80% of American's Favor Increasing Taxes?

This morning, Obama pulled another amazing number out of the air to try and push support for his tax hikes on the "rich"; you know, those single tax payers making more than $200,000 a year and those marrieds making in excess of $250,000. He said there's no debate because 80% of Americans support raising taxes. Well, not so fast Mr. President! In a Wall Street Journal/NBC poll that was taken earlier this year, it is true that 81% of the respondents said they agree with tax hikes for the rich. But, the rich, in that poll, were those who make over $1 million a year; not the $200,000/$250,000 that Obama keeps yapping about. Once, again, this President is seriously misrepresenting the facts in order to support his position.

While that poll showed strong support for taxes on the ultra-rich, others aren't as definitive. The difference seems to be in how the question is asked.

A recent McClatchy poll indicated that 67% wanted taxes on the rich "if" it meant that cuts in medicare and medicaid could be avoided. Not, hardly the "strong" 80% number that Obama is quoting. And, just this morning, Rasmussen released polling data that showed only 34% want tax hikes; and 55% opposed any.

Obviously in the area of tax hikes, you can "cherry pick" any polling data you can find to support your position. Unfortunately, our president sought fit to find the biggest, outlying cherry he could find. I just love this guy's concept of "transparency" in governing.