But the Left long ago realized how gullible the public is, especially when it comes to fear-mongering. And so they have been able to dress up their various tax SCHEMES in sentiments like "it's for the children" and "we have to stop global warming, now!"
They also have to stop obesity by taxing fast food and high-calorie stuff. Oh, and your SUVs.
The REAL shame is that all these people aren't out on their ears for trying this. But since the Founders' warning to the American citizenry, about the vital need for an educated public, has gone unheeded, this is what we get.