Rowan County congressmen vote to pass tax cut package

Published 12:00 am Wednesday, December 20, 2017

Local Congressmen Ted Budd and Richard Hudson joined their Republican colleagues Tuesday in supporting the tax overhaul bill that appears headed to President Donald Trump’s desk.

“For too long, Congress has promised but failed to close loopholes and fend off special interest groups. …” said Budd, who represents that 13th District, which includes part of Rowan, Stanly and Davidson counties. “Today’s vote moved us one step closer to delivering hard working American families the tax relief we promised.”

Hudson, who represents the 8th District, said the bill will simplify the tax system and deliver more jobs, bigger paychecks and economic growth for all Americans. His district includes parts of Rowan, Cabarrus and Stanly counties.

“History shows us pro-growth tax cuts give us tremendous job growth, more opportunities and increased wages for working families,” said Hudson. “This is our generation’s chance. With this historic tax cut, low- and middle-income individuals and families will have more take-home pay and more opportunity to achieve the American dream.”

A Democrat who is running for Budd’s seat in the 2018 election said she is disappointed that the bill moved forward.

“Just like Washington, our tax code is broken and politicians like Ted Budd are making it worse, …” said Kathy Manning of Greensboro. “(Budd) voted to explode the deficit and jeopardize health coverage for thousands of his own constituents. Our community is ready for a representative who will work across party lines to find real solutions. …”

The bill was passed 227-203. Only 12 Republicans voted no.

Rep. Walter B. Jones of North Carolina’s 3rd District was one of the no votes.

“I’m all for tax reform, but it must grow the economy, not the debt,” Jones said. “Unfortunately, the tax bill voted on today will be financed not by cutting spending elsewhere in the budget, but by adding $2 trillion to America’s debt.”