The only thing that doesn't make sense is why Dermot doesn't understand what a "foundational absurdity" is..
Taxes plus Dividends is a "Fools Deal" - just like the homeless guy's sign said!
Dermot: "If a tradition is established in Alaska that withdrawing money from Permanent Fund earnings is a logical way to help pay the bills, there will be pressure to take more in the years ahead, as billions in "excess earnings" will be seen in a different light."
Dermot! There is no IF about it - it has been happening since we started receiving income from the PF. You could also say that if a tradition is established that paying Dividends is mandatory, there will be pressure to take more from the PF AND tax hard working Alaska residents!