Every time taxes go up on the wealthy, conservatives say they will flee New York. 🌆

But I can’t imagine there are many wealthy people who live in New York for the low taxes. I really can’t think of a single person I know who chooses to live in New York for the low taxes — wealthy or otherwise. People live in New York for the unique accommodations in New York City, or even the things available in Upstate New York.

Sure you can live in Kansas or Idaho and pay a ton less in taxes, and that’s really good if your a homesteader, or want to farm. If cows are your thing and don’t already own land or have local family connections, then great. But not so good if you want to go to five star restaurants, Broadway shows or all the the high-end accommodations only available in a major metropolitan region. If you relatives and business partners all live in New York, then your kind of screwed if you go anywhere else. And taxes are based on the number of days you spend in New York — so if your commuting in from other state or have a vacation home in New York — you’ll still pay.

So I think it’s kind of silly argument to be opposed to the wealthy paying a bit more, just so that we can provide a good education to students or healthcare to seniors.