NYT: Who’s the real tax and spender?

Sen John McCain (the presumptive Republican nominee for President, for those of you living under a rock) has accused Sen Barack Obama (the presumptive Democratic nominee, for the aforementioned) of planning to enact “the largest single tax increase since World War II.”

Economists of various ideological persuasions, however, view Mr. McCain’s assessment as inaccurate or exaggerated. Some question whether Mr. Obama’s tax plan can even be characterized as an increase. Some also argue that contrary to Mr. McCain’s assertions, the Democrat’s proposals, if enacted, would actually reduce taxes for the middle class.

So how do the economic packages of each candidate actually compare?

According to “the non-partisan Tax Policy Center”:

[U]nder Mr. Obama’s plan, the middle of the middle class, or those earning $37,595 to $66,354, would see taxes cut by $1,042 a year.

Under Mr. McCain’s plan, taxes for people in that category would also fall, but by [only] $319;

So where would the largest cuts come under McCain’s plan?

[T]he largest chunk of the benefits would go to those making $2.8 million a year or more.

Think they need it?

Voting based on taxes?

Those making 2.8 million a year or more should probably vote for John McCain.  Those making less than $250,001 a year should probably vote for Barack Obama.

And what about those of you in the middle?  Take your pick — or maybe throw your vote away on Ralph Nader or Alan Keyes…

[NYT via MSNBC]