Mayor: "I am proposing an increased tax on sugary soft drinks, which would lead to decreased consumption of such soft drinks, and provide much needed revenue to the city. Surveys indicate that consumption of sugary sodas would drop if the price were raised, showing that I have found a way to make our city healthier and also raise revenue."
Which of the following would most weaken the mayor's argument?
A)Sugary soft drinks are a leading cause of obesity and corresponding health problems.
B)Lessening the consumption of sugary soft drinks is not as important as changing exercise and eating habits in the quest to make the city healthier.
C)The revenue raised from the initiative could fund after-school programs for underprivileged children.
D)The price of soft drinks has more than doubled in recent years, yet residents of the city consume more every year.
E)The study referenced by the mayor was conducted in a city similar in demographics to that of the city in the passage.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The fact that the price of soda has more than doubled in recent years yet residents of the city consume more every year would most weaken the mayor's argument. If city residents are not concerned about the price of soft drinks, then the proposed tax would not have much influence on their behavior, and the mayor would not see the health benefits he hopes for.

Mayor: "I Am Proposing an Increased Tax on Sugary Soft