(CPOD) Apr. 14, 2003 - Many Americans feel their taxes are excessive, according to a poll by the Associated Press. 51 per cent of respondents say their duties are too high, while 43 per cent say the amount they contribute is correct.

Despite this opinion, Americans would not like to benefit from tax cuts until the Iraqi conflict is over. 61 per cent of respondents believe such relief should only come after the war in the Persian Gulf draws to a conclusion. U.S. president George W. Bush signed a 10-year $1.35 trillion U.S. tax cut in 2001. The U.S. Congress is currently debating additional relief, believed to be around $350 billion U.S.

A majority of respondents believe tax evaders should be penalized, and more than half say a small fine is punishment enough.

Polling Data

How do you feel about the income taxes you currently pay?

Should additional tax cuts be passed to stimulate the economy, or is better to hold off on tax cuts to ensure there is adequate money for the war with Iraq?

If people are caught cheating on their taxes in a minor way, should be punished?

How should people be punished for cheating on their taxes in a minor way?

Source: The Associated Press
Methodology: Telephone interviews to 1,017 American adults, conducted from Apr. 2 to Apr. 6, 2003. Margin of error is 3 per cent.

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