

The less fortunate are portrayed as victims of the hateful, mean-spirited rich to be rescued by the compassionate and fair minded government. Think the legend of Robin Hood, taking from the rich to give to the poor. However, demonizing the rich isn't going to solve anything.

Public pensions are the real issue, or should I say the lack of funding for those pensions is the real issue. A tweak here and there will buy some time but won't solve anything.

Changing the state constitution concerning public pensions is the answer. The Democrats in Springfield had no problem changing the constitution to take more of our money but won't make the change that would actually solve the problem. In other words, Democrats know what needs to be done but refuse to do it. Remember that when you vote this year.

John Malec

Bensenville