Kamala Harris is once again under scrutiny as a past decision to cast a tie-breaking vote in favor of the IRS tracking workers’ tips for taxation has resurfaced. This decision, made two years ago, is drawing renewed attention amid her current campaign efforts and shifting political strategies.
In August 2022, Harris cast a decisive vote to pass the Inflation Reduction Act, a bill that controversially expanded the IRS by over 80,000 agents. The legislation aimed to bolster tax enforcement, particularly targeting gratuities in the hospitality industry and small monetary transactions through platforms like Venmo. In a video from that period, Harris is seen confidently stating, “On this vote, the yay’s are 50, the nay’s are 50. The Senate being equally divided, the vice president votes in the affirmative and the bill as amended is passed,” underscoring her role in this pivotal legislative move.
https://twitter.com/ImMeme0/status/1823362128654254409
Harris’ Shift to “No Tax on Tips” Initiative
The Inflation Reduction Act’s provision to tax tips has been contentious, especially as Harris now champions a “No Tax on Tips” initiative—a policy originally proposed by President Trump. This shift in stance has sparked criticism and accusations of political opportunism. Critics argue that Harris is appropriating Trump’s idea to appeal to voters disillusioned by the economic policies of the Biden-Harris administration.
Political Commentary and Media Reactions
Political commentators have been quick to point out the inconsistency. Tim Murtaugh, a former Trump campaign official, highlighted the media’s differing coverage of the two proposals, suggesting that Harris’ adoption of Trump’s idea is receiving more favorable attention. “Only sharp-eyed readers will be able to spot the difference in the coverage of the two proposals,” Murtaugh tweeted, emphasizing a perceived media bias.
This episode also sheds light on the broader implications of Harris’ legislative track record. By voting to enhance tax enforcement on tips, she aligned herself with stringent tax policies that many believe exacerbate the financial strain on working-class Americans. Now, as she pivots towards a more populist stance, questions about her consistency and authenticity have been raised.
The backlash from conservative circles has been significant. Critics like Senator Ted Cruz have used this incident to underscore what they see as Harris’ duplicity, urging voters to “believe her” when she makes policy promises. This scrutiny is particularly potent as Harris positions herself for the upcoming presidential race, where voter trust and authenticity will be critical.
Harris just agreed not to tax tips days after Trump stated he would, but she WAS THE TIE BREAKER OTE IN CONGRESS TO TAX TIPS . you can’t have both ways Kamala.