Donald Trump’s proposed tax reform could exempt approximately 93.2 million Americans—nearly half of the U.S. electorate—from part of their income taxes. The former president and Republican nominee has outlined plans to eliminate taxes on tips and Social Security benefits, with possible exemptions for firefighters, police officers, and military personnel. CNBC reports that Trump is considering these additional exemptions as part of a broader effort to overhaul the U.S. tax system.
Transitioning from Income Tax to Tariffs
Trump’s vision for the U.S. tax system includes transitioning away from traditional income taxes and replacing them with revenue generated by his proposed tariffs. He plans to introduce a universal 20% tariff on all imports, with a specific 60% tariff on goods from China. Trump argues that these tariffs will bolster American manufacturing and help the country return to its economic peak, as seen in the late 19th century when tariffs were the primary source of government revenue.
“In the old days, when we were smart, in the 1890s, this is when the country was relatively the richest it ever was. It had all tariffs. It didn’t have an income tax,” Trump said during a recent Fox & Friends event with voters. He criticized the current income tax system, suggesting it is burdensome to Americans.
Impact on Social Security and Tipped Workers
Trump’s plan to eliminate income taxes on Social Security benefits could affect roughly 68 million Americans who receive these benefits each month, according to the Social Security Administration. Additionally, about 4 million workers hold tipped positions, based on a 2023 estimate by Yale University’s Budget Lab. By exempting these groups from taxes, Trump aims to provide financial relief to a large portion of the workforce and retirees.
Fiscal Impact of the Tax Plan
However, Trump’s tax proposals come with significant costs. The nonpartisan Tax Foundation estimates that his plan could reduce federal tax revenue by $3 trillion between 2025 and 2034. This dramatic revenue reduction would likely create challenges for funding government programs and services.
Despite the scale of Trump’s proposals, they are unlikely to pass through Congress without significant opposition. Republicans currently control the House of Representatives by a narrow margin, and future support for Trump’s tax plan may hinge on the outcome of upcoming elections.
