Rep. Rohrabacher's Statement on the current Congressional Tax Reform efforts.

11/7/2017

I am studying the various provisions of the House tax bill and I am participating in serious discussions with my fellow Republican colleagues about its contents. My goal is passing a tax reform bill that does not increase the taxes being paid by any of my constituents.

By the time this bill gets through the entire legislative process, having been acted upon by both the House and the Senate and is signed by the President, it will likely be a dramatically different piece of legislation. I will be doing my best to see that when all of the provisions of the tax bill are brought to bear, the tax load on my constituents will be less, not more.

138 Comments

Barbara Voelkel

11/7/2017 09:26:52 pm

If you do not want this bill to hurt your constituents, you need to make sure the state and local tax deduction is not eliminated, and there is no limitation on home mortgage interest deductions.

Nate Kelso

11/7/2017 09:53:52 pm

Exactly! Dana, we don't want increased taxes just because we live in beautiful California.

Catherine Coy

11/8/2017 04:27:10 pm

Just because? Just because?! You live here because it's fantastic here. EVERYONE would like to stow their cold weather gear and live here. The law of supply and demand--not our $20 trillion national debt--is what makes living here costly. If you want your entire mortgage interest to be tax deductible, MOVE SOMEWHERE ELSE!

Ken Kelter

11/8/2017 03:24:29 pm

Dana -

In addition to our concerns about State and local tax deduction eliminations, we need to index the Estate Tax, not eliminate it. That would allow the concentration of wealth in only a few hands. We need to index AMT as well.

This tax "reform" severely punishes the CA coastal towns.

Since when has a GOP tax plan said its ACCEPTABLE to add to the National Debt??

Brock P.

11/13/2017 08:52:59 am

In regards to your question, ever since Reagan tripled the national debt, that's when. Or more recently to quote Dick Cheney "....deficits don't matter...". In other words every time they're in power. I apologize if your question was rhetorical.

Catherine Coy

11/8/2017 04:09:39 pm

I do not agree with Barbara Voelkel. The main reason it's costly to live in CA--especially Mr. Rohrabacher's district--is that we have uncommonly good weather. Southern CA's "sunshine tax" is outrageous, but that's the price of being able to stroll to your mailbox in bare feet in February. Nearly the entire rest of the country will do quite well with a mortgage interest tax deduction up to $500,000. This limitation will affect relatively few Americans.

Likewise, if CA spent its constituents' tax revenue APPROPRIATELY, we wouldn't have to worry about the state/local tax deduction going away. That's the price of voting Democrat!

So...if beautiful weather nearly every day and turning the entire state into a sanctuary for illegal aliens is important to you, PAY THE TAXES and stop complaining.

Randall Krug

11/9/2017 11:57:57 am

I completely do NOT agree with Catherine Coy. Because we live in Ca and have high mortgages we need NOT touch those or state and federal tax deductions.The new TAX Plan as it reads now DOES NOT favor the middle class .....our POTUS needs to work with both sides and UNDERSTAND what it really says.!! Oh, yes and it adds 1.5 trillion to the national debt. How is that a "good" plan ?

Terii

11/9/2017 02:03:06 pm

Catherine Coy,we were BORN here and wish to remain near children and grandchildren in our old age. Weather has NOTHING to do w it. Doing away w mortgage and tax deductions will literally tax us out of our home.

Barbara Shapiro

11/8/2017 04:44:22 pm

Agreed! If you do not want this bill to hurt your constituents, you need to make sure the state and local tax deductions are not eliminated and home mortgage interest deductions are not lowered.

Sharron

11/8/2017 06:02:40 pm

I support eliminating the deduction for State and Local Income Taxes. The high tax states, all run by DemocRATS, will never stop increasing the taxes if they continue to be deductible.

Linda A. K.

11/9/2017 09:41:20 am

Sharon, Good point. High income earners and companies are leaving Calif. like they are being chased by a forest fire. The special interest groups; developers, home builders and real estate agents don't want to see the deductions go away because it took years to get them in place. It's just another way of transferring the tax load to other people.

Linda A Kinninger

11/8/2017 08:53:27 pm

I don't hear any renters complaining about eliminating federal deductions on property taxes, mortgage interest or state income taxes.
Why should the red states have to subsidize your lavish life style while you live by the sea in Orange County? Scrap the student loan deductions as well. No more free rides.
By reducing the corporate rate 35% to 20% you are going to see a flood of cash enter the economy This cash will be spent on increases money going into 401K's, salaries and business expansion. The economy will explode. Hopefully we won't see allthis growth taking place in the phones business, Facebook, Google

Michael B.

11/8/2017 10:39:45 pm

Renters should be concerned, they don't realize the indirect impact. People who own rental property will still be able to offset their rental income with the cost of the mortgage.
The impact to renters is that eliminating/restricting the deduction for mortgage interest and state/local taxes will make it harder for people to buy a house. They will continue to rent, and the demand for rental housing will drive rents higher. It will also cause a loss of jobs in the construction industry, as the market for entry level priced housing shrinks. In turn, those looking to move up to a larger home will have trouble selling their entry level home. It hurts our entire economy. Affordability is already at record lows. The tax bill as it is right now will make things worse. Please Dana, vote No until it's fixed. Do not depend on the Senate, it will fail there.

Joe Dixon

11/14/2017 09:56:13 am

If you think that when business owners or wealthy people get more money (due to a reduction in taxes) that they increase their employees salaries or 401k matches, you're deluded. If the investment in new jobs would result in a profit, they would do it now. Paying lower taxes on the profits just puts more money in their own pockets.

Cheryl Coleman link

11/8/2017 09:47:03 pm

The housing crisis is not even fully recovered yet in all States. Why on earth would any one mess with the mortgage interest deduction and property tax deduction.

Nancy Harman

11/8/2017 10:22:33 pm

I support you and Donald Trump, but not the taking away of the medical, mortgage, property tax, and local and state income tax deductions. These will devastate most of us in Orange County who have worked many years to afford nice homes and cover ourselves with long term care and Medicare supplemental
Insurance.

Theresa Abrams

11/9/2017 01:57:08 pm

We wholeheartedly agree. As retired life long homeowners in OC we still have large mortgages and prop taxes that save us from income tax on our savings on which we live. Not having worked for government we have no pensions! Just savings and some ss. Please look out for your loyal supporters. This one issue could cause us to leave the party and feel betrayed

Ann Brown

11/10/2017 07:45:32 am

Precisely. DO NOT allow removal of medical or state tax deduction. My taxes will soar without these!

Barbra Luce-Turner

11/13/2017 08:09:15 am

Please consider saving the medical deduction. Many of us have medical expenses above 7.5 of our income. Very hurtful if this ends. Compromise on state and local taxs...50% can be deducted.

Julie

11/12/2017 03:30:40 pm

I️ agree completely and I️ hope more people weigh in

Dee

11/14/2017 12:39:03 am

Please fight for Californian homeowners taxpayers and students... The mortgage interest rate and state and local taxes deductions need to be saved. Why are they punishing us? Our state gives the Feds so much already!

Cristina Thomas

11/14/2017 11:05:26 am

Please make sure the new tax plan does not eliminate the state and local tax deduction.
Thank you.

Catherine Coy

11/19/2017 04:23:43 pm

New Analysis Shows Mortgages over $500,000 are Rare in 95% of US Counties
http://nlihc.org/article/new-analysis-shows-mortgages-over-500000-are-rare-95-us-counties

The United for Homes campaign proposes reducing the size of a mortgage eligible for a tax break from $1 million to $500,000, and converting the deduction to a 15% non-refundable credit. NLIHC has released county-level maps of the percentage of mortgages over $500,000 from 2009 to 2012 for every state and the District of Columbia.

Less than 4% of mortgages in the United States were over $500,000 for those three years. For 24 states, the percentage of mortgages over $500,000 was less than 1%; North Dakota had the smallest percentage at 0.1%. County-level analysis shows that less than 3% of mortgages were over $500,000 in over 95% of U.S. counties, and in 90% of these counties only 1% of mortgages were over $500,000.

NLIHC analyzed Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA) data from 2009 to 2012. The county-level analysis covers both government-insured and conventional loans for home purchase or refinancing and is restricted to owner-occupied properties that are one-to-four family or manufactured housing secured with a first lien.

Toldja.

John Fisher

11/29/2017 12:34:44 pm

I'm a junior partner at a top law firm. If I'm not allowed to deduct state/local/property taxes, I will be paying more in taxes under this plan than I would be under the current system. CA also pays more to the federal government in taxes than it receives. Eliminating state tax deductions will make this much worse and we will essentially be funding West Virginia's economy. Please have the courage to prioritize CA - if you hold firm, they will address this. If you don't, they won't.

Cheryl Coleman

12/6/2017 10:41:22 pm

With the current California wild fires we now have more challenges. Fire and Hazard Insurance is going to sky rocket. It's bad enough that health Insurance had a tremendous increase in premiums. We absolutely can not lose our mortgage interest deductions or have limits oo eliminate second homes. Let's not kill the American Dream of Home ownership and put us back into another recession. This is a horrible time to even consider eliminating any tax deductions for mortgage interest .

Timothy Tyler

12/7/2017 08:47:32 am

I want lower State Taxes. This will make the Libs Super Rich leave our State or they will drive Moon Beam to lower State Taxes on all of us. Stop giving no-income benefits. I like low income while they go to school or training but not live on it. Five years max.

Heather Greth

11/7/2017 09:30:10 pm

This bill is NOT good for your constituents. The limited home mortgage interest deduction will increase my yearly taxes by at 10,000 dollars.

Catherine Coy

11/8/2017 04:12:40 pm

Heather, for your tax obligation to increase that much, you must live in a HUGE house! A huge house in a state with beautiful weather nearly all the time. Too bad...so sad. Pay the tax! Or move somewhere (brrrr!) not quite so lush.

Michael B

11/8/2017 10:43:53 pm

These are the constituents that Dana represents. Don't tell them to move! This tax proposal is a disaster for Dana's district. It will hurt homeowners and drive rents even higher as housing becomes less affordable. Wrong move for Californians, particularly those along the So.Cal coast.

Leibish earl Blum

11/7/2017 09:30:15 pm

We didn’t vote republican so the corporations that poured millions into electing Hillary could get a tax break
Build the wall & make sure illegals are exempt from receiving welfare

Lance Pinkham

11/7/2017 09:51:31 pm

SALT elimination hurts your constituents.
Houses in your district are way over 500k. The limit hurts your constituents. Elimination of the adoption credit is not pro life. Raise the AMT limit and index for inflation. The elimination allows too many games as evidenced by the presidents 2005 tax filing. You were willing to shut down the govt over debt hikes. This bill adds 1.5 trillion to debt. Unemployment is 4% This bill will not add any more jobs than are currently being added. Debt hurts your constituents children.

Jerry White

11/7/2017 10:04:01 pm

Why not provide a statement on your position on the elimination of state and local taxes? The current statement does not take any clear position!

Guy Harden

11/8/2017 10:51:42 am

Agree. Please make your position clear. It is not good to hear that Republicans in New York and New Jersey and speaking out in support of their constituents, but California Representatives are quiet. Want to hear you load and clear opposing those new taxes that will hurt...

Stephen Alfano link

11/7/2017 10:08:59 pm

You are my representative and if the state and local tax provision remains then you are raising my taxes. I hope you can stand strong and make the right decision.

Danielle Rigali

11/8/2017 05:13:42 am

Keep the SALT deductions! Thank you for standing up for your people, the bill as is will cause my family to lose our OC home! We need you! ❤️

Catherine

11/8/2017 06:44:47 am

Dana says reducing the mortgage cap “doesn’t matter” to him. Well, Dana, economists say (UCLA Anderson) it will matter to our existing home values. Limiting cap to 500k will push values down, limit New Home buyers and slow down CA economy. Eliminating the SALT deduction makes the negative impacts even worse. All BAD for us, your constituents. http://www.latimes.com/politics/essential/la-pol-ca-essential-politics-updates-dana-rohrabacher-on-future-homebuyers-1510100191-htmlstory.html

Tami Piscotty

11/8/2017 12:59:30 pm

Agree with you. This means my 22 year old son won’t be able ever live near me since homes in my area start at $1 million and need a $500k mortgage. Join us at @IndividibleOC48

Catherine Coy

11/8/2017 04:14:42 pm

Yup, the sunshine tax in California is costly. So...move somewhere where the sun doesn't shine 11.5 months of the year. Easy peasy.

Jennifer

11/12/2017 10:45:35 am

No one should have to move to take advantage of a tax cut. Why should I have to leave the community I have invested in to pay for giving others a small break on their taxes that adds to the current national debt. Eliminating the SALT deduction is effectively double taxation. That deduction in addition to eliminating the personal exemption, and reducing the tax brackets means many people in Orange County will be paying more taxes including myself. Stop trolling Catherine Covey. Are you Dana’s admin or a realtor in HB?

Kim Billingsley

11/8/2017 07:11:52 am

I agree with comments from Lance Pinkham. In addition, have to keep student loan interest deduction, which by the way, student loan debt is probably the next big economic crisis on the horizon.

Andy

11/8/2017 11:03:03 am

Please follow the lead of Darrell Issa and state your opposition to the SALT elimination. If you all hang together you can make us proud to be California Republicans and move this legislation in a much better direction. Republican leadership seems to believe that not passing this bill may cost you the House - but it seems quite clear that actually passing this legislation will definitely cost you the House (Dems will pick up 100% of the seats in NY/NJ/CA). Reagan was smart enough to stay away from SALT - focus on corporate reform and leave the individual system alone. Please!

John G

11/8/2017 06:31:34 pm

100% agree - just fix corporate tax. Add to the deficit if you want, we can see if it pays for itself. But no need to complicate things with individual system and create winners/losers based purely on where you live. If you lower corporate rates everyone should win - no losers!

Tami Piscotty

11/8/2017 12:57:57 pm

If you vote for either of these two sections, I will walk door to door against you: 1. Do you realize an $850k home in YOUR District would require a $500k mortgage? So basically my son can’t live near me? 2. If I lose the CA income tax on my federal income tax, LIVID will not be the word to describe ME and the 10 VOTERS of my FAMILY in YOUR District.

Catherine Coy

11/8/2017 04:18:14 pm

"Do you realize an $850k home in YOUR District would require a $500k mortgage>"

Do you realize what $850K will buy you in Missouri?! What...don't like the weather there? Too bad...so sad. That's what our lovely sunshine costs thanks to the law of supply and demand. Suck it up and stop threatening our Congressman.

BTW, you get the FULL mortgage interest deduction on your $500K mortgage.

Dan Lopez

11/8/2017 01:03:29 pm

The elimination of SALT deductions will be devastating to my family and Californians. Please stick up for us and don’t let them eliminate or make any changes to them.

Catherine OHara

11/8/2017 01:31:34 pm

If you're a "homeowner to be," use this calculator to see how much mortgage interest you can(not) deduct if the 500k mortgage cap is adopted. The average home price in OC is 675k. It's even higher in Dana's district. This means new homeowners will effectively pay more for the same house. Also bad news for existing homeowners. Existing values could tumble. http://www.latimes.com/visuals/graphics/la-na-g-mortgage-interest-deduction-tax-calculator-20171106-htmlstory.html

Sondra Darby

11/9/2017 09:00:09 am

Catherine: your calculations seem to contradict each other. How can someone pay more for the same house and existing values tumble? Maybe it is time for prices to tumble just a little, so more people can afford houses.

Catherine OHara

11/15/2017 09:25:37 pm

Sondra - Listen to the podcast. Loss of SALT + reduction in mortgage cap or (even worse) complete elimination of mortgage deduction will put downward force on home values. You might THINK that makes the homes more affordable for new buyers but at the SAME TIME, potential home buyers will be losing the ability to deduct mortgage interest AND property taxes thus rendering EVEN A LOWER PRICED HOME unaffordable. IRONICALLY, it would be the WORST OF BOTH WORLDS. If prices go down more than 10% I suppose investor groups and/or wealthy Chinese cash buyers could swoop in and make a killing.

Catherine OHara

11/15/2017 09:31:11 pm

Sondra - good question. Listen to the podcast for your answer. Ironically, loss of SALT + loss or reduction of mortgage interest deduction for new home buyers has a double edged negative impact. New buyers, without existing tax breaks, would only be able to afford a much much much lower priced home. Even if home prices go down 10% (which would be bad for existing homeowners) homes still would be mostly out of reach to new home buyers who will have limited ability to deduct mortgage interest and no ability to deduct property taxes.

Cory Scott

11/8/2017 01:51:49 pm

Removing the tax exemption for tuition waivers would mean that all graduate students (in Orange County and elsewhere) will suddenly be paying taxes on income calculated at $50K, while only receiving a fixed yearly stipend of $18K. My stipend is already barely enough to live on in Orange County. I am choosing to live at or near the poverty line in one of the most expensive places in the country, so that I can give back to my country by answering scientific questions that are critical to science and technology. Please think of your constituents, and don't dramatically increase our taxes.

Linda Patterson

11/8/2017 02:40:20 pm

I believe Congress should pass the most conservative bill with the highest tax cuts that actually can PASS both houses.
If we get tax cuts for many Americans, lower the corporation rate and the past-through rate, the economy can thrive. Republicans are more likely to keep the house and possibly get a bigger majority in 2018 if some tax bill passes.
If we fight about too many details and don't pass anything, we may never have our chance again as the democrats take over next year and add more socialized programs.
We all are not going to get what we want, some is better than none. Dana keep up the good work for us.

Catherine Coy

11/8/2017 04:19:44 pm

Linda, you are a true patriot. I hope all California voters can see past their OWN POCKET BOOKS to the good of the entire country that we love.

Don Fremming

11/8/2017 02:43:28 pm

Simplification is the key. The complexity wastes so many hours which would be better spent doing something productive, like making more money, conducting research, or spending more time with the family. I'm okay with paying taxes, as long as they are fairly collected and wisely spent. Sadly, neither is the case today.

jbl

11/8/2017 02:43:48 pm

End SALT deductions. The commenters here are selfish and don't understand that it is our State governments fault for taxing us to death. Fair Federal treatment will force a reality check.

Michelle Gouvion

11/8/2017 02:44:29 pm

If, through the legislative process, we are forced to give up our SALT deductions, maybe you can negotiate a phase out approach? Give us 4-6 years to elect more conservative state representatives who will be more fiscally responsible with our tax dollars. I also think the home mortgage cap for new mortgages should be higher -- especially in our area where most mortgages are over that cap.

Alfred Balitzer

11/8/2017 02:47:57 pm

You write that "My goal is passing a tax reform bill that does not increase the taxes being paid by any of my constituents." Your goal should be cutting the taxes of your constituents. But let us all stop thinking of our own self-interest. A tax cut is good for the nation and each of us must be prepared to sacrifice--sacrifice, that's a good word, sacrifice--some special advantages that we enjoy under the present tax code in order to reform our tax system, making it fairer for all and better for the nation. We need economic growth and we will not get it if we continue to hold dear to our individual tax privileges. Washington lobbyists and great organized interest groups are lobbying against this or that feature of the proposed tax bill. But let's admit it--self interest begins with us and how we each perceive our special tax breaks. I am like deducting my state taxes and benefit from doing so, but I am prepared to forego this if we can create true tax reform and a better environment for economic growth. In this way we will all benefit.

Catherine Coy

11/8/2017 04:21:39 pm

Alfred, you are a true American patriot. I hope all readers of Mr. Rohrabacher's email pay attention to what you've said.

Steve Wilburn link

11/8/2017 02:48:40 pm

Please fight for the continuation of the federal rax deduction for State and Local Taxes. The current tax bill diallows these deductions. This would result in a huge increase in taxes for us.

John Fugatt

11/8/2017 02:49:12 pm

Dana, keep up the good work in DC. We need to make sure the limit on both property taxes and state income taxes does not kill our working families here in California. This is the largest deduction most of us have. It will seriously impact our cost of living here as a result on our taxes. A limit may be a good idea but it needs to not impact the average working family. Thanks for listening.

11/8/2017 02:52:17 pm

By all means get rid of the federal deduction for state income & sales taxes. The vast majority of deductions enable government to favor some people over others. They should be eliminated, along with all tax credits. Drain the swamp and fight against corruption in government. A necessary element for honest government is to stop practices that favor some taxpayers and discriminate against the rest.

Barry Zanck

11/8/2017 02:52:21 pm

We need the tax cuts and hope they are followed with spending cuts, deficit & debt reduction. Reducing the mortgage deduction and not allowing state tax W.O. is a tax increase and hurts those of us that choose to work hard. Many in this country are more optimistic since Obama is gone and Killery (SIC) did not get elected. Get this passed so the tax, spend & borrower crowd loses in 2018. So sad to see the angry media is still confused on these issues.

Michael Gonzalez

11/8/2017 02:52:51 pm

I support the concept of lower business and investment taxes as well as fewer individual tax brackets with fewer schedule A deductions and higher standard deductions. Very happy. But truthfully I see about middle American net tax increase. Middle America is also a forgotten man in DC not just the working America. I want net taxes cut , tax relief, on the middle class. The middle class is squeezed always. Deductions shrink with productivity and progressive tax brackets bite the behind at the same time. Please publish sample tax calculations - for incomes between $100,000 and $250,000. How does schedule A eliminations and increase standard deductions and broader tax brackets lower my tax burden. Thank you. MA Gonzalez Aliso Viejo

Michael Dogali

11/8/2017 02:54:42 pm

If you fail to pass a tax reform bill,as was the case with healthcare,the Republican Party and likely you will lose the next several elections. The Congress must past bills that will have a positive effect for the most Americans. In point of fact California has done little for the Republican cause for many years.@

hatch

11/8/2017 02:57:12 pm

I have no problem with ending SALT deductions. Long term it will be better for our state to expose the "tax and waste" politicians. But most important is that we need to REDUCE THE AMOUNT OF SPENDING by the federal government. Taxes are the symptom, wasteful spending is the disease.

John

11/8/2017 02:59:18 pm

Impeach Jerry “MOONBEAM” Brown immediately!!!!

Kathy Taylor

11/8/2017 03:00:44 pm

You should suggest they phase out the salt deductions over five years to give the state plenty of warning to get their fiscal house in order and reduce state taxes. Otherwise, residents will be forced to move to no tax states.

hatch clayborne

11/8/2017 04:18:05 pm

Good compromise. I think a glass of wine is in order ;-))

Greg Herrera

11/8/2017 03:06:11 pm

Dana,

Thanks for reaching out to me and your other constituents to get feedback on the current tax reform efforts. We elected you because we trust you to do what's best for your constituents and the country. What's best for both is TRUE tax reduction for all taxpayers. I don't care HOW my taxes our reduced, so long as they are cut.

I also want to add that it is very disappointing to watch major legislative efforts, such as repeal and replace fail even though Republicans are in control of Congress and the Presidency. We are in the midst of a rare era where Republicans have been put in power to govern and to restore prosperity to the country. You and the rest of the Republicans can NOT squander this rare opportunity. I urge you and the rest of Republican congressmen to work with a sense of urgency to not only reduce the tax burden on Americans, but pass other major elements of the conservative agenda.

Fred Arnold

11/8/2017 03:06:57 pm

Keep up the good work. We appreciate your efforts.

Roy the Engineer

11/8/2017 03:07:29 pm

OPINION

What is the Solution to the “Gun Violence” Problem?

This weekend my family and I watched with great sorrow the report of another evil attack on innocent American civilians. This time at a church in Texas perpetrated by a domestic enemy.

Then, the human scavengers ran to the site of the atrocity to use the misfortune of others for their own benefit: for personal attention, news sensationalism and to advance their own power-grab by proposing new big-government regulatory “solutions to the Gun Violence Problem”.

This caused me to think: Which of the proposed “solutions” would have worked in this situation? A ‘Gun Free Zone’ sign in the church parking lot? Longer wait periods and more paperwork for gun buyers? A ban on the ownership of all weapons? A more extensive gun registration program? A limit on the type of guns that civilians can own? Clearly, none of the above would have helped.

This incident recalls memories of my own father who was an avid sportsman and gun collector in Texas. He worked as an Engineer for the State and he also served as a volunteer preacher at small country churches, just like the one in this incident.

On the days when he preached, while our family prepared to attend our local church, he would climb into his little car with a worn Bible, some hand-written notes and a Sheriff’s model pistol. He said that Texas law allowed people to carry a firearm “in their saddle bag when crossing County lines and it was better to have one and never need it than to need one and not have it”. Fortunately, he never needed it.

If I were to hear gunfire at the church on my street or at the day care center next to it or at the elementary school 2 blocks away, I would respond and try to help. But which type of weapon should I take? A semi-automatic pistol that was not accurate beyond 20 feet and had only 6 shots with limited stopping power? A small-caliber semi-automatic target rifle that was accurate and carried 15 shots, but also had limited stopping power? A high-powered hunting rifle that was very accurate but held only a few rounds and was long and cumbersome to carry? A shot gun that was powerful and easy to hit a target, but it was also long and held only a few rounds that were only good at short distances? All of these “sporting use” weapons are just not affective against armed assailants.

I remember posing this same question as a child to my father asking which of his collection of weapons he would use to protect our family. He said: “At short distances, here inside the house, the pistol loaded with “safety” ammunition that would not hurt unintended targets on the other side of walls. But outside, against an unknown number of bad guys, I would take my short semi-automatic military carbine and a few extra clips.” Today this weapon would be classified as a “banned assault rifle” with illegal removable magazines. But that is the correct tool that this specific situation calls for.

He explained that in other parts of the world, leaders of small armed groups of supporters were able to rule and impose tyranny over a disarmed civilian population. But in America, the power and the right to be armed was held by all civilians and guaranteed by the Second Amendment to the US Constitution. In times of crisis, civilians could rise up, form a militia and defend themselves from any enemy including evil individuals or even maligned enforcers of their own government. That was the people’s last line of defense against tyrants and dictators and the only way to ensure that the people remained free. For that reason, in his collection of over 100 firearms, he needed to have at least the one military style rifle.

When he passed away, I inherited his gun collection. But because I live in the firearm unfriendly and highly regulated California, I chose not to bring his guns here. So, if I ever find myself in need of a weapon to defend myself or others against tyrants or “evil doers”, I will be in the “need but not have” group. What will become of all those innocent civilians at the church, day care and elementary school down the street? They will be on their own and they will just have to wait for law enforcement to arrive, count the casualties and for the politicians and news media to give press conferences, express sympathy and propose new laws that will not help.

So what is the solution to the gun violence problem if no amount of regulations will work?

The answer is more guns legally born by honest civilians.

Even a small number of armed church members could have stopped the most recent assault. Better still, if it is well known that there are likely to be armed civilians in any gathering place, this transforms a “soft target” into a “hardened target” so that an evil coward will never come there in the first place.

I ask

J saunders

11/8/2017 03:22:23 pm

Tax robots for the social security the humans replaced would have paid into the system.

Harry Crowell

11/8/2017 03:25:27 pm

Many thanks Dana. No question many of the deductions that have been added were not part of the promises Mr Trump made and we must not allow these deductions to be removed. Income tax federal must continue to allow state deductions to be included, Mortgage interest has been in the system for a long time and homebuyers have used this to make their home affordable, with it removed home values will plummet down, property taxes are another nationwide deduction for all homeowners and should remain. Please get your message to all republicans so the tax bill will survive but with full relief to all.

Catherine Coy

11/8/2017 05:01:38 pm

Don't you get it, Harry? The proposed tax cuts are for the middle class--which are the very backbone of this country--not people who can afford to move to an expensive state (ahhh! sunshine!) and then expect the rest of the country to subsidize his glorious sunsets, inspiring ocean views and cozy mountain hideaways.

Here's an article that itemizes exactly how many American homeowners will pay higher taxes due to the limitation on mortgage interest. Not very many, relatively speaking! Yes, they're concentrated in CA and a couple of other coastal areas--but that's the price of living in one of the most beautiful places in the entire world. If you don't want to pay high taxes and not deduct your entire mind-boggling mortgage, move somewhere else!

12 Cities Hit Hardest by Mortgage Deduction Cap (cut/paste)
https://www.nationalmortgagenews.com/slideshow/12-markets-hit-hardest-by-slashing-the-mortgage-interest-deduction

Through the end of October, 5.4% of all mortgages closed nationwide (purchase and refinance) had a balance of over $500,000 at origination, according to Attom Data Solutions.

On a state level, Hawaii had the largest percentage of year-to-date 2017 originations over $500,000 at 15.1%, followed by California at 11.5% and Delaware at 9.3%.

More at the link.

Ken Kelter

11/8/2017 03:28:23 pm

Dana -

This tax "reform" severely punishes the Coastal Towns in CA!

We need to keep our tax deductions on State and Local Taxes.

AMT and Estate taxes need to be indexed, not eliminated.

Since when has the Republican Leadership say its "OK" to increase the National Debt?? What are they thinking??

Frank H Norton II

11/8/2017 03:28:52 pm

Thank you for giving us a place for our feedback. Those of living in Blue States do pay higher SALT taxes. The extra 5 K in the standard deduction will only off set some of that at best. I like using a phase out approach to allow us to get ready. Also there are a ton of middle class people with no home ownership so there should be a Renters Credit for those who pay a high amount of rent. How about the concept of leave in SALT deductions for 250K/500K (Ind/Married) and phase them out for the higher income earners. I would also like to see regional adjustments. 100K in CA/NY is a lot less that in say Florida or Arkansas. So a Cost of Living Adjustment for the Tax Brackets based on regional COLA.

Wendi Webb

11/8/2017 03:29:04 pm

No on this bill. Eliminate carried interest as well as keep Salt, college ed and other provisions that benefit workers. This bill is bad for working people and gives everything to business owners/corporations. Love business owners, but government shouldn't be built on the back of working people.

Libby

11/8/2017 03:29:29 pm

Pass the tax reform bill AS IS. Some of us will pay more taxes but this is a huge step in the right direction. #passtaxreformnow

Catherine Coy

11/8/2017 05:02:47 pm

Libby, you are a true American patriot. You care more about our country SURVIVING than your own balance sheet. Bless you.

Dorothy Boesch

11/8/2017 03:32:45 pm

Thank you for fighting for us.
Are medical deductions going away?
Are we being punished by not being able to deduct our state tax?

john gloger

11/8/2017 03:33:36 pm

We must keep the full mortgage interest deduction, AND the state property tax deductions. Otherwise, your constituents are unfairly punished, not benefitted by the tax changes.

Richard L

11/8/2017 03:34:04 pm

I agree with many others about not eliminating state, federal deductions for interest or other less than adequate deductions would be wrong. Do not give with one hand and take away with the other. How about actually reducing the budget by eliminating some programs and reducing all others. Government is way too big and too expensive. In addition this gas tax increase is horrible, criminal, outrageous. I pity those who must commute any distance to work. All our costs and services will increase...inflation!!

Katherine Kilka

11/8/2017 03:34:20 pm

I do not believe it is the responsibility of the federal government to mitigate the burden of state and local taxes- our state officials need to do that.
I do think we need to do away with AMT as it affects middle income taxpayers.
The mortgage deduction needs to reflect reality- although $500k may represent a huge home mortgage in many areas, the densely populated urban and coastal areas may be hard pressed to get a mortgage anywhere near that, much less under that amount. Do not make it even more difficult to afford housing in CA by limiting this deduction.

Larry Amor

11/8/2017 03:34:27 pm

I would expect any tax bill to decrease all taxes, income, capital gains (to no more than 10%), corporate, and inheritance. I would expect income tax rates to be lower than 25% for anyone earning less than $500,000. I also expect there to be no "penalties for how you file. If the government wants companies to bring their earnings back into the US, the taxes need be lower, much lower. The federal government needs to shrink a lot, say 40 - 50%.

Richard Fredrickson

11/8/2017 03:49:50 pm

California is a high-income state. Right now, the one-size-fits-all federal tax system taxes Californian's more than citizens of other states on average.
Index the tax rate in the same way the Federal Government adjusts employee compensation based on where they live.

Phyllis Finnegan

11/8/2017 04:30:00 pm

The issue with this tax bill, is that a huge group of constituents will be paying MORE federal taxes. The 35% bracket which encompasses those (combined too) making $200K and up, (to a million), actually raises taxes on many families. Most of those families are struggling now at 28-30% federal taxes, and combined with state and local taxes is over 40% of our income. The new bracket bumps us up to paying 5-7% MORE in federal taxes, which puts a family at $200K paying close to 50% in taxes. How is that in any way Republican, for us to pay more taxes to the Federal Government? There is an $800K gap in wages, being taxed more and the bracket needs to come up to a dollar level commensurate with being able to afford a 35% federal tax. This needs to be fixed. Also, I understand and agree with the comments above concerning SALT deductions. We need a bold tax cut, not a RINO carefully crafted tax increase to fund the government/special interests/etc...

Catherine Coy

11/10/2017 01:21:31 am

Phyllis wrote: The issue with this tax bill, is that a huge group of constituents will be paying MORE federal taxes.

It's actually NOT a "huge" group. It's relatively few people who have monstrous mortgages who will not see the entire $500K mortgage interest deduction work to their benefit. This article details the actual NUMBER of American homeowners as well as the PERCENTAGE of American homeowners who will be affected by the $500K limitation.

12 Cities Hit Hardest by Mortgage Deduction Cap (cut/paste)
https://www.nationalmortgagenews.com/slideshow/12-markets-hit-hardest-by-slashing-the-mortgage-interest-deduction

Through the end of October, 5.4% of all mortgages closed nationwide (purchase and refinance) had a balance of over $500,000 at origination, according to Attom Data Solutions.

On a state level, Hawaii had the largest percentage of year-to-date 2017 originations over $500,000 at 15.1%, followed by California at 11.5% and Delaware at 9.3%.

Remember, Californians with gigantic mortgages will STILL get a deduction up to $500K. That's no small potatoes. Don't like it? Buy a cheaper house!

Rod Bean

11/8/2017 04:34:54 pm

No one talks about the medical expenses deduction. Elimination of that deduction will devastate me because I am barely able to pay for my wife's continuous caregiving and medical expenses not covered by Medicare and our supplemental insurance plan. The saving grace has been our ability to deduct these expenses. I'm a republican but will not vote for anyone who is willing to destroy our retirement no matter how good it may be for the general economy.

Catherine Coy

11/10/2017 01:26:37 am

While I'm sorry that Mr. Bean must bear crushing medical expenses, I'm astounded by how many posters look only to their own situation and not the country's as a whole. How many Americans are in Mr. and Mrs. Bean's shoes? Very few, RELATIVELY speaking, yet if we don't do something about both the absurd complexity [tax reform] and doubly absurd tax burden that Americans face, we stand to lose the very country for which we work so hard. Something has GOT TO GIVE. Many countries have no deduction at all for mortgage interest, yet those who live in houses with gigantic mortgages (whose fault is that?!) turn their nose up at $500K!

Ian Campbell

11/8/2017 05:03:48 pm

Even though it may hurt me personally short term, I believe we need to remove the State And Local Tax deduction. Leaving these tax deductions in fails to put pressure on California State, local city, and county elected representatives to lower their expenses and taxes. Further, remove the mortgage deduction. Why should renters subsidize owners? Any effect on home prices will be short term as proven in the U.K. and Canada where they have never had the mortgage deduction, have higher home ownership as a percentage of population, and have high resale prices. Keep Federal taxes simple and Federal related - so we know who to elect and not to elect in future elections.
Re corporate taxes it's simple. If you want jobs, you need globally competitive companies. I want jobs and at most a 20% Corporate Tax with added incentives for new and small companies. This will keep America prosperous!

Catherine Coy

11/8/2017 05:50:42 pm

Ian, you're a clear-thinking American patriot! I'm so happy you posted here. I was beginning to think our entire state consists of selfish, entitled homeowners who can't see beyond their noses!

Lucas Doub

11/14/2017 01:59:08 pm

Fine, remove the loop holes like the state tax deduction. But remove them for everyone. Don't just target a few particular people in particular parts of the country. The adjusted average tax rate paid by corporations is 18.9%. I'm 100% for small to medium sized businesses getting a tax break and the proposed corporate rate of 20%. But then close the loop holes that large corporations have been using for years. I've worked in business long enough to know that more capital for large corporations doesn't mean more jobs, higher salaries, more movement of money, etc. The large corporations already have huge cash reserves and that hasn't affected quality of jobs or salaries.

Richard Batey

11/8/2017 05:10:54 pm

Thanks Congressman for working against a tax increase. Deductions are being eliminated as a way to avoid a higher deficit. But it just shifts the tax burden from one constituency to another. Tell your colleagues that voters can see through this ruse. The better way to "pay" for a tax cut is to reduce spending. I don't mind paying for police, courts and military protection but it is immoral to to effectively enslave tax payers to other Americans who are receiving our tax dollars. Coerced charity at the point of a government gun is immoral. That's a big target for spending cuts.

DAVID FAULKNER

11/8/2017 05:11:47 pm

Local taxes are a problem that we in California should reduce.they should not be used as an excuse to keep a write off.GET BUNINESS TAX DOWN AND ADJUST THE RATES.THE PERFECT TAX WOULD BE A FEDERAL SALES TAX IF YOU GOT RID OF THE PERSONAL INCOME TAX.😀😀😀😀

11/8/2017 05:58:17 pm

Surely you are familiar with the percentage of CA tax revenue that comes from the HENRYs. The last thing this state needs for its budget is to watch these people move to Seattle, Denver, Phoenix, Miami, etc. We can talk about the "middle class" all we want but we know where the tax base comes from. When they reach their tipping point California's finances will suffer their own death spiral just like Obamacare...

Arianna

11/8/2017 06:03:38 pm

Simple question. Who do you represent? If the answer is your Californian constituents, there is no possible way you can support HR1. Blow up the deficit so that CA can lose while other states win and then when the bill comes due everyone loses?? Come on!

George D,

11/8/2017 06:21:52 pm

As much as I don't want to pay more in taxes It's not the fault of the 40 other states that don't charge an income tax and don't have a state government more concerned about non US citizens than their legal citizens. I HATE LIVING IN THIS TOILET STATE AND I AM JUST WAITING FOR MY KIDS TO GRADUATE FROM A LOUSY SCHOOL SYSTEM RANKED 30TH SOMETHING IN THE WORLD AND RANKED #1 IN COST hmmmmmmmm

Suzanne

11/13/2017 07:05:09 pm

Actually, George, there are only 7 states that don't collect state and local taxes. 43 states would be affected

Doug Hosford

11/8/2017 07:57:21 pm

1) Short term, people and organizations should treated as equally as possible. Business's properly deduct costs from receipts to get earnings. So should individuals. Anything vital enough to be given to the poor should be deductible as a necessity. Education, food, commuting, housing should be deductable from earnings.
2) Long term "entitlements" must be reduced. Low hanging fruit first. Socialist style unemployment compensation should be replaced by privately owned accounts with IRA type government rules.

Michael Gonzalez

11/8/2017 08:30:47 pm

I think the best alternative is a $50,000 standard deduction and single 5% tax bracket. And a business \ investment tax of 15%. And of course spending cuts that ensure a balance budget.

Leatrice Frodsham

11/8/2017 09:42:03 pm

Congressman, just help get a tax bill passed by the House. Otherwise
we are sunk in next year's election and maybe in 2020. We have enough Rinos who will probably hold fast to not voting for it, so we need all of your votes!

Kim

11/8/2017 09:43:05 pm

Eliminating the SALT deduction is being taxed twice on our income. That is unacceptable no matter what the State tax amount is. I urge you to vote against any bill that allows this.
Reducing the mortgage interest deduction hurts all of your constituents. Rents will increase and home ownership even more unattainable making it impossible for young families to live here. A healthy city economy needs all age groups and our city is aging.
Iam beyond shocked that fiscally responsible republicans would push any bill that increases the debt. The tax bill in its current state adds to the debt that our children will be forced to pay.
Please join Darrell Issa and vote no on any tax bill that raises taxes for your constituents. Remember you represent us in CA48

Julie M

11/8/2017 10:04:38 pm

I understand that higher standard deductions are being put on the table in lieu of deducting state and local taxes (SALT) and limits on mortgage interest. Also, I am aware that the AMT already eliminated SALT deductions (would the AMT go away under this new plan?). But until I have a worksheet or form to fill out and see, I am unsure whether I am helped or hurt by the proposal. That said, I am in favor of simplification and lowering corporate taxes to make our industries competitive globally. Please publish a worksheet or form on your website. Thank you.

George Neiiendam

11/8/2017 10:16:18 pm

Lower the tax rates for everyone - especially the top 1%. When
Reagan slashed rates from 70% to 28% the economy boomed.and
tax revenues received actually doubled! (See the Statistical Abstract
of the United States Government.) Do a Grace Commission study
of government fraud and waste and eliminate useless programs.

John G.R. EYRE

11/8/2017 10:49:52 pm

I have been a registered Republican since 1986 (my first election as a new citizen). I have voted for you every time you were on the ballot. I do not need the most perfect Congressional Tax Plan ever designed. I need for the Republican majorities in the House and Senate to
pass a tax relief and stimulus package and for the President to sign it. If the Republicans cannot get the job done, I for one intend to leave the Republican Party. If I want the US stewed up by the swamp, I don't need to be a Republican at all - I can vote for either party. For God's sake support the President! and achieve something for all of us!!!

Sue Jervik

11/8/2017 10:57:59 pm

Thank you Dana,
Please support lower taxes for California! Please support continuing being to write off property, mortgage interest and state income taxes. These taxes are not inflated due to being the "sunshine state." Our increased taxes are due to the democrats wanting to subsidize everything. The homeless population and illegal population is placing such a drain here now, I don't think that my 2 sons who were born in Huntington Beach will be able to live here and support a family. Most likely will have to move to another state, and then my husband and I too. The only good news is, is that once the general public sees their taxes go up, they may see how wrong the democrat party has lead our state in an awful direction. P.S. Thank you for supporting HB and Erik Peterson.

jim

11/9/2017 07:49:36 am

How can you possibly support a bill that is clearly designed to inflict pain on California? This is not Reagan reform; this is a weapon. There is no intellectual honesty behind this legislation, just a series of excuses to justify hurting us for no apparent reason other than we must all be bad people because we live in California.

J saunders

11/9/2017 08:11:32 am

Executive compensation with stock options has made American companies too shortsighted and widen the pay gap with non executive workers. America was built by executives receiving wage compensation. Options created for founding a company is one thing. Options as compensation is greed. Tax these options at 90%.

J saunders

11/9/2017 09:08:20 am

The home mortgage deduction loss will be nothing compared to the loss of prop 13 protections that are bound to come from the Democratic single party rules in California. Generational Privilege will be the next attacking point.

Michael Gonzalez

11/9/2017 01:07:33 pm

I have read the replies with intent interest. We need to stop focusing on the crumbs (deductions) and see the plan (lower taxes, balance budgets). I support fewer itemized deductions, larger standard deductions, fewer brackets, lower tax rates, spending reductions necessary to balance budget now. We can reduce our command and control government and grow our freedoms and economies. Congressman please find the mix to lower net taxes. Stay with fewer than three brackets, cap (everybody’s) top rates at 10%, go hugh on standard deductions, and balance budget monthly.

andy king

11/10/2017 05:15:35 am

Balance budget?? Where does that come in? Our allegedly fiscally conservative Republican leaders want to add $1.5+ trillion to the deficit to fund a 10-yr giveaway to heirs and shareholders at the expense of CA, NY, NJ (immediately) and everyone (eventually, when the bill comes due). This is not a reform. Not even close. This is a giveaway to DJT, Sheldon Adelson, Wilbur Ross and the wealthy GOP donor class near the end of their lives looking to leave money to their children tax free. And our California GOP leaders, who we thought cared about the budget, states rights and double taxation evidently care about NONE of those things!

Jane Carpener

11/10/2017 12:19:00 pm

I would like to see the congress decrease spending. This is more of the issue than taxing. Much fraud and waste is where the monies goes and it is very easy to spend other peoples' money. If CA would lower it's taxes than other states would not have to subsidize us if we were to keep our deduction of state taxes. Also, discourage the class warfare of "working families", middle class, etc. We are aware of who pays taxes and who doesn't. Everyone should pay a percentage and then it would be "fair". If we all have skin in the game we all win (or loose) depending on your view point.

MARK GJOVIK

11/10/2017 12:43:57 pm

I oppose the House tax bill which reduces the mortgage deduction and eliminates the deduction for state and local taxes. Dana's district is filled with expensive homes with high property taxes, owned by residents who pay high state income taxes too. If Dana votes for this bill, then we will know he is working for someone other than his constituents. And that means I will be voting for someone other than Dana next year.

David Campbell

11/10/2017 12:47:22 pm

It is difficult to comment on a tax bill that, as you say, will be dramatically different by the time it is finished, so I will keep my comments general. First, tax reform would be much easier if the recent budget passed had cut spending and reduced the size of government. That being said, I dislike the fact that the Republicans have already embraced the concept of a deficit neutral bill and immediately surrendered to the class warfare of the Democrats by "taxing the wealthy". I was hoping for a much more bold tax bill than anything proposed. I realize there are political realities and that we need some Democrats to sign on. But you could at least START from a conservative position and make the Democrats fight for what they want instead of surrendering to them up front and then negotiating the rest. I might also suggest that the failure on Obamacare requires you to do much better on tax reform than simply moving the pieces around on the board, which is what it appears that the final bill will be. In other words, a fake tax reform bill, combined with the Obamacare fake repeal attempts, will not be enough to save the Republican party in 2018. A flat tax proposal would be bold. Just saying. (Note that speaker Ryan is making the same mistake on tax reform that he did on Obamacare. His claims that this is greater than the Reagan tax cuts rings as hollow as the pronouncement that "this is Obamacare gone" with the fake repeals.) Bold rhetoric only works with bold action.

John bradley

11/11/2017 03:46:11 am

This is beyond preposterous. Why should there be a tax increase (paid by us) to fund an even larger tax decrease (for others/corporations). Just take the net amount you want to add to the deficit and give it to corporations in the form of a tax cut. All this gymnastics to try to figure out how most to turn the knife in the gut of Californians is ridiculous. Paying State taxes is not a "loophole" of any kind. The deduction has been in the tax code for 100 years and many of us have budgeted our lives around it. This is really the cruelest thing you could ever support as our representative. There can be no limit to the amount of deduction you support - SALT can't even be on the table because once it is someone will come along and lower that cap (like the Senate is trying to do now). I never in a million years would have expected my GOP representative to be in favor of double taxation and higher taxation. What a world we live in.

Suzanne Dehritz

11/11/2017 08:18:51 am

Congressman Rohrabacher,
As you know there are only 7 states that don't pay SALT. California is one of the 43 states that does. I don't understand why you would side with the other states and not with your constituents. Every single one of your constituents would be affected by this change in tax law. I simply don't see how you could support this and really believe that you could be reelected.

Jan

11/11/2017 09:46:52 am

Double taxation is wrong. Dana you are wrong to vote in favor of the draft bill. Take a stand against SALT elimination NOW. I'm going out NOW to hold sign at Main Beach in protest of you and your position that so clearly hurts your constituents. Like others who have commented, I will actively support anyone who runs against you if you do not make the right choice. If Issa can do it, so can you.

Mon

11/11/2017 01:15:26 pm

Thank you and please replace governor Brown before he gets to make this state to be trashy all the way.

Chris Powers

11/11/2017 04:38:53 pm

Dear Congressman Rohrabacher,

You state that your goal in passing tax reform is that none of your constituents would pay higher taxes. Having been a CPA who has assisted his clients with the preparation of their business and personal income taxes for sixteen years, I can tell you that this bill will fail many of those in your district. The SALT deduction and reduced mortgage interest deduction will affect thousands of taxpayers in your district and cause them to pay higher federal tax. The elimination of medical expenses will hurt elderly taxpayers. I do not understand why you would support this legislation in its current form. I strongly urge to your protect the SALT, mortgage interest, and medical expense deductions for all Californians. If you fail to keep ALL your constituents interests in mind, I would be happy to support whoever runs against you in 2018, and to urge others to vote you out of office as well.
Sincerely,

Chris Powers

Michael Marquis

11/12/2017 08:21:21 am

Peter King (Rep R NY) has made statements clearly summarizing the detrimental impacts of either House or Senate versions as of 11/12/17. Small business, retirees, and generally higher/middle income will take a beating as written. Counting simple tuition waivers as income for mid and low tax bracket people is egregious and predatory. There are some sever gaps in common sense throughout.

William C

11/12/2017 10:21:21 am

When did State taxes become a "loophole"??? You really think the government is inefficiently letting me consume more "state" because we live in a state with taxes? You really think it is appropriate to tax the same dollars twice? You really think we should do away with 100 years of precedent overnight? Please tell us what is in this for YOU if you support it because there sure as heck is nothing in it for California in this.

I am really sad about this legislation. And I am just as sad about the inevitable end of the Republican majorities when you pass it. Never did I expect to be voting for the democrat who will run to lower my taxes that the republican raised.

Ron Higby

11/12/2017 03:02:53 pm

Dana, it is time we carefully identify the "swamp" that President Trump said he would "drain." It is very clear that neither he, nor the majority of his voters, realized the extent and depth of this problem. There are, what, about 4,000 lobbyists? And they contribute, how much, millions to the reelection campaigns of Senators and Congressmen. The voiced frustration of your supporters, Dana, are dwarfed by the magnitude of those exerting monetary influence to preserve the status quo. Therefore, I think it more realistic for you to commit to voting for a tax cut that has the least impact on your constituents. It is better to get something rather than nothing. If you and your Republican colleagues "snatch defeat from the jaws of victory again,' you will penalize our children and grand children to decades of Democratic majority rule. Please, be realistic, and vote for the least onerous package that is contrived by the cabal of Republican and Democratic leadership whose strings are pulled by the monied interests of the "greatest nation on God's green earth." (Michael Medved)

Cathey Ryder

11/13/2017 07:23:21 am

Protect SALT, mortgage and medical deductions for not only your constituents, but for ALL Californians.

Brock P.

11/13/2017 08:54:18 am

Please don't raise our taxes. Keep California's dollars in California.

Jackie G

11/13/2017 02:20:13 pm

The House Republican tax bill would eliminate the deduction for personal losses from wildfires, earthquakes and other natural disasters, but keep the break for victims of the recent severe hurricanes. Why penalize Californians for whom wildfires and earthquakes are distinct possibilities? But retain the deduction for states such as FL, TX, LA for whom hurricanes are frequent?

Protect Californians!

Will McCully

11/13/2017 05:01:17 pm

It is clear to me that the tax plan will hurt most Californians, especially in the higher cost areas. I am also concerned that housing prices may take a hit as a result of the interest tax deduction being reduced, removing a major incentive for people to buy a home. It also hurts larger size families by eliminating exemptions for children and replacing it with new large standard deduction. I really don't like this tax proposal. And by the way, whatever happened to Republican concerns about deficits?.

Stephen S

11/13/2017 06:22:45 pm

It's funny reading all these comments. You think Dana cares about your posts! Hahaha.

Scott V Kurtz

11/13/2017 06:49:30 pm

Repeal the Individual Mandate!!! Use those savings to keep SALT so everyone wins! Or just keep SALT - deficits don't matter, we all know that!!

Lucas Doub

11/14/2017 02:02:47 pm

Removing the mandate is one of the worst ideas ever and basically red meat for really stupid people. Insurance doesn't work unless everyone is paying into it. Thats the point. I shouldn't be MANDATED to pay ER Tabs for those who choose to not get health insurance. My wife who is a doctor shouldn't be MANDATED to work for free because not everyone is paying into the insurance system. That is a actually a very conservative view point that we share and proof that the current GOP only cares about throwing red meat to idiots in order to keep their corporate donors happy.

Patricia

11/13/2017 07:21:40 pm

Dana, you were wrong to vote in favor of the draft bill. If you want to support your constituents and make sure no one ends up paying more taxes: keep the deduction for SALT; keep the mortgage deductions, medical deductions and fire damage deductions. Make sure there is some kind of a renter’s credit. The majority of the tax benefits from the plan will go to the top 1% - eliminate the tax loopholes that are not being touched. Keep the estate tax! Lowering the corporate rate won’t benefit anyone besides investors unless you build in guarantees that lowering corporate taxes will result in higher wages rather than increasing shareholders’ dividends. And don’t saddle our children and grandchildren with adding 1.5 trillion to the deficit.

Michael B

11/13/2017 08:34:07 pm

This tax bill is corporate welfare.

I'm in favor of simplifying the tax code, but this bill is a step too far.

Upper middle class folks will have to pay more to support corporate tax breaks. Lower class people will have fewer public resources available to them.

Graduate students get fucked, teachers get fucked, home owners get fucked. Everybody except corporations gets fucked by this bill. Do the right thing and oppose it.

Joshua S

11/14/2017 03:30:09 am

There is nothing Republican in this mean-spirited, deficit-busting abomination of a bill. You already know this. Everybody already know this. I just can't figure out why you would allow yourself to be manipulated into supporting it. This thing is the beginning of Bannon getting his wish and seeing the GOP destruct in civil war. You can vote for something that benefits the 0.1% donor class but you will lose all the top 10% HENRYs like myself forever. I'm not sure where exactly we will go but we damn sure will never vote for the party of double taxation again.

Kelly T

11/14/2017 06:53:02 am

I am all for a tax restructure, but penalizing homeowners is wrong! The median Price of a home in California is over $750k. Reducing the deduction will impact home values as well Remove the dream of homeownership, which is good for families, communities,etc. purchase.home, it will ultimately put more pressure on the rental market which is already a problem. It will also impact jobs as each real estate sale accounts for 3 jobs.

David O'Shea

11/14/2017 01:19:19 pm

Dana, if you vote for this tax increase, in either the current House or Senate form (and there seems to be no reason to believe the SALT will be restored, uncapped mortgage interest, property taxes, medical expenses, unreimbursed business expenses) - well expect to be unemployed. This tax increase is going to take my son and daughters college educations. I won't be forgiving you, I will be walking door to door against you, and scraping any extra change into a Anyone-but-Dana campaign fund. Hard to believe that in 50 years, I have never seen a tax increase like this one (40%) from any government, until now, the 100% GOP government. I don't know who you guys represent, but it sure isn't me. If this bill passes, you will be finding a new job.

LIbby H

11/14/2017 02:50:38 pm

It appeared to me that those making less than $250k would be taxed less, and those making more will pay more. I think it will be impossible to EVER come up with a plan that reduces taxes for everyone. So I say if Trump supports this bill, vote for it, and let's move forward, rather than back into stalemate again.

James M.

11/14/2017 07:06:23 pm

Elimination of SALT will harm your constituents, like me. Vote NO. Repeal of estate tax will benefit a Trump and a few thousand multi millionaires each year. Vote NO. Reducing taxes on large corps will NOT create jobs, only increase in demand for goods and services will create jobs. Vote NO. Go on record with your positions, not the vague baloney that’s posted.

Shereen Walter

11/24/2017 11:03:35 pm

Tax reform will cause me and my family to pay more in taxes. We will lose the student loan interest deduction, property tax deductions and state income tax deduction. Please tell me how this tax reform will help my middle class family!?

Hal Rogers

12/5/2017 11:59:42 am

As a California Resident, I'm tired of all the wasteful spending by California laws, sanctuary cities, that stupid High Speed Rail joke, hiring an attorney to fight the Federal government about Immigration (Eric Holder is a dishonest, Lying jackass). If you want to help Californians like me, help defeat Democrats and wasteful spending in our State. We need the growth benefits of Federal Tax reduction. It's our fault that we have high taxes, not Washington DC

12/5/2017 01:55:47 pm

Thank-you, Hal. I wish more Californians, and especially Californian Republicans felt the same way as you and me. Merry Christmas.

Rep. Rohrabacher's Statement on the current Congressional Tax Reform efforts.

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