Today: Trump in Las Vegas to promote tax policies

Trump Promotes Tax Policies in Las Vegas

LAS VEGAS — President Donald Trump visited Las Vegas to discuss his tax policies just a day after the federal tax return deadline.

During a roundtable at the AC Hotel in downtown, he characterized the U.S. economy as “booming.” Trump noted that Las Vegas is the “birthplace of ‘tipping tax exemption,'” reflecting its high concentration of hospitality workers.

He claimed that many professions, including barbers and workers in hospitality, are seeing larger tax refunds this year. There’s been a “significant increase in take-home pay” and taxpayers have received over $30 billion in refunds, according to him.

Trump mentioned that small businesses, such as cleaners and restaurants, are benefiting from recent tax cuts. He also discussed tariffs, stating that foreign tariffs have led to $18 trillion in economic investment and boosted drug manufacturing in the U.S.

He expressed strong support for the adjustments made in the previous year’s tax settlement, dubbed the “One Big Beautiful Bill,” which has suspended taxes on tips, overtime pay, and Social Security until 2028.

Regarding new car purchases, the White House is highlighting a new deduction available for vehicles made in the U.S., suggesting that buyers might gain tax benefits based on the vehicle’s origin. Trump noted that discussions included how Americans could benefit from deductions related to new car loans.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent indicated that the program has surpassed expectations, with over 6 million people benefiting from the “tip tax exemption” and around 12 million from the “overtime tax exemption.”

At the event, Nevada’s lieutenant governor spoke about the state’s tourism industry and his efforts to promote travel. The tax exemption concerning Social Security received favorable mention during the discussion.

U.S. Rep. Susie Lee (D-Nev.) addressed lingering issues affecting Southern Nevada, suggesting that Trump should respond to rising gas prices and a decline in tourism linked to his tariff policies.

In contrast, Terra Anderson, a Republican running for Lee’s seat, praised the tax changes, asserting that while it’s reasonable to scrutinize policies, there’s still much to be excited about.

Nevada’s attorney general, Aaron Ford, a Democrat campaigning for governor, criticized Trump’s policies, pointing to an ongoing affordability crisis in the state. “Donald Trump isn’t the sole reason for our problems,” Ford remarked, also pointing to Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo’s role in the economic situation.

A spokeswoman for Lombardo’s re-election campaign countered that the governor has a solid record of protecting taxpayers and vowed there would be “no new taxes under Governor Joe Lombardo.” She criticized Ford for avoiding pressing questions, suggesting that his policies could lead to higher taxes.