Staff Reports
The United States Senate is abuzz with critical discussions on tax reform, as Senator John Cornyn of Texas takes center stage in advocating for the extension of key provisions from the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA). With these provisions set to expire by the end of 2025, Cornyn warns that failure to act would result in a substantial tax hike for millions of Americans. According to projections, more than 62% of taxpayers could face an average increase of $3,000 per family—a financial burden that would further strain households already grappling with inflation and rising costs.
Cornyn’s push to preserve these tax cuts underscores their importance in maintaining economic stability. The TCJA initially lowered individual income tax rates, doubled the standard deduction, and expanded the child tax credit—measures that provided significant relief to middle-class families. If allowed to expire, these benefits would be reversed, slashing deductions and increasing rates across multiple brackets. For small businesses, the expiration of the Section 199A deduction could mean a top tax rate as high as 43.4%, a move that Cornyn argues would stifle entrepreneurship and job creation at a time when the economy needs it most.
The debate over taxes is intertwined with broader economic policies championed by President Trump, including his aggressive stance on trade. Cornyn has aligned himself with Trump’s efforts to renegotiate trade agreements and impose tariffs aimed at leveling the playing field for American businesses. He has highlighted examples from Texas, such as cattle ranchers who face barriers in exporting beef while foreign competitors enjoy easier access to U.S. markets. This focus on fair trade resonates with voters who feel left behind by globalization and see Trump’s policies as a necessary corrective to decades of economic imbalance.
Meanwhile, Cornyn has also praised the administration’s success in reducing illegal border crossings, noting that February 2025 saw the lowest apprehension numbers in decades. Under Trump’s leadership, policies such as swift deportations and increased border patrols have drastically curtailed illegal immigration, allowing enforcement agencies to focus on combating drug smuggling and human trafficking. Cornyn views this achievement as a testament to the effectiveness of strong border policies, contrasting it with what he describes as the failures of previous administrations to address the crisis.
As these discussions unfold, Senator Cornyn remains optimistic about the path forward. He believes that extending the TCJA provisions and pursuing pro-growth policies will not only provide immediate relief to American families but also lay the groundwork for long-term economic prosperity. By prioritizing tax relief, fair trade practices, and secure borders, Cornyn argues that policymakers can strengthen America’s position both domestically and globally. The stakes are high, but with decisive action, he envisions a future where economic opportunity flourishes for all Americans.
