Rep. Nick LaLota’s Proposal
Rep. Nick LaLota, R-N.Y., has suggested that he and his colleagues may go to great lengths to address their concerns regarding the State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction issue. LaLota stated that they would even consider voting against procedural measures, known as “rule” votes, in order to take down GOP bills. He emphasized the need for a conference where all members’ input, including their constituents’, is valued.
Coalition with the House Freedom Caucus
LaLota revealed that his coalition is currently in discussions with the ultra-conservative House Freedom Caucus, which has used rule votes to protest the GOP leadership’s handling of government spending. LaLota pointed out the shared frustration about the process and the desire for a member-driven conference, as promised by the speaker.
Impact on Tax Bill
The opposition to the tax bill, particularly regarding the SALT issue, is expected to prompt Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., to bring the bill for a vote under suspension. This bypasses the procedural rule vote but requires a two-thirds majority instead of a simple majority. With the GOP’s slim majority, they will need Democratic votes to pass the bill.
Concerns of SALT Republicans
Many SALT Republicans represent moderate districts, some of which were won by President Biden in 2020. They argue that failure to address the SALT issue, specifically raising the current $10,000 deduction cap, could jeopardize the Republican majority. These members are frustrated with being sidelined and are angry about the potential consequences.
Voices of Frustration
Several Republican lawmakers involved in the SALT discussions expressed their frustration. Rep. Mike Garcia, R-Calif., disagreed with the idea of opposing rule votes but acknowledged the New Yorkers’ feelings on the issue. Rep. Mike Lawler, R-N.Y., was particularly blunt in his anger, calling the failure to include a SALT fix in the tax bill “idiotic” and “political malpractice.”
Speaker Johnson’s Plans
It is reported that Speaker Johnson intends to bring the tax bill to the floor this week for a vote under suspension. However, the bill has not yet been noted on the legislative calendar. Johnson did not confirm whether a vote will take place this week when questioned by Fox News Digital.
Fox News’ Tyler Olsen contributed to this report.
