Hello, DU. I am a libertarian.

[R.Quinn]

4. Hmm...

Why do you feel that way about a flat tax? One thing I know for sure is that our tax code should not be hundreds of pages long. It should be simple enough that a 5th grader can understand it. This would greatly prevent fraud, since fraud would be so easily recognized, not to mention removing the need for government offices such as the IRS. I am not aware of a simpler way to accomplish this than through a flat tax.

As far as minimum wage goes, I figured that would be the climate here. Personally, I have yet to see a positive national report on minimum wages that hasn't lead to any sort of job loss, or any reports that address the new poverty created by those who do end up losing their jobs since employers can no longer afford to pay them. Can you point me in the direction of the data you are referring to?

Background checks are tough for me. At first glance, they make all the sense in the world to me. My only worry is the slippery slope they may present (i.e. whoever has the power to deny or approve gun ownership could theoretically abuse said power for political reasons). For now, I suppose I am okay with them. I do not have a problem with ownership of fully automatic weapons. Ownership of shoulder-fired missiles have never crossed my mind, however. Probably not okay with that.

How far are you willing to take Freedom of Association? If a store owner does not not wish to serve Asians, for example, I believe that should fall under Freedom of Association. (HOWEVER, I would find such a practice to be completely and utterly reprehensible and immoral, not to mention a poor business model, and I would never support such a business with my money). You should be free to associate or NOT associate with whomever you wish, however despicable your views may be.

Lastly, I mention government and marriage because it seems to me that we are asking the wrong questions. The national discussion typically asks "should we legalize gay marriage?" when we SHOULD be asking "why is the government involved in marriage at all?" I have my personal feelings on what a marriage is and what a marriage isn't, but I don't believe the government should be giving ANY extra benefits to married couples one way or the other (hence the flat tax).