Grover Norquist Solves Warren Buffett's Tax Dilemma

You have to hand it to Grover Norquist: He knows how to make a point.

Earlier this week the veteran antitax activist and leader of Americans for Tax Reform sent a letter to Warren Buffett to let him know he had figured out a way to solve the Omaha billionaire's very public conundrum concerning the fact that his secretary paid more in taxes than he did.

[See a collection of political cartoons on the economy.]

"You have mentioned in passing that you feel unhappy that you do not pay enough money to the government each year in taxes," Norquist wrote.

As it turns out, you don't need to wait for President Obama to sign legislation raising taxes on you. You can open up your checkbook right now, write a check payable to the United States Treasury, and drop it in the nearest mailbox (or just hand it to your "secretary"). Problem solved.

According to the U.S. Department of the Treasury's website—where Norquist in his letter helpfully points Buffett:

Citizens who wish to make a general donation to the U.S. government may send contributions to a specific account called "Gifts to the United States." This account was established in 1843 to accept gifts, such as bequests, from individuals wishing to express their patriotism to the United States. Money deposited into this account is for general use by the federal government and can be available for budget needs. These contributions are considered an unconditional gift to the government. Financial gifts can be made by check or money order payable to the United States Treasury and mailed to the address below:

Gifts to the United States
U.S. Department of the Treasury
Credit Accounting Branch
3700 East-West Highway, Room 622D
Hyattsville, MD 20782 

[Rick Newman: The Biggest Losers Under Obama's Debt-Cutting Plan]

"Once you've sent the check," Norquist promises, "I would be glad to help spread the word. The many others who believe the government can spend their money better than they can will be inspired by your example," adding, "As a convenience to you, I've enclosed an envelope pre-addressed to the U.S. Treasury.  You'll have to take care of the stamp yourself, however."

Indeed. 

• Vote: Are Obama's Proposed Tax Hikes 'Class Warfare'?
• See a collection of political cartoons on the budget and deficit.
• Scott Galupo: By Playing On Envy, Obama Asks Americans to Abandon Aspirations