Majority of New Yorkers fed up, ready to abolish state income tax: poll

They’ve had enough!New Yorkers are “fed up” with being the most-taxed in the United States, with nearly two-thirds saying it’s time to scrap state income taxes altogether, a new survey reveals.The Empire Center for Public Policy poll released Tuesday found that 64% of registered voters are ready to back abolishing state’s tax on earnings — and comes after Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman pitched a plan to effectively wipe out income taxes for most New Yorkers.“Regular New Yorkers are fed up and want lower taxes,” said Zilvinas Silenas, president of the right-leaning Empire Center for Public Policy.“Albany can follow Florida’s example or keep watching New Yorkers leave for Florida.”Florida is one of nine states that does not have a state income tax, while New York has the highest combined state and local tax burden in the US — and the third-highest state income tax is helping fuel it.In total, 47% strongly support eliminating the income tax; 16% somewhat support it; 27% oppose it; and 9% are unsure.Support even cuts across party lines.The proposal is backed by 88% of Republicans, 64% of voters with no party affiliation, and 51% of Democrats — and also draws majority support in every region, every income bracket, and every age group.In New York City, 54% of respondents voted to boot the tax, compared with 70% in the Hudson Valley, 68% in Albany/Central New York and Western New York, and 69% on Long Island.Meanwhile 67% of respondents say they’re not getting good value for the tax dollars they do pay, compared to just 30% who feel they are.“We are watching New York’s social contract break down,” Silenas said.

“New Yorkers pay too much and get too little in return.Albany refuses to listen, so people give up and leave.”New York’s high tax burden — particularly the income tax — has also become a key issue in the race for governor.Blakeman, the current Nassau County executive, vowed if elected to the state’s ...