Senator Lankford on Trump's Tax Bill, LA Riots, and Homeland Security

"Big Beautiful Bill" Tax Reform

• 💡 Senator James Lankford discusses technical corrections to the "big beautiful bill," aiming for permanent full expensing for small businesses and manufacturers, a change from the House's 5-year proposal.
• 🎯 The bill seeks to establish permanent tax rates for corporations, pass-throughs, and individuals, preventing future calendar-driven tax increases.
• 🔑 A key focus is pushing back against retaliatory tax measures like digital services taxes and OECD pillar taxes, countering what is described as an attempt by the Biden administration to create a new international tax code without congressional approval.
• 💰 The bill aims to create a tax code designed for and working for American companies.

SALT Deduction and Fiscal Concerns

• ⚠️ The Senate is reportedly not enthusiastic about increasing the SALT (State and Local Taxes) deduction, which is estimated to cost federal taxpayers $353 billion.
• 📉 Lankford suggests that individuals in high-tax states should consider moving out of those states rather than punishing lower-tax states.
• 📊 While acknowledging concerns about debt and deficit, Lankford advocates for passing as much spending reduction as possible in the current bill, rather than doing nothing.

Response to Los Angeles Riots

• ⚖️ Senator Lankford emphasizes the need for basic law and order, criticizing Governor Newsom for seemingly celebrating illegal activity.
• 🚫 He states that while peaceful protest is acceptable, actions like throwing bricks, smashing federal buildings, and setting cars on fire are illegal and unacceptable.
• 🇺🇸 Lankford aligns with President Trump's stance on enforcing law and order and distinguishing between legal and illegal immigration.

Homeland Security and Global Events

• 🗓️ The Senate Homeland Security Committee is preparing for major global events including the 2026 World Cup, 2028 Olympic Games, and the US's 250th birthday.
• ✈️ Concerns were raised about the Biden administration's preparedness for these events, with the committee finding them behind schedule in areas like airport readiness and visa processing.
• 🦠 The hearing also addressed threats to the homeland, including instances of individuals bringing pathogens into the country.