East Bay Times reader letters to the editor for Nov. 23, 2025 are filled with a variety of opinions on current issues. From an opinionated comic to a sour shutdown and a call to fix Prop. 13, the readers have not shied away from expressing their views. However, one topic that seems to have sparked a lot of interest and debate amongst the readers is the idea of a progressive tax.
A progressive tax is a tax system where the tax rate increases as the taxable amount increases. In simple terms, the more you earn, the more you pay in taxes. This system is often seen as a way to address income inequality and promote a fairer distribution of wealth. And it seems like many East Bay Times readers are in favor of implementing a progressive tax in our society.
One reader, John from Oakland, writes, “I have always believed that a progressive tax is the only way to bridge the gap between the rich and the poor. It is unfair that the wealthy continue to get tax breaks while the middle and lower class struggle to make ends meet. It’s time for a change.”
Another reader, Sarah from Berkeley, adds, “I am tired of seeing the wealthy evade taxes and hoard their wealth while the rest of us struggle. A progressive tax would ensure that everyone pays their fair share and the burden is not solely on the middle and lower class.”
It’s clear that the readers are frustrated with the current tax system and are calling for a change. But not everyone is in favor of a progressive tax. Some argue that it would discourage people from working hard and earning more, as they would end up paying a higher tax rate.
One reader, Mike from San Francisco, writes, “A progressive tax would only discourage people from working hard and earning more. Why should I work harder if I have to give away more of my earnings to the government? It’s not fair.”
While there are valid arguments on both sides, it’s important to note that a progressive tax does not mean punishing the wealthy. It simply means that everyone pays their fair share based on their income. And as one reader, Lisa from Walnut Creek, points out, “A progressive tax would not only address income inequality, but it would also help fund important social programs and services that benefit everyone in society. We all have a responsibility to contribute towards the betterment of our community.”
In addition to the progressive tax debate, another hot topic amongst the readers is the recent sour shutdown of the government. Many readers expressed their disappointment and frustration with the current state of affairs.
One reader, David from Concord, writes, “The government shutdown is a result of the lack of cooperation and compromise amongst our leaders. It’s time for them to put their differences aside and work towards finding solutions for the betterment of the country.”
Another reader, Maria from Alameda, adds, “The government shutdown is affecting the lives of so many people and it’s unacceptable. Our leaders need to come to a resolution and put an end to this chaos.”
The readers also had a lot to say about the need to fix Prop. 13, which limits property taxes and has been a topic of debate for many years. Many readers believe that it’s time for a change and that Prop. 13 is no longer serving its purpose.
One reader, Mark from Hayward, writes, “Prop. 13 needs to be fixed as it has caused a huge imbalance in property taxes and has contributed to the housing crisis. It’s time for our leaders to take action and address this issue.”
Another reader, Karen from Fremont, adds, “Fixing Prop. 13 will not only generate more revenue for the state, but it will also make property taxes fairer for everyone. It’s time for a change that benefits the entire community.”
Lastly, there was also a letter from a reader praising an opinionated comic in the newspaper. The reader, Emily from Livermore, writes, “I want to thank the East Bay Times for featuring the opinionated comic in today’s paper. It’s refreshing to see a comic that is not afraid to express their views on current issues. Keep up the good work!”
Overall, it’s clear that the East Bay Times readers are actively engaged in the issues that affect our society. The letters to the editor serve as a platform for readers to voice their opinions and concerns, and it’s important that their voices are heard. Whether it’s a call for a progressive tax
