Marsha Blackburn’s recent campaign ad proudly claims credit for preventing state income taxes in Tennessee. On the surface, this might seem like a financially good thing for the average person. However, Tennessee’s primary revenue source is the highest sales tax in the country. Sales taxes are considered a “regressive" tax, meaning lower-income earners pay a higher percentage of their income in taxes compared to the wealthy.
Consider this: a family earning $100,000 or less will likely spend their entire income to make ends meet, subjecting a large portion of their income to sales tax. In contrast, a family earning $10 million might spend $1 million on goods and save or invest the remaining $9 million. Thus, only 10 percent of their income is subject to sales tax. Tennessee has the most regressive tax system of all 50 states. Thanks, Marsha. A fairer system would involve implementing a state income tax and lowering the sales tax.
Someone aptly named this type of tax system “The Swamp,” acknowledging that the rich don’t pay their fair share. That same individual then implemented tax breaks that went predominately to the rich.
And, the GOP continues to work toward shifting the tax burden onto lower-income earners, with tariffs being their next goal. Tariffs are also a regressive tax.... for the same reason described above. When you hear the GOP promote "trickle down economics" know that the word "trickle" is accurate. The majority of the tax breaks are given to the rich, with a small portion trickling to lower income individuals.
It’s time for change. Let us become engaged by demanding a fairer tax system that doesn’t disproportionately burden lower-income families. We can create a more equitable Tennessee and ensure better access to healthcare and economic opportunities for all.
Kenneth Hurt
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The top 10 percent of individuals making about $170,000+, foot over 76 percent of the nation's tax bill.
Leah Geraghty
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I do not agree with Kenneth Hurt’s assertion that Tennessee’s sales tax is too high and we should lower it but implement a state income tax. I choose whether or not to spend my money and therefore I choose whether or not to pay sales tax.
If Tennessee were to impose a State Income Tax, I have no choice in whether to electively pay it. I am forced to pay a state income tax.
The state of Tennessee is in extremely good financial condition, so why do we need a state income tax? We are already tax slaves. My property tax is outrageous now and Marty Haynes is wanting to reassess every two years instead of four which will raise it even more.
Inflation is up 27 percent overall the last four years. How much more can people pay? Leave the system we have alone. Tennessee has collected $3.7 billion more than they expected this budget year and will finish the year with a $1 billion surplus. Why in the world would we need a state income tax? It makes absolutely no sense.
As for lower income people, if you are below the poverty line, you most likely get food stamps which are not subject to sales tax. So it is a moot point. Leave well enough alone. Once you get a state income tax, we will always have it. I would much rather keep the higher sales tax.
Tina Davis
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What kind of preposterous notion is Mr. Hurt attempting to make? Does he understand that Tennessee operates in the black?
Sir, the state of Tennessee dealt with this issue over a decade ago and had it written into the state Constitution. There will not be a state income tax in Tennessee. Refer to Tennessee Income Tax Prohibition, Amendment 3.
My suggestion to you is to move to another state.
Gary Snodgrass
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A few things. I am not a supporter of the state income tax; however, this thread contains some common misconceptions.
First, find out how much of our money Bill Lee is donating to businesses outside of the state. That money could be better suited in our state.
Second, most people living below the poverty level do not receive food stamps, this is far from true.
The people pulling the purse strings are making it harder daily. People have recently found it increasingly difficult to obtain TennCare or Snap.
Lastly, households in the bottom 20 percent of the income distribution pay approximately 12.8 percent of their income in taxes, whereas the wealthiest one percent pay only 3.8 percent. That is according to information supplied by the state.
Christopher Cooper
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Mr Hurt, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn sponsored a bill signed into law requiring big tech to report crimes against children (5/7/24). She introduced legislation to create a National Human Trafficking Data Base for children (6/13/24) and she proposed a trio of bills to address healthcare needs in rural areas.
She’s worked to cut wasteful federal spending, supported legislation to improve veteran’s care and benefits and has been a leading voice in keeping biological males out of women’s sports.
For those wanting to pay more taxes as some have indicated, nothing stops you or members of your party from writing a check 4 times a year with big increases. Just lead the way. While your pondering that one,
Marsha will keep working for Tennessee, not in lock-step with Chuck Schumer or yelling in a bullhorn as her opponent would do.
Ralph Miller