Why Billionaires Get the Best Tax Breaks

The Takeaway

There’s a reason car accidents spike by 6 percent on tax day: filing one’s taxes is stressful. On Monday, as millions of Americans put the finishing touches on their tax paperwork, Senate Republicans blocked debate on the so-called “Buffett Rule.” It would have required the wealthiest Americans to pay at least 30 percent of their income in federal taxes. The rule was inspired by Warren Buffett’s secretary, who pays a higher tax rate than her billionaire boss. Bob Hennelly, senior reporter for WNYC has been investigating the tax rates of another billionaire with some tax policy suggestions: New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg.

Do you support journalism that strengthens our democracy?

At The World, we believe strongly that human-centered journalism is at the heart of an informed public and a strong democracy. We see democracy and journalism as two sides of the same coin. If you care about one, it is imperative to care about the other.

Every day, our nonprofit newsroom seeks to inform and empower listeners and hold the powerful accountable. Neither would be possible without the support of listeners like you. If you believe in our work, will you give today? We need your help now more than ever!