mr. elmendorf, described the economic benefit of tax reform in his testimony before this committee, and i quote him -- i think analysts would widely agree that reform of the tax code that broadened the base and brought down rates would be positive for economic growth, economic development, both in the short term and over the longer period. tax reform can also help address the growing income inequality in the country. in recent years we have seen that gap grow. since 1979, the real after-tax household income for the top 1% has grown about 275%. over the same time period, the income for the middle quintile has grown about 35%. our tax system, i believe, is contributing to this income inequality. it's not the only factor. there are many others, globalization and so many others, but i think we have to acknowledge the tax system is part of it. tax expenditures, the countless preferences, credits, deductions, exclusions that have been added to the code over the years are disproportionately benefiting those who are at the very top. in 2011, the top 1% of taxpayers received an increase in after t

mr. elmendorf, talked about the economic benefits of tax reform in a hearing before the budget committee.he said -- and i quote -- "i think analysts would widely agree that reform of the tax code that broadened the base and brought down rates would be a positive force for economic growth both in the short term and over the longer period." mr. president, tax reform has got to be part of the agenda of this congress. and here is what's happening to income disparity in america. look what's happened. the top 1% -- and i'm all for the top 1% doing well. i want everyone to do well in america. look what's happening. since 19 79, the top 1% their incomes have gone up almost 300%. look what's happened to those in the middle and those at the bottom. they're incomes have stagnated. they have been about stable. gone up a little bit, but not very much. the top 1% has gone up like a rocket. mr. president, one of the reasons is the tax code of the united states has dramatically reduced the wealthiest in our country, the tax burden that they show -- shoulder. they'll tell you their taxes have gone way up.