The Big Picture

I think that taxes are a necessary part of living in a country like the United States of America where social programs and government funding create a melting pot culture that attempts to address the needs of many. Like the saying goes, "Nothing is certain but death and taxes", so now we must find a balance that works with this lookout in mind. However, first I would like to point out that any solution proposed here is made with limited knowledge of the subject, thus I am unable to firmly stand behind any proposal reached at this point - although the quote above does reflect my view.
First off, I would recommend to the President that a progressive tax be kept in place - the rich are taxed at a higher percentage. My reasoning for this is that this nation allows the near limitless growth of wealth for companies, and through them individuals, provided they have the right tools. I highly doubt these individulas are even capable of spending all their money solely on themselves; they owe the system, which in part educated their workers and provided them services, like highways and health care, which allowed them to focus on the company and not the dangers of a next meal or child's cost of college. Also, it is wise to not let these successful people gain too much power, as this is a democracy and the government should respond to the people, not the wealthy individual who can control international assets worth billions and hold great influence - all factors in political power. Additionally, the rich can sustain the higher taxes and do not live in fear of financial collapse as long as they are responsible. Indeed, it is the irresponsibility of the US government that has led to a $16 trillion deficit, and I would recommend the federal budget be reduced in response to this. We can not live beyond our means, and the mistakes of the past must be payed, even if it is difficult at first; we can try to implement a long-term solution that may lessen the blow to the system however.