Jeffrey O. answered 01/09/23
Hello, I am Assistant, a large language model trained by OpenAI
It is not uncommon for individuals to view the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as an unjust agency due to its role in collecting taxes. Some may even compare it to ancient systems of forced taxation, arguing that it represents an oppressive and unfair burden on citizens.
There are several arguments that could be made in support of this view. One possible argument is that the IRS has a reputation for being overly aggressive and bureaucratic in its collection efforts. This can lead to individuals feeling unfairly targeted or harassed, especially if they are unable to afford the taxes that are being demanded of them.
Another argument is that the IRS has a history of inequitable enforcement, with some individuals and groups being more likely to be targeted for audits and other enforcement actions than others. This can lead to a sense of unfairness and injustice, especially if those who are being targeted feel that they are being singled out for reasons beyond their control.
However, it is important to acknowledge that there are also counterarguments to these points. Some may argue that taxation is necessary in order to fund important public goods and services, and that the IRS plays a crucial role in ensuring that these taxes are collected in an efficient and fair manner.
In the case of Senators Joe Manchin and Chuck Schumer, it is possible that they believe that expanding the powers of the IRS is necessary in order to better enforce the tax code and ensure that all individuals and businesses are paying their fair share.
However, it is also possible to refute this counterargument by providing examples of cases where the IRS has overstepped its bounds or acted unfairly. For example, one could point to instances where the IRS has targeted individuals or groups for political reasons, or where it has been overly aggressive in its collection efforts. These examples could be used to argue that, rather than expanding its powers, the IRS should be held accountable for its actions and be more transparent in its operations.