No Taxation without... Politicization?

"State tax policy has tossed its hat into the political boxing ring. A recent study by Americans for Tax Reform (ATR) found that, over the last 25 years, fear of losing office has driven state politicians away from unrestrained tax hikes and toward cautious tax cuts during times of economic growth.

Regrettably, this penchant for cuts has not coincided with real action to reduce spending. To keep coffers full, therefore, states have employed targeted tax increases on items such as tobacco and alcohol, thus collecting revenue while insulating politicians from the wrath of the larger voting bloc.

Those states continuing to impose heavy tax burdens have witnessed the evacuation of their residents to more tax-friendly states, forcing politicians to embrace tax relief as a requisite campaign issue or risk involuntary return to private life. Sadly, such fiscal two-stepping will remain the norm as elected officials continue to dance between budget and ballot box."

From: The Patriot