FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 18, 2004

CONTACT: Stacey Farnen Bernards 202-225-3130

BUSH ADMINISTRATION ALREADY RETREATING FROM CAMPAIGN PROMISE ON TAX REFORM

Hoyer Urges the President to Honor His Campaign Pledge

WASHINGTON, DC – House Democratic Whip Steny Hoyer (MD) released the following statement this morning concerning tax reform and simplification:

 “All along the campaign trail, President Bush talked about the need to make our incredibly complicated tax system more simple and more fair. 

“While the President never endorsed specific proposals during the campaign, he did strike a chord with politicians and taxpayers of all political stripes who recognize the urgent need for real tax reform and simplification.

 “But now, just days after the election, there are signals that the Administration is backing away from its commitment to tax reform as quickly and quietly as it can.  The White House seems to be lowering expectations for serious reform, and instead is indicating that it may use this issue as a Trojan horse to shift the overall tax burden to middle-income taxpayers and even decrease incentives for businesses to help employees pay for health insurance.

“There is no excuse or justification for retreat on comprehensive tax reform – it is one of the keys to middle class tax relief and economic prosperity. 

 “As I have said repeatedly over this past year, our tax code is a maze of complexity that is in dire need of reform.  We know from experience that presidential leadership and bipartisan support are crucial to any tax reform and simplification effort. 

 “This is an important test for President Bush and Congressional Republicans.  It will show the American people whether they are serious about keeping their campaign promises and working with Democrats to find common ground on important issues.”

Congressman Hoyer delivered a major address on tax reform and simplification earlier this year at the Urban Institute.

 

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