United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby wants the tax that made billionaires flee California across America; says: We should have a national ...

Scott Kirby, CEO of United Airlines has doubled down on his controversial support for wealth tax arguing that any such policy would need to be implemented nationally rather than at the state level to prevent wealthy individuals from relocating to avoid it. According to a report by Fortune, the airline chief started the debate last week after advocating for a national wealth tax during a Q&A with The New York Times. Addressing concerns about declining public trust in corporate leaders, Kirby said growing wealth inequality poses a risk to society and requires action. "We should have a national wealth tax. It won't work by state because people will just move," Kirby said. He also suggested that inheritance taxes should become significantly steeper at higher wealth levels, adding that he would personally be willing to pay them.California billionaire tax debate provides backdropKirby's remarks come as California voters prepare to decide on a proposed billionaire tax next month. Supporters of the measure argue it could become a model for other states and potentially influence broader tax policy discussions. The comments quickly drew criticism from conservative commentators and politicians, with some suggesting that Kirby should voluntarily give away a portion of his compensation if he believes the wealthy should pay more taxes.United Airlines CEO says issue is about fairnessSpeaking to Bloomberg Television later in the week, Kirby did not retreat from his position but emphasized that he is not attempting to shape public policy or seek elected office. Instead, he framed his argument around fairness within the tax system. According to Kirby, some individuals who derive much of their income from investments and assets can legally avoid income taxes, creating an imbalance between wealth holders and traditional wage earners.He said a more equitable system would find ways to tax the growth of wealth while potentially reducing taxes on earned income. Despite the backlash, Kirby noted that feedback he received via email was evenly divided between supporters and critics. Scott Kirby proposes mandatory national serviceThe United Airlines chief also offered another unconventional proposal during the Bloomberg interview, advocating for some form of national service for all Americans."I think national service for everyone would be a good idea," Kirby said, suggesting that people could spend a few years serving as teachers, firefighters or members of the military.While noting that he did not serve in the military, Kirby said shared service experiences could strengthen the country and create a greater sense of civic responsibility.Thinking about future generationsKirby said his opinions on taxation, government finances and national service are rooted in concerns about the country's long-term future. "I love this country. I want it to be great for the next 250 years. I want it to be great for my kids," he said, adding that policymakers should stop pushing major challenges, including budget deficits and Social Security concerns, onto future generations.The CEO, who said he has seven children, argued that addressing those issues now is essential to ensuring future Americans inherit a stronger and more sustainable country.You use AI every day. Now get your AI Quotient. Take the AIQ test.