Impact of the 2024 November Election on Tax Policies
Explore how the 2024 November election may influence tax policies, including the Trump tax plan for 2025 and its potential impact on individuals and businesses. 5 min read updated on January 16, 2025
Key Takeaways
- Trump's proposed tax plan 2025 includes reducing corporate tax rates to 15%, restoring 100% bonus depreciation, and eliminating the $10,000 limit on state and local tax deductions.
- High-income taxpayers and corporations might receive deductions and advantageous corporate tax policies, but middle-class households may receive greater credits and exemptions.
- Tariff ideas, including a 10% baseline tariff, may raise expenses for businesses that rely on imports, thus offsetting the benefits of tax cuts.
- Economic growth is expected to benefit from reduced corporate tax rates and investment incentives, particularly in the manufacturing and construction sectors.
- Critics warn extensive tax cuts may worsen the federal deficit, while proponents argue they will boost economic activity and government revenue.
- Congressional cooperation will be pivotal in determining the timeline and extent of tax reforms.
President-elect Donald Trump is set to take office again in January 2025 as the 47th US President of the United States. With that, the nation is bracing itself for another round of tax reform.
The Trump administration’s approach to tax policy will form the nation’s economic and fiscal landscape, continuing the legacy of his earlier tenure.
This year, Federal and state elections included 34 Senate seats, all House seats, 11 gubernatorial races, and multiple state legislative chambers. All of this forms the backdrop for consequential legislative shifts.
Tax policy stays at the forefront of these changes, making the November election tax outlook influential for individuals, corporations, and governments.
This article will explore some of the fundamental details of Trump’s proposed tax plan and the potential implications for businesses, individuals, and the economy.
How The November Election Shapes The Tax Outlook
Donald Trump’s return to the presidency has already begun influencing how tax policies evolve in the United States.
This is a critical period in which legislative and executive actions will define the path of economic policies, particularly tax reforms, on both the federal and state levels.
The November election tax outlook clarifies the predicted path of tax policies under the newly elected administration.
Historically, election results have directly impacted tax reforms since administrations utilize tax policies to stimulate economic growth and satisfy fiscal targets.
Tax policy has traditionally been a central issue in U.S. elections. For instance, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017 was a hallmark legislative achievement of Trump’s earlier administration, reflecting Republican priorities.
Likewise, Democratic governments have traditionally focused on progressive taxation. This means targeting high-income earners while reducing the burdens of middle- and lower-income families.
Trump’s reelection emphasizes the chances tax matters will continue to dominate voter and legislative conversations.
From the expiration of TCJA provisions in 2025 to new state-level tax initiatives, topics such as income tax brackets, corporate tax rates, and deductions are now under the spotlight.
The outcomes of the 2024 elections will guide how Congress and state governments address these priorities in the coming years.
The Trump Tax Plan 2025: What Could Change?
Donald Trump's 2025 tax plan contains major modifications to individual and business taxes. These acts reflect a continuation and expansion of policies legislated during his first term.
His strategy focuses on the following key elements:
- Lowering corporation tax rates, particularly for domestic production, to 15%.
- Restoring 100% bonus depreciation on qualifying capital projects.
- Eliminating R&D amortization restrictions to allow for faster expense deductions.
- Introduces new deductions for interest on car loans and other expenses for automobiles built in the United States.
Comparison With The Biden Administration’s Policies
Unlike Trump, the Biden administration favored raising taxes on the rich and corporations to fund social services and reduce the federal deficit.
These proposed tax cuts by Trump skew toward investment incentives and lower regulatory burdens.
Potential Outcomes For Income And Corporate Taxes
Individuals may benefit from Trump’s repeal of the $10,000 cap on state and local tax deductions, particularly in high-tax states.
Businesses will likely benefit from reduced corporation tax rates and more favorable investment incentives despite changes to foreign tax provisions (including GILTI, FDII, and BEAT), potentially having momentous consequences.
Potential Outcomes For Income And Corporate Taxes
Whether Trump’s proposed tax policies have positive or negative effects varies based on who you ask. However, most agree the impact will be substantial for taxpayers and the economy in general.
Income Tax Brackets
If TCJA is extended as anticipated, mid- and high-income will likely benefit. The plan could also bring forth deductions or exemptions for certain groups, including veterans and first responders.
Corporate Tax Implications
In his second term, corporate tax rates are expected to fall further. This could primarily help the manufacturing sector, with these cuts intended to bolster onshore manufacturing to strengthen US competitiveness.
However, proposed import duties, which include a 10% baseline tariff and higher rates on Chinese items, may raise expenses for some enterprises.
Congress’s Role
A unified Republican Congress will likely expedite Trump’s tax priorities through budget reconciliation.
With Republican majorities in both chambers, tax reforms such as corporate rate reductions and the extension of TCJA provisions could advance swiftly.
Impact Of Proposed Tax Policies On Households
Households across different income levels and business structures will experience mixed impacts from Trump’s tax proposals. These changes aim to balance economic growth with equity considerations.
Middle-class families could also receive tax breaks and credits. Additionally, eliminating overtime and tips from taxation could boost disposable income for hourly and service workers.
High-income earners stand to benefit from removing the cap on state and local tax deductions and other tax incentives. However, this could reinvigorate debates about income inequality and tax fairness.
Tax Policy And Economic Growth In 2025
Economic growth will largely depend on the implementation of Trump’s tax policies and their effects on the public and private sectors. It will be up to policymakers to balance short-term benefits with long-term fiscal sustainability.
Tax cuts for individuals and businesses could propel GDP growth and job creation, particularly in manufacturing and construction.
However, balancing tax reductions with federal revenue hinges on the overall economic impact.
Critics argue extensive tax cuts could exacerbate the federal deficit, necessitating spending reductions or future tax increases. Supporters contend that lower taxes boost economic activity, which, in turn, generates additional government revenue.
Speak with a Tax Lawyer
The policies enacted following Trump’s reelection will have lasting implications for the federal budget and economic stability. Decisions on lapsing TCJA provisions, corporate tax rates, and personal deductions will shape fiscal priorities as we know them.
If you need more guidance for navigating taxes amid the Trump administration, post a job on UpCounsel to find a tax lawyer in your state.
FAQs
What is Trump’s tax plan for 2025?
Trump’s tax plan proposes lowering corporate tax rates, extending TCJA provisions, removing the $10,000 cap on state and local tax deductions, and introducing additional tax breaks for individuals and businesses.
How will the November election affect tax policy?
Election outcomes affected the political makeup of Congress and states, influencing federal and state tax policies.
Fundamental points include:
- Income tax brackets
- Corporate tax rates
- Deductions
When will these tax changes take effect?
Most proposed amendments, including extensions or revisions to TCJA provisions, are projected to go into effect in 2025. However, some state-level initiatives may be implemented sooner due to legislative timelines.