Will Ron DeSantis Abolish the IRS if Elected President in 2024? Examining DeSantis's Tax Reform Proposals
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has sparked considerable debate with his ambitious proposals to reform the U.S. tax system. A key element of his platform, particularly as a Republican presidential contender, involves drastically reshaping the role of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). But will Ron DeSantis abolish the IRS if elected as president in 2024?
DeSantis's Plan to Eliminate Federal Agencies, Including the IRS
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R-FL) this week joined a line of Republican candidates who, over the years, have made far-fetched promises to eliminate entire federal agencies if elected. Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis is claiming that if he was elected president, he would want to reduce the size and scope of government. During a CNN town hall, DeSantis articulated his vision for a smaller government, stating that, If elected, Gov. DeSantis says he supports a flat tax—a single national income tax rate, with no deductions or exemptions—and would abolish the Internal Revenue Service.
According to DeSantis, the IRS is one of four federal departments he would target for elimination. DeSantis responded with a list of federal departments he would eliminate: “We would do Education, we would do Commerce, we’d do Energy, and we would do IRS.” Florida Gov. and Republican presidential candidate Ron DeSantis said that if elected president, he would seek to replace the federal income tax with a flat tax and get rid of the current IRS system.
Replacing the IRS: The Flat Tax Proposal
DeSantis's plan to abolish the IRS is intrinsically linked to his support for a flat tax. He envisions a single national income tax rate, eliminating deductions and exemptions. This significant overhaul aims to simplify the tax code and reduce the administrative burden of the current system. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has proposed a significant overhaul of the U.S. tax system, and his commitment to abolishing the IRS is central to this vision.
Potential Impacts and Challenges
Eliminating the IRS and implementing a flat tax would have profound impacts on the U.S. economy. Supporters argue it would stimulate economic growth and reduce government overreach. However, critics raise concerns about potential revenue shortfalls and the fairness of a flat tax system, particularly for low-income individuals. The complexities of transitioning to a new tax system also present significant challenges.
Conclusion: The Future of the IRS Under a DeSantis Presidency
Whether Ron DeSantis will abolish the IRS if elected president remains to be seen. While he has repeatedly stated his intention to do so, the feasibility and consequences of such a drastic change are subjects of ongoing debate. As the 2024 presidential election approaches, DeSantis's tax reform proposals, including the potential elimination of the IRS, will undoubtedly continue to be a central topic of discussion.