The Impact of 2017 GOP Tax Reform on Voting Practices: A Nonpartisan Perspective

Does the amount of tax you pay this year because of the 2017 GOP tax reform influence your decision to vote for the Republicans again? It is a question worth considering, especially given the complex nature of tax reforms and their intended effects. In this article, we will explore the impact of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) on individuals and how this might affect their voting practices.

Nonpartisan Voting Practices

I do not align with any political party when it comes to voting. My preference is to support candidates who genuinely aim to serve the country, regardless of their political affiliations. However, unfortunately, such candidates are scarce. When they do emerge, a significant portion of the opposing party's base may oppose them due to their party affiliations.

The outcome of my taxes this year will not directly influence my voting practices. What does impact my decision-making is the misleading claims surrounding the TCJA. While I may not personally endorse Trump, I remain skeptical of the Republican claims that the bill would benefit the middle class. I believe it neither necessarily harms nor significantly aids the middle class but certainly does not provide substantial benefits.

TCJA and Tax Refunds

It is important to clarify that the amount of your refund does not necessarily reflect whether you are paying more or less in taxes. In the wake of the TCJA, many individuals, especially those in red states, noticed a reduction in the amount of money withheld from their paychecks. Consequently, while the majority actually paid less in taxes, the absence of a refund led to confusion and frustration. Getting a smaller refund does not mean you paid more taxes if you paid less throughout the year.

The Affordable Care Act and ACA Taxes

One aspect often forgotten in tax discussions is the Affordable Care Act (ACA). During a period of unemployment, I held an ACA-subsidized plan, but did not utilize it, leading to substantial reimbursements for that coverage. According to the ACA, individuals who opt for subsidized plans without prior validation of their financial status can be penalized. Despite my intention to avoid fines, I now face significant ACA tax obligations.

The ACA is a factor in my higher tax burden, and I hold the Democratic Party and former President Obama accountable for its implementation, which has resulted in large financial costs for me. The higher standard deduction in the TCJA has slightly reduced my effective tax rate for a similar income level compared to 2017.