Meaning: The quote "But we need to quit taxing people upon death. No taxation without respiration" by Steve King, a politician, is a concise and thought-provoking statement that addresses the issue of estate or inheritance taxes. In this quote, King cleverly repurposes the famous revolutionary slogan "No taxation without representation" to highlight his viewpoint on the taxation of estates and inheritances. By replacing "representation" with "respiration," King draws attention to the idea that taxing individuals upon their death contradicts the principles of fairness and individual rights.

Estate tax, also known as inheritance tax or death duty, is a tax on the transfer of property upon the death of the owner. It is levied on the estate of a deceased person before the property is transferred to their beneficiaries. Proponents of estate tax argue that it is a means of redistributing wealth and preventing the concentration of wealth and power within a small segment of society. They believe that taxing large inheritances can help address economic inequality and fund public services.

However, opponents of estate tax, such as Steve King, argue that it is unfair to tax individuals upon their death. They contend that estate tax represents double taxation, as the assets being taxed have already been subject to income tax during the owner's lifetime. Moreover, opponents argue that estate tax can have negative implications for family-owned businesses and farms, potentially leading to their liquidation in order to pay the tax bill. This, they argue, can have detrimental effects on local economies and communities.

The quote by Steve King succinctly captures the sentiment of those who believe that estate tax is unjust and goes against the principles of individual liberty and property rights. By invoking the concept of "respiration," King emphasizes the idea that taxation should only be applicable to individuals who are alive and earning income. This aligns with the historical context of "No taxation without representation," which originated during the American Revolution as a protest against taxation imposed by the British government without colonial representation in the decision-making process.

From a political standpoint, the quote reflects a stance often taken by conservative politicians and individuals who advocate for limited government intervention in economic matters. Their position is rooted in the belief that individuals should have the freedom to pass on their wealth to their chosen beneficiaries without facing additional taxation upon their death. This viewpoint resonates with those who prioritize individual economic freedom and view estate tax as an infringement on property rights.

In conclusion, the quote "But we need to quit taxing people upon death. No taxation without respiration" by Steve King encapsulates the opposition to estate tax and advocates for a system where individuals are not taxed upon their death. It draws attention to the contentious nature of estate tax and the broader debate surrounding the role of taxation in society. Whether one agrees or disagrees with this perspective, the quote effectively conveys the sentiment of those who believe that estate tax contradicts the principles of fair and just taxation.