We are constantly told by some advocates that there is no “proof” that higher corporate taxes have an impact on where a business chooses to set up shop. Right.

The tidy towns and mountain vistas of Switzerland are an unlikely setting for an oil boom.
Yet a wave of energy companies has in the last few months announced plans to move to Switzerland — mainly for its appeal as a low-tax corporate domicile that looks relatively likely to stay out of reach of Barack Obama’s tax-seeking administration.

Actually, the parallels between the small country of Switzerland and little Rhody are intriguing. If only we could get our act together.

Companies say Switzerland’s attractiveness as a corporate location goes beyond tax to include easy and efficient transport, a high quality of life and well-trained staff.

Yes, it is more than just an attractive tax structure that is required. One would think that efficient transportation and a solid infrastructure would be more easily achieved in a small state like ours. Switzerland has the Alps and, as Dan Yorke often says, a lot of what makes RI so attractive is “water.” As for education, we have a lot of resources, but may be slipping. Basically, Rhode Island has a lot of untapped potential, but we all know that. It will remain untapped until and unless our political class gets their priorities in order. Or until Rhode Islanders finally hold them responsible. The track record isn’t encouraging.