I think the rich on either side probably exploit the loopholes to keep their riches, but the Democrats have consistently introduced legislation that would benefit the poor and middle class, and assign more of the tax burden to those who wouldn't miss it.  The difference is that the Republicans...especially George Allen...have done their part to vote against that legislation.  Like you said, there is no sin in being rich.  The sad shame about the Republican Party these days is that they seem to be determined to make sure that the American Dream is no longer possible for anyone who hasn't realized it already.  I saw an article on AOL news a few months ago.  This article talked about what the rich spent their money on.  $200K on clothing per year, hundreds of thousands on spa-weekend get-aways, millions on art.  In reality, they didn't know how much they spent or how much money they had....it was all looked after by financial managers.  Would they miss taxes?