Why (some) Republicans want a national sales tax

The Fair Tax Act, explained

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Is America ready for a national sales tax? Rep. Earl L. "Buddy" Carter (R-Ga.) has introduced the Fair Tax Act, a bill in Congress that would eliminate most federal taxes and replace them with a sales tax on goods and services. A so-called "consumption tax" deserves support because it "simplifies our tax code," says Rep. Bob Good (R-Va.). But Democrats like Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (N.Y.) say Carter's bill would actually raise taxes on "90 percent of the American people." What is the case for a consumption tax? And does it have a chance of actually becoming reality? Here's everything you need to know:

What is the Fair Tax Act?

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Joel Mathis, The Week US

Joel Mathis is a freelance writer who has spent nine years as a syndicated columnist, co-writing the RedBlueAmerica column as the liberal half of a point-counterpoint duo. His work also regularly appears in National Geographic, The Kansas City Star and Heatmap News. His awards include best online commentary at the Online News Association and (twice) at the City and Regional Magazine Association.