White House contender stokes tax controversy

Texas governor and Republican presidential contender Rick Perry draws criticism over plans for “flat tax”.

Rick Perry

 

A new tax plan by US presidential aspirant Rick Perry is being criticised for benefiting the rich at the expense of the poor.

Perry is not the only one promising financial reform. All the Republicans vying for the presidency are trying to court the party’s right-wing base even as the 2012 race is only beginning.

Republicans who want a blanket 20 per cent tax for all US citizens are in sharp contrast with President Obama’s plan that favours a tax increase on wealthy Americans, closing corporate tax loopholes and ending subsidies for US oil and gas companies.

Al Jazeera’s Kimberly Halkett reports from Washington.

Source: Al Jazeera