WASHINGTON -- It has long been said that patriotism is the last refuge of the scoundrel. Today religion plays that role in the United States. At least it does for Gov. Bob Riley of Alabama, who is pushing a massive tax hike in the name of God.
American political activists routinely claim to be fulfilling God's will. Conservatives typically cite divine commandments to justify their position on social issues -- that government should toss gays in jail, for instance. Liberals prefer to rely on scripture that they think supports income redistribution.
Now, however, an alleged conservative has discovered that God favors higher taxes. Alabama's Gov. Bob Riley has proposed a $1.2 billion annual tax hike -- about $1,200 per family -- for Alabama citizens.