We live at an odd moment in time, when powerful politicians have no shame in flaunting their ignorance on the most pressing political issue of the day. Case in point: Charles Rangel, the most powerful individual shaping our tax code, who infamously "forgot" to pay taxes, among other violations of the rules ordinary citizens must obey.

Mr. Rangel also doesn't seem to know the meaning of the phrase "disposable income."

He wants to increase people's "disposable income" so they can put food on the table.

Mr. Rangel also believes that the stimulus bill includes tax cuts for 95% of the population.

This is what happens when you put buffoons in charge of the country's purse-strings.

For Mr. Rangel is in charge of the House Ways & Means Committee, which writes the nation's tax laws, and largely determines how those taxes will be spent.