Ragnar Lothbrok's Take: The Great American Tax Raid!

The Gods of Gold and Governance

Hark my shield brothers and shield maidens! Ragnar Lothbrok speaks! I have sailed the seas raided the monasteries and now I find myself pondering the strange ways of the American Senate. They speak of 'tax deductions' and 'spending packages' as if they were treasures to be plundered! It reminds me of when Floki first tried to explain the concept of a 'budget' – utter madness!

The $10,000 Wall: A New Kind of Shield

These Senate warriors they propose a $10,000 limit on something called the 'SALT deduction.' It seems that they wish to build a wall not of shields but of numbers! They say it is to control the flow of gold but I see only squabbling and discontent. Like when Rollo and I argued over the spoils of our first raid on Lindisfarne. 'Power is always dangerous. It attracts the worst and corrupts the best,' as I once told King Ecbert.

High Tax Havens: A Viking's Paradise?

They speak of lands like 'New York,' 'New Jersey,' and 'California,' places where the taxes are as high as the cliffs of Norway! It seems even in this strange new world some leaders seek to take more than their share. But remember my friends 'Life is bigger than death.' Even bigger than taxes apparently.

Compromise or Conquest? The Senate's Dilemma

The Senate Majority Leader John Thune speaks of 'compromise.' Bah! Compromise is for those who lack the strength to take what they want! But perhaps in this land of endless debates it is a necessary evil. 'Never fear shadows. They simply mean there's a light shining somewhere nearby,' he seems to be searching for that light.

House Republicans: A Family Feud?

Ah but the drama does not end there! These 'House Republicans' reject this $10,000 limit. One Rep. Mike Lawler calls it 'DEAD ON ARRIVAL.' Strong words! It reminds me of a family feud like when Bjorn Ironside and I clashed over strategy. Such disagreements can lead to glory or ruin. Only the gods know which path they will choose.

The Spoils of War: Who Benefits?

In the end it all comes down to who gets the spoils. They say that raising the SALT deduction cap benefits the rich. Well who else has anything to plunder? 'I believe my fate will decide itself,' I once said. Perhaps these senators should let fate decide as well. Or you know just give me all the gold.