I am in favor of taxes – the simpler the better. Unfortunately, today’s tax laws are dead weight to the economy and detract from designing, manufacturing and producing goods and services that can be sold to each other and to other nations. Instead of productive efforts that create wealth we struggle under the burdens of a tax code that is overwhelming and unfairly stacked in favor of special interest groups. When we hear of lower taxes it often means low taxes for one group but high taxes for another. The tax laws are also stuffed with bias. Why do we think it is fair to tax one person at a 35% rate and another at 15%? Our current tax law punishes those who are highly successful; those who are industrious and create jobs. A flat tax is inherently more fair and easier to administer, enforce and to pay. All can pay their fair share and contribute to the protection of our property, lives and personal freedoms. These are protections that are written in the Constitution and should be paid for by every working citizen. Taxation without representation is another practice that must be eliminated. This is frequently labeled as "pork". As an example, if the State of Louisiana, Florida or New York has special projects that need funding for their citizens, then the people of that State should pay for the project and carry the tax burden. Each State should pay for their own special projects instead of placing that burden upon the shoulders of neighboring States or the nation at large. This is consistent with the principle of self-reliance and will greatly reduce the politicking and infighting that happens in our government. Federal responsibilities such as border protection or interstate commerce should continue to be taxed and managed at the Federal level; however, pork belly projects are simply taxation without representation or worse - a payoff for votes on proposed legislation. 