Rick Perry Revives Debate on Flat Taxes

The Takeaway

When Herman Cain introduced his 999 plan, it put him in the spotlight and helped vault him to the top of the polls. It was just a matter of time before another Republican presidential contender offered something similar. Within days, Newt Gingrich proposed a 15 percent flat tax. Now Governor Rick Perry has responded with a flat tax plan of his own. Perry’s plan centers around a 20 percent flat tax, and offers a choice. Taxpayers can either file under the current system, or opt to use Perry’s flat rate. What’s behind Americans’ long-standing fascination with flat tax plans?  New York Times columnist Joe Nocera puts Governor Perry’s plan in context, and Rice University political science professor Paul Brace analyzes what this plan could mean for Perry’s campaign –  and for the country.

Invest in independent global news

The World is an independent newsroom. We’re not funded by billionaires; instead, we rely on readers and listeners like you. As a listener, you’re a crucial part of our team and our global community. Your support is vital to running our nonprofit newsroom, and we can’t do this work without you. Will you support The World with a gift today? Donations made between now and Dec. 31 will be matched 1:1. Thanks for investing in our work!