Break Quote by John F. Kennedy
“Budget deficits are not caused by wild-eyed spenders, but by slow economic growth and periodic recessions. And any new recession would break all deficit records. In short, it is a paradoxical truth that tax rates are too high today and tax revenues are too low, and the soundest way to raise the revenues in the long run is to cut the rates now.”
About This Quote
Source Speech: Economic policy address, 1963
Deficits stem from stagnant growth and recessions, not reckless spending; paradoxically, high taxes lower revenue, so cutting rates may boost long‑term income.
In simple terms: Deficits are due to slow growth, not overspending; high taxes hurt revenue.
Key Takeaway
Consider tax cuts to stimulate growth.
Themes
economics
fiscal policy
paradox
Mood
analytical
serious
Type
policy
philosophical
When to use this quote
- budget planning
- policy debate
- economic forecasting
Key Concepts
public finance
tax theory
Questions to Reflect On
- How can growth be stimulated responsibly?
- What alternatives exist to balance budgets?
A Different Perspective
Tax cuts can reduce needed revenue.
