Republicans Debate Tax Hikes on Wealthiest Following Trump Signals

Republican lawmakers are currently debating a tax-cut legislation package that controversially includes the possibility of raising taxes on the wealthiest Americans, a departure from traditional party policy. President Donald Trump has expressed openness to a small tax increase on high earners to benefit lower- and middle-income workers, though he warned of political risks, referencing George H.W. Bush's 1992 loss linked to a tax hike. This stance has sparked mixed reactions among Republicans; Senate Majority Whip John Barrasso strongly opposed any tax increases, emphasizing conservative principles and warning of Democratic tax hikes instead. Meanwhile, conservative Rep. Andy Harris publicly supported restoring a higher tax bracket on incomes over $2 million if spending cuts cannot be found, aligning with Trump's recent position. The House Ways and Means Committee is expected to reveal further details soon, including whether tax breaks on tips, overtime pay, and Social Security benefits will be discontinued and how the tax deduction for state and local taxes might be adjusted. The debate also includes disagreements over safety-net spending cuts, with moderate Republicans and Democrats closely watching these developments.