White House slams House GOP’s Israel aid package: ‘The definition of backwards’
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GOP plan to ‘offset’ Israel aid with IRS cuts would backfire, budget experts warn on November 1, 2023 at 10:00 am Business News | The Hill
A recent proposal by House Republicans to take billions of dollars from the IRS and give it to Israel for its war against Hamas is raising alarm from budget experts, who say the push would undercut the party’s calls to reduce the national debt.
Since assuming control of the House in January, House Republicans have targeted what they’ve described as “wasteful” spending by Democrats. GOP leaders have proposed steep cuts to tackle the national debt.
But budget experts argue a Monday bill from House Republicans, which would take $14.3 billion away from the IRS, will expand the national debt by tens of billions of dollars over the next decade.
The cuts would also hamstring efforts to close the “tax gap” — hundreds of billions of dollars the government is owed every year but fails to collect.
“Paying for new spending by defunding tax enforcement is worse than not paying for it at all, said Maya MacGuineas, president of the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget (CRFB), in a Monday statement.
CRFB estimated the GOP plan would add more than $30 billion to the debt.
“Instead of avoiding new borrowing, this plan doubles down on it,” MacGuineas said.
Howard Gleckman, senior fellow at the Urban-Brookings Tax Policy Center at the Urban Institute, said it was “pretty clear” that “cutting this kind of IRS funding would actually increase the deficit.”
“Instead of being an offset, it would actually make matters worse,” he argued. “The general rule of thumb that the budget scorekeepers use is it’s about 2-to-1. So if you cut IRS funding [by $14 billion to $15 billion], you’re actually going to increase the deficit by about $30 billion.”
The Congressional Budget Office (CBO), which determines how various pieces of legislation affect the national deficit, is now in the process of scoring the bill.
“We are working on it now,” Deborah Kilroe, communications director of the CBO, told The Hill in an email Tuesday morning.
The White House has already promised to veto the bill, favoring a joint military aid package for both Israel and Ukraine. But further IRS cuts could resurface as attachments to military aid specifically for Ukraine, which is a priority for Democrats in need of Republican votes to get the money out the door.
The House is expected to consider the legislation shortly after they return to Washington on Wednesday. But Democrats have already panned the bill as a “non-starter” in the Senate.
“If Republicans had an ounce of shame they wouldn’t condition support for Israel and Ukraine on giveaways to wealthy tax cheats. Making aid to Israel and Ukraine dependent on gutting IRS enforcement funding is an absolute nonstarter,” Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), the Senate Finance Committee chair, said in a Tuesday statement.
Not all Republicans seem to be in lockstep on the proposed cuts either.
Asked Tuesday about the framing of the cuts as an “offset,” Sen. Mitt Romney (R-Utah) told The Hill, “I don’t think you reduce the number of IRS agents then expect that you’re going to get more tax revenue.”
“I think reducing agents means less tax revenue,” Romney said.
The Treasury Department said earlier this month that the U.S. borrowed $1.7 trillion in the one-year period ending in late September, a spike over the previous year that Biden officials partly attributed to low revenue.
The U.S. is currently running a $33 trillion debt, which spiked above its trend line during the pandemic as the government expanded major tax credit programs for lower earners and sent out checks to families while the economy was shut down.
As part of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) passed last year by Democrats, the IRS was given an additional $80 billion in funding over the subsequent 10 years. That allotment would have increased revenues by around $200 billion for a net deficit reduction of around $114 billion, according to a CBO analysis.
Republicans — dead set against strengthening the IRS, which has been in long-term decline —have claimed without evidence that the agency would use new funds to shake down middle- and working-class Americans at their doorsteps.
But the IRS’s enhanced enforcement efforts are so far concentrating on wealthy individuals, major corporations, and complicated partnerships that are often used to reduce tax burdens.
As part of an unwritten agreement reached over the summer with Democrats to raise the debt ceiling, Republicans planned to hack $20 billion off the initial $80 billion IRS funding boost through the normal appropriations process.
Democrats panned those cuts, pointing to CBO’s projection of tens of billions of dollars in lost revenue.
Some Senate Republicans critical of the IRS funding increase have backed the House GOP bill but acknowledge the budgetary impact could be a hurdle.
“If you’re looking for a pay-for, which they clearly are, I think it’s as good as one as there could be,” Sen. Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.).
“The challenge you’re gonna have is a CBO score.”
While Cramer argued the CBO “doesn’t consider the ramifications to the economy,” he said he expects the CBO could score the proposed cuts as “a net positive, albeit not a very big one.”
David Wessel, senior economic studies fellow at the Brookings Institution, argued the budgetary impact of the IRS cuts is “not that big,” particularly when taking into account the trillions of dollars the nation spends annually.
But that’s also partly why Wessel thinks “dynamic scoring isn’t really an issue here.”
“Dynamic scoring is about how will a proposal affect the GDP, how will it increase labor force participation, how will it affect productivity,” he said. “There’s no reason to believe that the kind of money we’re talking about with the IRS funding, if you dynamically scored it to death, would show anything.”
“I just think this is the ultimate in cynical Republican bullshit,” Wessel added.
Business, House, Senate, Congressional Budget Office, Inflation Reduction Act, IRS, irs funding, Israel-Hamas conflict, Kevin Cramer, Mitt Romney, Ron Wyden, taxes, Ukraine-Russia war A recent proposal by House Republicans to take billions of dollars from the IRS and give it to Israel for its war against Hamas is raising alarm from budget experts, who say the push would undercut the party’s calls to reduce the national debt. Since assuming control of the House in January, House Republicans have…
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The Cities Bracing for Trump’s Immigration Crackdown
In the wake of Donald Trump’s recent election victory and his promise of “the largest deportation operation in American history,” several major U.S. cities are bracing for potentially seismic shifts in their economic and social landscapes. As the nation grapples with the implications of this proposed policy, urban centers that have long been havens for immigrant communities find themselves at the epicenter of a looming storm.
Los Angeles, often dubbed the “City of Angels,” stands to lose more than its celestial nickname suggests. As a primary gateway for immigrants, the city’s vibrant tapestry of cultures and its economic engine could face significant disruption. From the bustling streets of Koreatown to the sun-drenched orchards of the Central Valley, the absence of undocumented workers could leave gaping holes in the city’s workforce and cultural identity.
Across the country, New York City, with its iconic skyline and melting pot reputation, faces its own reckoning. The Big Apple’s 5.9 million immigrants, many of whom are undocumented, form the backbone of industries ranging from construction to healthcare. The potential exodus could transform neighborhoods like Jackson Heights and Flushing, altering the very essence of what makes New York a global city.In the Sunshine State, Miami’s tropical allure belies the turbulent times ahead. Home to 2.5 million immigrants, the city’s economy relies heavily on sectors like tourism and hospitality – industries where undocumented workers often fill crucial roles. The potential deportation of these workers could send shockwaves through Miami’s economic ecosystem, from South Beach’s glitzy hotels to the agricultural heartlands of South Florida.
Chicago, the “City of Big Shoulders,” may find those shoulders significantly weakened. With 1.7 million immigrants in its metropolitan area, the Windy City’s diverse neighborhoods and industries face an uncertain future. From the meatpacking plants to the tech startups, Chicago’s economic resilience could be tested like never before.
In the Lone Star State, Houston and Dallas stand as twin testaments to the complexities of immigration policy. These Texas titans, each home to large immigrant populations, could see their booming economies stumble. The construction sites that dot their ever-expanding skylines and the service industries that keep these cities humming could face unprecedented labor shortages.
Out West, the San Francisco Bay Area’s reputation as a bastion of innovation and progress could be challenged. The region’s tech industry, often reliant on immigrant talent, might find itself grappling with a new reality. From Silicon Valley’s coding campuses to the agricultural expanses of the Central Valley, California’s economic powerhouse could face a reckoning. Phoenix, rising from the Sonoran Desert, could see its growth trajectory altered. As Arizona’s urban center, it stands at the forefront of the immigration debate, potentially facing not just economic impacts but social and political upheaval as well.
These cities, along with others like San Diego and Las Vegas, are not just facing potential economic disruptions. They are staring down the barrel of profound social change. Family separations, community fragmentation, and the erosion of cultural enclaves built over generations are all possible consequences of mass deportations. Moreover, the fiscal implications are staggering. Undocumented immigrants contribute billions in taxes annually, often without receiving the full benefits of their contributions. Their sudden absence could leave gaping holes in city budgets, potentially affecting public services and infrastructure projects.
As these urban centers brace for impact, the debate rages on. Supporters of stricter immigration policies argue for the need to enforce laws and protect American jobs. Critics warn of economic devastation and the unraveling of America’s urban fabric. What’s clear is that America’s cities stand at a crossroads. The coming months and years will likely reshape urban landscapes in ways both visible and invisible. From the foods we eat to the services we rely on, from the neighborhoods we call home to the very character of our cities, the impacts of this proposed immigration crackdown could be far-reaching and long-lasting. As the nation watches and waits, these cities – vibrant, diverse, and economically vital – find themselves on the front lines of a policy that could redefine what it means to be an American city in the 21st century.
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How Trump’s Deportation Plans Could Reshape Major Cities
In the wake of Donald Trump’s recent election victory, his ambitious plans for mass deportations have thrust America’s urban centers into the spotlight. As the nation grapples with the potential implications of what Trump calls “the largest deportation operation in American history,” cities across the country are bracing for significant changes that could reshape their economic, social, and cultural landscapes.
The stakes are particularly high for metropolitan areas like New York, Los Angeles, Houston, Dallas, and Miami, which host the largest populations of unauthorized immigrants. These cities, along with other major urban hubs such as Chicago, Washington D.C., and San Francisco, stand at the forefront of a looming transformation that could reverberate throughout the nation.
Economic Tremors
Economists warn that the proposed deportations could send shockwaves through urban economies. Mark Zandi, chief economist at Moody’s, cautions that businesses would face “significant challenges” if a substantial number of immigrants were removed. Industries such as construction, hospitality, and healthcare—pillars of urban economies—could face severe labor shortages.
Joe Brusuelas, chief economist at RSM, emphasizes the potential ripple effects: “The native-born workforce cannot meet current labor demands.” This labor gap could lead to increased wages, potentially rekindling inflation—a concern that looms large over city planners and policymakers alike.
Community Fabric Under Strain
Beyond economic considerations, the social fabric of cities hangs in the balance. Elena, a Nicaraguan immigrant in Houston, voices a fear echoed in immigrant communities across the nation: “I’m scared… This is my home.” The threat of family separations, particularly in mixed-status households, casts a long shadow over urban neighborhoods.
Immigrant advocacy groups like FIEL are mobilizing, advising clients to prepare for “anything that can happen.” This atmosphere of uncertainty could lead to decreased community engagement and cooperation with local authorities, potentially impacting public safety and community cohesion.
Cities at a Crossroads
As the debate intensifies, cities find themselves at a crossroads. Some, like New York and Los Angeles, have historically positioned themselves as “sanctuary cities,” often at odds with federal immigration enforcement. The impending clash between federal policy and local governance promises to be a defining feature of this new political landscape.
Meanwhile, the logistical challenges of implementing such a massive deportation operation remain daunting. Questions abound regarding detention facilities, transportation networks, and the sheer manpower required to carry out Trump’s vision.
Looking Ahead
As America’s urban centers brace for potential change, the full impact of Trump’s deportation plans remains to be seen. Legal challenges are all but certain, and the resilience of America’s cities will be put to the test.
What is clear is that the coming months and years will be pivotal for urban America. As Jason Miller, a senior Trump adviser, puts it, the plan is to “immediately reinstate” immigration policies from Trump’s first term. For America’s cities, this could mean a period of unprecedented change, challenge, and, potentially, transformation.
As the nation watches and waits, the story of America’s cities in the face of this ambitious deportation plan is just beginning to unfold. The outcome will undoubtedly shape the future of urban life in America for years to come.
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Donald Trump Wins 2024 USA Election
Based on the election results, Donald Trump has indeed won the 2024 U.S. presidential election, defeating Vice President Kamala Harris. Here’s an analysis of the key statistics and implications:
Electoral College Victory
Donald Trump has secured the presidency by winning crucial battleground states and flipping some key states that were previously held by Democrats. The final Electoral College tally is still being determined, but Trump has surpassed the 270 electoral votes needed to win.
Battleground State Performance
Trump’s victory was largely secured by winning several critical swing states:
- Wisconsin: Trump’s win here was pivotal in securing his path to victory.
- Pennsylvania: This state flipped back to Republican control.
- Georgia: Another key state that Trump managed to win back.
- Michigan: Trump successfully flipped this traditionally Democratic stronghold.
Popular Vote and Voter Priorities
While the final popular vote tally is still being calculated, exit polls provide insight into voter priorities:
- Economy and democracy were top concerns for voters.
- Abortion and immigration also played significant roles in voter decision-making.
Congressional Control
The election results extend beyond the presidency:
- Republicans are set to take back the Senate majority, securing at least 51 seats.
- Control of the House of Representatives remains undetermined.
Media Implications
The outcome of this election could be seen as a challenge to mainstream media narratives for several reasons:
- Polling Discrepancies: Many pre-election polls suggested a tight race or even a slight Harris advantage in key states. Trump’s victory, particularly in battleground states, may indicate that polls underestimated his support.
- Narrative Shifts: Throughout the campaign, much of the mainstream media focused on Trump’s legal challenges and controversies. His victory suggests that these issues may not have resonated with voters as much as economic and policy concerns.
- Voter Priorities: The emphasis on issues like the economy and immigration in voter decision-making may indicate a disconnect between media focus and voter concerns.
- Electoral Predictions: Many mainstream outlets were cautious about predicting a Trump victory, even as results began to favor him. This hesitancy could be seen as a reflection of broader media skepticism about Trump’s chances.
- Underestimation of Trump’s Base: The results suggest that Trump’s core support remained strong and potentially grew, despite negative coverage in much of the mainstream media.
It’s important to note that while the election outcome may challenge some media narratives, it doesn’t necessarily invalidate all mainstream reporting. The complex factors influencing voter behavior and the challenges of accurate political forecasting remain subjects of ongoing analysis and debate.
As the dust settles on this historic election, both the media and political analysts will likely engage in extensive reflection on the factors that led to Trump’s victory and the implications for future political coverage and analysis.
Bolanle Media is excited to announce our partnership with The Newbie Film Academy to offer comprehensive courses designed specifically for aspiring screenwriters. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to enhance your skills, our resources will provide you with the tools and knowledge needed to succeed in the competitive world of screenwriting. Join us today to unlock your creative potential and take your first steps toward crafting compelling stories that resonate with audiences. Let’s turn your ideas into impactful scripts together!
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