The aggregate taxation of the middle class far exceeds 36%. Social Security & Medicare alone is 16.3%. Don't bother telling me the employer pays half. The entire 16.3% is a PRODUCT OF THE EMPLOYEES LABOR. Now add Fed Income tax, state income or personal property taxes, land tax, school tax, utility taxes, excise taxes, sales tax and remember the hidden embedded taxes in every product and service you buy. 60% of household income paid in taxes is more accurate.