Debate is heavy on emotions, short on ideas

THE BALLOT question to repeal the state income tax is good for the citizens of Massachusetts because it is stimulating the thoughts, passions, and emotions of almost everyone. But, oddly, this is where it seems to stop, with just a lot of emotion.

I get the impression that everyone who is trying to defeat Question 1 wants myself and all taxpayers to just keep paying the $7 billion in debt for the Big Dig; the $3.7 million in pensions for the six Turnpike officials who retired before they reached age 55; and the $800 million in reckless debt that the Turnpike Authority has incurred.

What is needed from everyone are new ideas to finance our state. The income tax is oppressive in and of itself because it represents a guaranteed income for more waste. The waste must stop. Government must return more money to the people who actually earn it or November may bring a big surprise to some.

LAWRENCE TUCKER
Hadley