Mitt Romney Officially Releases His Taxes

After much consternation and public battling, GOP hopeful Mitt Romney released his taxes on his website Tuesday morning, sharing an assortment of 2010 tax forms, as well as his estimated 2011 taxes. But not before issuing a few reminders:

First, as a successful businessman, Governor Romney has not only added value to our economy through his investment and business activity, but he has paid millions in taxes every year to the U.S. government.

Second, the Romneys take to heart “to whom much is given, of him shall much be required.” Accordingly, they have been extraordinarily generous in their charitable giving, donating over $7 million from 2010-2011, averaging over 16% of their income.

Third, Mitt Romney has been scrupulous about observing the requirements of the tax code. His income is reported and taxed in full compliance with U.S. law, and he has paid 100 percent of what he has owed. His good name means everything to him. Throughout his life in this and in other matters, he has conducted his personal and business affairs so as to be beyond reproach.

The returns are pretty much what many expected — a wide assortment of boring numbers and relatively confusing forms. Proceed with caution while perusing the web pages, and do not operate heavy machinery while skimming through the varied PDFs. There’s actually an option to download the files to your personal computer, and we wish anyone who chooses that route the best of luck in leading a rather banal life.

Enjoy Romney’s tax returns here, courtesy of his campaign website.