Kemp on Tax Cut

With Jack Kemp’s financial disclosure (Sept. 6) we are reminded that the Republicans have nominated a pair of millionaires for the presidency and, not surprisingly, both want a tax cut. Bob Dole has the grace to say that he wants the 15% tax cut in order to promote the economy, but Kemp has the gall to assert: “I tell you what I need--that 15% tax cut.”

This, mind you, from a man who has just disclosed that he is now worth between $5 million and $6 million, and earned almost $7 million in the last three years, primarily on the speakers’ circuit, where his fees ranged up to $25,000 a shot.

America has done well by these two millionaires, both of whom are well able to continue paying their share of the tax load.

ALTON A. LINFORD

Temple City

Once again Kemp shows his identification with the “common man.” After releasing his tax returns that show that he’s worth at least $5 million (primarily from speaking fees because of his employment with big government), he was quoted as saying all he needed now was “that 15% tax cut.”

End run, Jack!

RAYMOND FITZPATRICK

Beverly Hills

Re “Dole, Clinton Duel Over Taxes,” Sept. 3:

The Dole-Kemp tax plan will create more jobs and opportunity. President Reagan’s tax cut resulted in twice the revenue of the Carter administration, despite the significantly lower tax rate. Each American spends or invests his or her own money far better than Washington bureaucrats can.

As for concerns about the federal deficit, Dole has proven his commitment to a balanced budget. Comparisons to the Reagan deficit are not helpful because Reagan’s defense spending was a top priority and other factors (i.e., Democratic Congress) hold more blame than the tax cut.

CHARLES DAVID LAWRENCE

Woodland Hills

At least one big difference has appeared between the Democrats and the Republicans. President Clinton has been vote-buying by promising numerous new benefits, using our tax money minus the federal overhead. Sen. Dole is buying votes by promising to let us keep more of our earnings to donate and spend as we think wise.

AUSTIN H. GALE

Los Angeles