Another issue came up last night on O’Reilly during his interview with John Edwards. Edwards claimed he wanted to cut taxes, and O’Reilly jumped back. “You mean you want people like me to carry the load.” They both then agreed they were among the top earners in this country, and that the tax burden falls on the backs of people like themselves.
Edwards’ thesis is, however, that people like him and O’Reilly owe something back because they’ve realized the benefits of our society and economic system. Both talked about their “humble beginnings” and how they worked hard to get where they are today. And they agreed that this country provides the environment where someone can do just that.
But they both agree that anyone who works hard and succeeds owes support to those who don’t.
This is the typical argument of class warfare. If Bill O’Reilly and John Edwards can work hard and become millionaires, and that success is due to the American system, why do they owe support to those who fail to take advantage of the same system? “Not everyone has the same opportunity.” Really? Is there anyone in this country who cannot get access to an education? Is there anyone in this country who cannot leave a city with no jobs for one that has them? Is there anyone in this country who can’t take a job in a fast-food restaurant or convenience store in an effort to learn the basics of business before starting a business of their own?
No, an entry level job doesn’t pay enough to support a family. But, by definition, it is a beginning, which means there must be a further goal. It is all about choices. Those who make it big took big chances. Many of them fail three and four times before achieving the success they were after.
I’ve known and worked for several millionaires. They all worked hard. Very hard. For some reason, people who ain’t got blame those that got. They need to look in the mirror.