Many smart things can be said about the 47% of Americans who owe no federal income taxes.

• Their ranks have swelled thanks to tax breaks both parties champion.

• Many pay payroll taxes.

• Most are low-income folks, seniors and families with young kids.

Mitt Romney, however, noted none of that. Instead, at a secretly taped fundraiser in May, the Republican presidential candidate said the 47% are "dependent on government" and "believe they are victims."

"I'll never convince them they should take personal responsibility and care for their lives."

To Romney's credit, he later said he was "completely wrong." But not before his campaign took a body blow. -- Jeanne Sahadi

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