Overview
- President Trump reportedly urged Speaker Mike Johnson to consider raising the top income tax rate for individuals earning over $2.5 million annually from 37% to 39.6%.
- In a Truth Social post on May 9, Trump expressed reservations about the tax hike, stating Republicans 'should probably not' pursue it but that he would 'graciously accept' it if they do.
- The proposed tax increase is framed as a way to fund middle-class tax cuts and protect Medicaid, aligning with Trump’s broader legislative priorities.
- Republican leaders remain divided, with fiscal conservatives opposing the tax hike and moderates advocating for measures to balance the budget without cutting Medicaid or other safety net programs.
- The GOP faces a tight timeline to pass the bill under reconciliation rules, which allow for a simple majority vote in the Senate, as key committee markups are scheduled for next week.