In a significant announcement concerning American working class that makes a living off of tips, former President Donald Trump made a bold pledge on Sunday regarding potential tax reforms under his administration, promising to prioritize changes that would exempt workers who earn part of their income through tips from federal taxes. Specifically highlighting hotel and restaurant employees, Trump emphasized the need to alleviate the tax burden on these workers who rely on tips as a significant portion of their earnings.
🇺🇸 PRESIDENT TRUMP: “When I get into office, we’re not going to charge taxes on tips—people making tips.”
This is HUGE NEWS, and will help millions of struggling families across the country.
pic.twitter.com/vg2wa6MCKM [1]— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) June 9, 2024 [2]
This marked the first instance in which Trump publicly addressed the prospect of altering tax laws to benefit tipped workers, according to Forbes [3], signaling a potential shift in policy focus. While the specifics of the proposed changes were not immediately clarified, Trump underscored the long-standing dispute surrounding the taxation of tips, describing it as a contentious issue that needs urgent resolution.
An absolute GAME CHANGER!
— Nick Sortor (@nicksortor) June 9, 2024 [4]
Addressing a crowd of supporters, Trump emphasized the perceived fairness of granting tax relief to restaurant industry workers, stating that it is a well-deserved measure for individuals whose livelihoods depend on tips. He expressed his commitment to ensuring that employees in tipping-related jobs, including those in restaurants, are no longer subjected to tax assessments under his administration.
Trump’s declaration on tax reform for tipped workers marks a significant departure from traditional conservative views on taxation and reflects a potential policy shift aimed at supporting a key segment of the workforce. With the details of the proposed tax changes yet to be fully articulated, the announcement has sparked discussions and anticipation regarding the potential impact on the hospitality and restaurant sectors if Trump secures a return to the presidency.