"As a general proposition, I think you certainly don’t want to use the tax code … to punish people."

Doesn't Obama deserve some points for moderation on this one?

IN THE COMMENTS: Jason (the commenter) wrote:

That's not what Obama said.

"And as a general proposition, I think you certainly don't wanna use the tax code to punish people."

Note that the ellipsis in the article seems to be indicating a confused pause. It does not indicate that part of the statement is missing.

Also, look at what Obama is saying.

"And" (there was a whole bunch more before we came to this statement)

"as a general proposition" (qualifying statement)

"I think" (qualifying statement)

"you" (not "I")

"certainly" (a double qualified certainly)

"don't wanna" (we often have to do things we don't WANT to do)

"use the tax code to punish people" (way at the end)