When it comes to over taxing, people love to pretend. And there has been a whole lot of pretending lately.

In France, for instance. The country’s former president, Nicolas Sarkozy, is reported to be planning to move to the UK. “Move” is not the right word. “Flee” would be more accurate.

Sarkozy wishes to flee France’s high taxes. The new president of France is trying to slap the rich with a steep tax increase. For fairness, I suppose. And Sarkozy, being rich, may say adieu and kiss my derriere.

One of France’s most famous citizens, actor Gerard Depardieu, has already fled. Into the welcoming arms of Russia and Vladimir Putin. You know things must be bad when a guy wants to abandon French cuisine for boiled cabbage and Putin.

These guys are not alone. Evidently a number of rich French are deserting their country over the high taxes.

Meanwhile, American pro golfer Phil Michelson grumbled about California’s high taxes. He threatened to leave that state. He hinted he might leave the country. And Tiger Woods admitted that he moved from California to escape its taxes. Just as billionaire Tom Golisano beat it out of New York for Florida. Where there are no income taxes. He took a hike when New York lawmakers crafted higher taxes. In a bill that seemed to be written expressly for him. For his money, that is.