Vice President Kamala Harris made a significant pledge during a rally at the University of Nevada at Las Vegas, promising to eliminate federal taxes on tips paid to workers in the service industry. Harris, who emphasized her commitment to supporting working families, highlighted her past efforts in fighting for labor rights.
During her speech, Harris referenced her tenure as attorney general of California, where she worked to combat wage theft, and her time as a U.S. senator, advocating for paid family and medical leave. She also mentioned her support for raising the minimum wage and her promise to eliminate taxes on tips for service and hospitality workers.
Harris received the endorsement of the Culinary Workers Union Local 226, a significant union representing service and hospitality workers in Las Vegas. She expressed her dedication to continuing the fight for the working families of America, citing a recent contract win celebrated in Vegas as a testament to her commitment.
Former President Trump quickly responded to Harris's announcement, claiming that she had copied his policy of eliminating taxes on tips. Trump asserted that Harris was using the idea for political gain and criticized her proposed tax increases.
Notably, Trump had previously pledged a similar policy during a visit to Las Vegas in June, promising to exempt tips from taxes to benefit workers in the service industry. He emphasized the importance of recognizing the hard work of service employees and ensuring they receive fair treatment.
The debate over taxes on tips continues to be a point of contention, with both Harris and Trump vying to address the issue in their respective platforms. As the political discourse unfolds, the impact of these policy proposals on service workers remains a key focus for both parties.
