The American government has struggled with the issue of taxes and budgeting for over one hundred years. Class conflicts, opposing political parties, and convoluted economic philosophies have given rise to a never-ending debate over taxation. The New York Times article, “Senate Panel Vote Backs Budget Plan,” from June 1993, discusses current sentiments at the time regarding the budget and taxation. Additionally, the article mentions factors such as the Democratic-Republican debate, trickle-down economics, and high versus low taxes for the middle class. The issues discussed in this 1993 article differ only slightly from today's tax debate. However, now, in 2011, we face a budget crisis that threatens the economy and the American way of life. As a result, the United States needs a solution to the current bureaucratic backstop that prevents lasting progress. The June 1993 New York Times article discusses the debate between Republicans and Democrats over the budget issue. Democrats, staying true to their ideology, supported tax increases for the rich, while the poor received tax cuts. They also proposed a series of spending cuts that would reduce the budget deficit by $508 billion over five years. In 1993, Republicans were the minority in Congress and thus were unable to implement many of their ideas. As a result, they opposed Democratic ideas on taxation and spending cuts. Republicans wanted lower taxes on the wealthy and said the spending cuts were not based on factual calculations. The debate between the two parties occurred due to their contrasting economic, political and moral philosophies. Republicans support lower taxes on the rich because of a theory k…… middle of paper……. Furthermore, the American people traditionally expect low taxes and a multitude of services for their benefit. These services have a high cost that the current tax system cannot support; therefore, sacrifices must be made to achieve a balanced budget. The various problems that prevent the creation of a solution to the budget problem have not yet made an impact on the American public. However, with each passing day, the debt increases and confidence in the American system decreases. Europe in recent months has shown the dangers of having an out-of-control deficit. While the United States has an excellent track record when it comes to adversity and crisis, a solution needs to be found before a crisis forms. The current problem requires the support of the American people and politicians, and sacrifice and compromise are vital parts of any meaningful solution.