Trump is making a risky decision right now and he knows it.
In a bold statement Friday, President Donald Trump urged Republican lawmakers to think twice before raising taxes on high-income earners, warning that even a “tiny” hike could hand Democrats a political weapon. Still, Trump made it clear he wouldn’t block the move if it helps secure broader economic reforms benefiting working Americans.
“Even a small tax increase on the rich — which I would accept to support middle-class families — would be twisted by the radical left. Remember George H.W. Bush and ‘Read my lips’? That wasn’t why he lost — Ross Perot split the vote. But still, Republicans should avoid it. That said, I’m okay if they go through with it,” Trump wrote on Truth Social.
America-First Tax Agenda: What’s on the Table
Sources familiar with the Trump White House say a proposal is being considered to let the top marginal income tax rate revert to 39.6% for ultra-wealthy individuals making over $2.5 million ($5 million for couples). This change would only affect the richest households — while preserving Trump’s popular 2017 middle-class tax cuts, which helped fuel historic job growth.
For seniors, retirees, and working families, this means no change to existing tax benefits — only a targeted rollback on the ultra-rich. It’s part of a larger push to build a Trump 2025 economic recovery plan that’s fair, pro-growth, and firmly against the Biden tax-and-spend agenda.
Conservatives Push Back on Tax Hike Rumors
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) recently told Fox News he’s not on board with raising tax rates — signaling that the conservative wing of the GOP still prioritizes low taxes, fiscal discipline, and a government that works for the people, not against them.
“I wouldn’t expect that,” Johnson said. “Our party stands for lower taxes and protecting the American worker.”
Meanwhile, House Republicans are working to balance competing demands: hardline fiscal conservatives want the bill to reduce the deficit, possibly through Medicaid reform, while moderates are lobbying for relief on the state and local tax (SALT) deduction cap — a high priority in blue states like California, New Jersey, and New York.
Trump Stands Firm on Protecting the Middle Class
Trump emphasized his support for the American worker, calling for common-sense tax reforms that lift the burden on small business owners, seniors on fixed incomes, and families still recovering from Biden-era inflation.
“I love the idea of the wealthy helping more,” Trump said in a recent interview. “But I’ve seen what fake news can do. We don’t need another political trap.”
The Bottom Line for Conservatives
If this provision makes it into the final Trump agenda bill, it will likely face resistance from conservative lawmakers and grassroots activists who have fought for decades to make “no new taxes” a core Republican principle.
Still, Trump’s strategy reflects a leader who’s willing to fight for the forgotten Americans — even if it means playing 4D chess with Washington insiders.
Key Takeaways:
- Trump supports keeping middle-class tax cuts in place.
- Wealthy Americans may face a limited tax rate rollback, but only at the highest income levels.
- The proposal aims to balance the budget, protect Social Security, and prioritize working Americans over elites.