Robin Hood Republicans

Three Texas counties show the way to real Social Security reform.

by Rod D. Martin
February 21, 2005

It has long been said that Robin Hood, that populist bandit of legend, “stole from the rich to give to the poor.” More than a few liberals have invoked his heroism as a justification for the “progressive” income tax and every manner of government compulsion.

But in many, if not most, versions of the legend, “the rich” aren't the target at all.

Just pop some popcorn and put on Kevin Costner's Robin Hood - Prince of Thieves (recently released in a vastly improved DVD special edition). Costner's bandit doesn't waste much time on those who've earned their living, however generous it might be. On the contrary: his Robin Hood goes straight at the heart of darkness, the oppressor of rich and poor alike, the ultimate thief who with the full force of law robs everyone, allegedly for their own good. He is the Sheriff of Nottingham, a stand-in for his kind throughout the centuries: the state.

And in this year's version, he's played by Harry Reid.

Despite Reid's pathe…