Americans for Tax Reform today released the following statement from Grover Norquist, president of the group:

“What should taxpayers think about the 'Gang of Six' announcement today?

The Gang of Six ‘plan’ is not written in legislative language.  It is an outline.  It punts many decisions to the Senate Finance Committee.  It deals in ranges rather than specifics.  When it is eventually written down in legislative language and every American can read it, taxpayers will then learn whether the ‘plan’ raises taxes or cuts taxes and seriously reduces spending or fails to mandate spending reductions.  It is a mistake to invest one’s hopes or fears while the ‘plan’ remains unclear and subject to change by a Senate Finance Committee selected by Democratic leader Senator Harry Reid (D-Nev.).

One is reminded of the dangers of pronouncing oneself satisfied with a product before it comes clearly into focus.  Henry VIII was assured by French ambassador Charles de Marillac that Anne of Cleves was tall and slim, ‘of middling beauty, and of very assured and resolute countenance’. 

Best to wait until we can see up close what really is and isn’t there.

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