Election tax policies are a central issue in the 2024 presidential race. With former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris unveiling their economic agendas, Americans are keenly aware of how these plans might affect their finances. As the candidates propose various changes, including modifications to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), the potential impact on taxpayers is significant. These proposals could lead to changes in child tax credits, corporate tax rates, and even Social Security income. Understanding these policies is crucial for voters who want to be informed about their financial future.

The Legacy of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017, passed under Trump’s administration, is a significant factor in the current discussion of election tax policies. This legislation brought sweeping changes to the tax code, reducing federal income tax brackets, increasing the standard deduction, and expanding the child tax credit. However, many of these provisions are set to expire after 2025, potentially leading to higher taxes for millions of Americans.

Without action from Congress, over 60% of taxpayers could see their taxes increase in 2026. The TCJA’s expiring provisions include lower federal income tax brackets and a higher standard deduction. The child tax credit, which has provided much-needed relief to families, may also revert to lower levels. The looming expiration of these provisions is a critical issue that the next president must address.

Trump’s Approach to Tax Policies

Trump’s approach to election tax policies focuses on preserving and extending the individual and business tax cuts enacted through the TCJA. During a recent event in Pennsylvania, Trump promised “big tax cuts for families and small businesses,” emphasizing his commitment to keeping taxes low. His campaign has made it clear that maintaining these tax cuts is a priority.

Trump proposes eliminating taxes on Social Security income, which could benefit millions of retirees. For many Americans, Social Security is a vital income source, and this move could provide significant financial relief. Trump also suggests introducing tariffs on imported goods to generate revenue without directly raising taxes on citizens.

However, some experts have raised concerns about the potential negative impact of tariffs on the economy. Tariffs can lead to higher prices for consumers, effectively reducing the purchasing power of American households. According to the Tax Policy Center, Trump’s proposed tariffs could reduce the average after-tax U.S. household income by $1,800 in 2025. Despite these concerns, Trump argues that tariffs are a tax on foreign countries rather than American consumers.

Harris’s Vision for Tax Reform

Vice President Kamala Harris’s approach to election tax policies contrasts sharply with Trump’s. While she has not explicitly addressed the extension of the TCJA, her campaign has focused on creating a fairer tax system. Harris supports increasing the corporate tax rate from 21% to 28%, a move that could generate significant revenue for the federal government. This increase in the corporate tax rate could reduce the federal deficit by $1 trillion over a decade, according to the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget.

Harris has also proposed expanding the child tax credit, which could provide up to $6,000 in tax relief for families with newborn children. This expansion would be a continuation of the Biden administration’s efforts to support working families. By increasing the child tax credit, Harris aims to provide financial relief to millions of American families, particularly those with young children.

Additionally, Harris has suggested eliminating income tax on tip income, a proposal that has garnered some bipartisan support. Nevada, a key battleground state with a large service industry workforce, is a focal point for this policy. Eliminating taxes on tip income could benefit service workers who rely on tips as a significant portion of their earnings. However, some policy experts have expressed concerns about the administrative challenges and potential for abuse associated with this proposal.

The Battle Over Corporate Tax Rates

The corporate tax rate is another critical issue in the debate over election tax policies. Trump’s TCJA permanently reduced the corporate tax rate from 35% to 21%, a move that was intended to spur economic growth by making the U.S. more competitive globally. However, critics argue that this reduction primarily benefited large corporations and the wealthy, contributing to income inequality.

Harris’s proposal to increase the corporate tax rate to 28% reflects a different approach. She argues that corporations should pay their fair share to help reduce the federal deficit and fund essential government programs. Increasing the corporate tax rate could also provide additional revenue to support initiatives such as the expanded child tax credit and other social safety net programs.

The debate over corporate tax rates will be contentious, but the outcome will greatly impact the U.S. economy. A higher corporate tax rate could raise business costs, potentially leading to higher consumer prices. However, it could also boost investment in public services and infrastructure, benefiting the economy in the long run.

The Future of Social Security Income

Social Security income is a lifeline for many retirees, and election tax policies will likely impact how this income is taxed. Currently, up to 85% of Social Security benefits can be subject to federal income tax, depending on the recipient’s total income. Trump has proposed eliminating taxes on Social Security income, which would provide significant financial relief to retirees.

This proposal is particularly appealing to older voters, who are concerned about the adequacy of their retirement savings. Eliminating taxes on Social Security income could help ensure that retirees have enough money to cover their living expenses. However, critics argue that this policy could exacerbate the federal deficit, particularly if it is not accompanied by other revenue-raising measures.

Harris has not directly addressed the taxation of Social Security income, but her broader tax policy agenda suggests a focus on creating a more equitable tax system. It remains to be seen how her campaign will address this issue as the election approaches.

The Role of Congress in Shaping Tax Policy

While candidates’ proposals on election tax policies are crucial, Congress must approve any tax code changes. The 2024 congressional election outcome will significantly shape the future of U.S. tax policy.

If Republicans maintain control of one or both chambers of Congress, it is likely that Trump’s tax proposals will have a better chance of being enacted. On the other hand, if Democrats retain control, Harris’s proposals are more likely to gain traction. The balance of power in Congress will also affect the ability to address the federal budget deficit, which is a growing concern for both parties.

Conclusion

Election tax policies are a key issue in the 2024 presidential race. Trump and Harris offer different visions for the U.S. tax system. Trump focuses on preserving the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, reducing taxes on Social Security income, and imposing tariffs. His goal is to keep taxes low for individuals and businesses. Harris advocates for a fairer tax system. She proposes increasing the corporate tax rate and expanding the child tax credit.

Voters must recognize that the election’s outcome will significantly impact the U.S. economy and American households. The future of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, the corporate tax rate, and Social Security income depend on the 2024 election. Understanding these issues is crucial for making an informed choice at the ballot box.

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