In 1980, the top marginal rate was 70%. In 1962, the top marginal rate was 92%. How are any of them relevant to 2018? In fact, by the time any of the ideas are implemented we will be concerned with 2019 and beyond tax rates. Please be honest with the math, so the validity of the argument isn't diluted. I'm with you on this, let's use facts relevant to the problem we are trying to solve. The top marginal tax rate for most of the high earning pilots is 32.9% federal (315-400k), there are some who will exceed that with Delta alone and quite a few with outside income or working spouses who are in 37.9% federal range. The state additive is more unique and varies from 0-10%.

WRT the 50% comment, congrats for having that problem. You need to find a non W-2 source of income. I sound like a broken record on these forums, but owning income producing real estate is the best way to make money and build wealth. It far exceeds any DC Backdoor Mega 415c Roth Pension VB Annuity plan in existence.