Still a diehard statist.

Via The Hill:

Former President Obama said Thursday at a corporate summit that he can empathize with Americans who have to pay a high tax rate, but that it’s something he recognizes benefits the country.

NBC News reported that Obama chided critics of his administration’s tax policies during the Qualtrics X4 Experience Management Summit in Salt Lake City, telling attendees that he “pays the max tax.”

Obama said that because his tax returns were public during his presidency, he wouldn’t be able to take advantage of any loopholes. He added that he’s happy to contribute, however, because of what the country has given him.

“I don’t enjoy writing big checks to the Treasury Department any more than you do. But I have been so blessed by this country,” he said.

“For me to be able to pay my fair share of sustaining this amazing nation so kids coming up behind me are going to have the same opportunities that I do, is something that I insist upon,” he added.