I don't know if Couls fits in the category of 'rich' or somewhere in the middle class. Thats his business, not mine. However, I am middle class and I do know that I pay 40+% tax of my income too and that shit doesn't float. Fact is, if your household has an income of less than 250k annually, you're still middle class. That is a grey figure, but based on general definition of middle class.
I can't point to Republicans or Democrats and see an easy answer when it comes down to who is going to strengthen, or overburden the middle class. Republicans like to reward the uppercrust and Democrats have had a long tenure of placing the tax burden on everyone above the poverty line. In the US the middle class comprises by far the largest percentage of our population. That is where consumerism is strongest and where our economy flourishes. Most of those considered rich, started in the middle class and still rely on its health to support their industry and investments. If the government does not continue to promote this 'sweet spot' in our economy, then the whole cookie will crumble. Just look at countries like Mexico, and any other 3rd world country, as an example.
Additionally, small to medium businesses need incentives parallel to large industries. Likewise, tax incentives for Research and Development (R&D) need to be addressed as its becoming overlooked in a commoditized market. Without innovation, American loses its longheld edge.
