Larson Opposes Republican “Make America Greedy Again” Tax Cuts for Billionaires in the Ways and Means Committee
Republicans Reject Democratic Amendments to Cut Taxes for Working Families, Small Businesses, and Seniors
Washington, D.C. - Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) released the following statement after Republicans ended a 17-hour markup in the House Ways and Means Committee by approving a bill to cut taxes for the ultra-wealthy.
“For hours, my Democratic colleagues and I proposed amendments to address the real issues facing families and seniors – from Social Security to health care premiums and President Trump’s cost-raising tariffs,” said Larson. “Republicans shot down each and every one of them, remaining laser-focused on cutting taxes for billionaires by slashing programs like Medicaid and SNAP. They voted in lockstep to block my amendment that would enhance Social Security for the first time in more than 50 years and end taxation on Social Security benefits, going back on President Trump’s promise to the American people. Americans must continue to speak up and make their voices heard. It will only take a handful of House Republicans joining Democrats to defeat this devastating bill when it comes to the floor for a vote.”
Under the Republican tax bill, the richest 0.1% would see an average annual tax cut of $278,000, paid for with massive cuts to Medicaid, SNAP nutrition benefits, Pell Grants, and Affordable Care Act coverage. The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office estimates that nearly 14 million Americans will lose their health care under this bill.
During the markup, Republicans voted to reject every amendment Democrats offered, including:
Rep. Larson’s amendment to enhance Social Security and end taxation of Social Security benefits by ensuring the wealthy pay their fair share into the program
Rep. Steven Horsford’s (NV-04) amendment to restore enhanced Affordable Care Act tax credits that have helped 20 million Americans afford their health care premiums
Rep. Suzan DelBene’s (WA-01)amendment to restore the expanded Child Tax Credit that reduced child poverty in half when it was in effect
Rep. Linda Sanchez’s (CA-38) amendment to end President Trump’s tariffs that are raising costs for the average household by $2,800/year
Rep. Jimmy Gomez’s (CA-34) amendment to eliminate tax breaks for people making more than $1 billion per year