"Why add to the burden to keep the wealthy, wealthy"
Because there are still some morons that actually believe in the "trickle down" BS that has led to the increasing polarization of wealth, and the disappearing middle class.
The $800 billion bailout is just the beginning- no matter who is president next, this is going to get a LOT worse. 'Trickle Down' economics is a parasitic meme that is fought for by the wealthy and powerful- the only ones it truely benifits, the ones who have the power to ensure it remains our policy.