Are Presidential Candidates Legally Required To Release Their Tax Returns?

Candidates Are Not Legally Required to Release Tax Returns

No. There is no legal requirement of any kind that presidential candidates release tax returns from any year. Indeed, there is a strict, strong constitutional right to privacy for all tax returns. Thus, tax returns can be released by an individual taxpayer, but cannot released by the IRS to the public. However, one Senator has proposed legislation requiring presidential candidates to release tax returns.

Despite the lack of legal requirement, for the last thirty years, almost all presidential and vice presidential candidates have released reams of their personal tax returns. Of 34 past presidential and vice presidential candidates, only seven — Brown, Buchanan, Huckabee, Forbes, Giuliani, Lugar, Nader — declined to release personal tax returns. Hillary Clinton has released her tax returns for years 2007 to 2014 showing that the Clintons paid more than $43 million in taxes over that period. For his part, Donald Trump has said that the tax rate he pays is “none of your business” and “I fight very hard to pay as little tax as possible.”

Are Presidential Candidates Legally Required to Reveal Any Financial Information?

Yes! Presidential candidates are legally required to file a “Personal Financial Disclosure” with the Federal Election Commission. But personal tax returns reveal different and important information, such as taxes paid and tax rate, deductions and credits claimed, charitable donations, debts claimed, offshore assets, and so on.

Trump has filed a legally required 104-page “Personal Financial Disclosure” with the Federal Election Commission. It contains general lists of investments in more than 550 different entities, and income from hundreds of different sources. However, unlike a tax return, this form does not show a person’s annual income and is not sworn to be accurate under penalty of perjury.

If It’s Not Legally Required Why Do Candidates Release Their Tax Returns Anyway?

Because it’s simply expected. Every major presidential candidate in the modern era has done so. Even Richard Nixon released his tax returns while he was being audited. Most voters believe they have a right to know how much a candidate pays in taxes, gives to charities, and claims in credits and deductions.

Are There Legal Reasons Why Donald Trump Hasn’t Released His Tax Returns?

In late March, Donald Trump released a letter from his tax attorneys and accountants attesting to the fact that all of his tax returns from 2009 forward are currently being audited by the IRS.

At a televised debate on February 25, 2016, Trump said, “I will absolutely give my return, but I’m being audited now for two or three [years’ worth] now so I can’t,” he continued. However, there is no legal restriction preventing auditees from releasing tax returns.

Image Source: dailybeast.com

Image Source: dailybeast.com

Billionaire Mark Cuban tweeted a suggestion that the reason Trump hadn’t releasing his tax returns was that Trump might be embarrassed that the Clintons actually “made more” money than him. Others speculate that the tax returns would reveal how little Trump has given to charity, in contrast to his “huge” claim that he donated more than $100 million to charity over the course of the campaign. Many also believe it’s because there are concerning ties between Trump and the Russian government, which his tax returns might reveal. The Washington Post collected all the facts known so far about Trump’s taxes, including that he apparently paid little or no federal taxes in several years. Mark Sanford, the Republican former governor of South Carolina, has urged Trump to release his tax returns.

What do you think? Should the law require that all presidential candidates release their tax returns? Does a candidate’s refusal to release tax returns affect your view of them?

114 comments on “Are Presidential Candidates Legally Required To Release Their Tax Returns?

  1. Avatar for Derek Pakiz
    • Avatar for Derek Pakiz
      Sherrille Humphrey on

      No I do not believe they should give their tax returns for the public to see I think the public is being nosey especially the news media and the Democrats insisting that Trump do that and this idiot in California who wants to not put him on the ballot because of that that’s BS all they want to do is find out crap about Trump so they can bash him and Bash him and Bash him and try to make him look bad like they’ve done since day one of the election so no I think it’s a personal private thing I wouldn’t want to release my tax returns to anyone what the hell business is it of theirs

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        mark manning on

        Not unless every politician, Judge and bureaucrat do the same. And especially people that donate to Black lives matter and antifa like George Soros.

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          Lifa on

          Trump is basically a dishonest person who doesn’t pay tax that’s why he doesn’t want to show it. Don’t understand why many still believe in him when the only thing he does is make him and family richer & without paying tax,

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            Larry Hattis on

            If you recall during the debates between him and Hillary he admitted he benefited from a provision that had been used by other wealthy families.

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        E S on

        Chances are if Barack Obama decided not to turn over his tax returns, the Left MSM would say nothing. I am absolutely sure if President Trump has done anything wrong ,we would have known about it long ago due to the fact he is constantly vetted, persecuted, and audited, and also because of the left, irresponsible constant media leaks and their “get Trump” mentality. Unless some law has been broken they can prove, it is his personal business.

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          M M Sands on

          If Obama had chosen not to reveal his tax returns, you can bet your bottom dollar that Trump would have been calling FOX every morning throughout the Presidency to insist that’s proof that he’s a crook. Hannity, Ingram, and Carlson would have been repeating same nonstop. The Right would still be clamoring about it.

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          Rita De Swaef on

          Except President Obama had absolutely no problem with releasing them, nor did President Biden and VP Harris. Of course they didn’t commit fraude like your orange “hero”. I’m sure YOU paid taxes the past years, tRump paid ZERO or less than $750, that for a so called billionaire.

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        Todd Jacobs on

        Huh? People only want Trumps taxes so they could “bash him”? What does that even mean?
        Funny, you don’t care that Trump publicly stated he would release his tax returns. I for one would like to know if a presidential candidate is accepting money from individuals or countries and would that money potentially impact future decisions if that person became president. That’s extremely important information to know.

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          MissM on

          Yes and yes! I want to know who ever I vote for is on the up and up! Trump didn’t release his returns because he has far to much to hide. If he didn5 he wouldn’t have made claims ge eoulx release his taxes, then turn around and fight tooth and nail to hide them!

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          Helen on

          You mean like Biden and his son taking millions from Communist China? And being compromised as a President? Trumps actions whike he was President showed he was beholden to no one, no special interest groups not even the Republican Party. He showed he was beholden to our country and its citizens.

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          Mikemin on

          so lets start with the Bidens! Lets make sure we go back to when Joe was VP to date! Further we want to make sure to look at the Chinese-Ukraine dealings between Dad and Junior.

          Reply
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          Earl R Ritter on

          Todd, Would you please show us your tax returns for the last 5 years? I’m sure you wouldn’t mind doing that, would you? Maybe the Biden crime family could release theirs, Pelosi ,v Schumer, and especially Liz Cheney.

          Reply
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          Kay johnson on

          You are exactly right Todd. That is precisely the reason that presidents should be transparent. Our national security relies on it. The person you replied to doesn’t even know that trump paid taxes to FOREiGN countries and paid ZERO to the country that he claims to defend. So much for “making AMERICA great again, huh?

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        Theresia on

        I dont think Trump should have to show his tax returns, he is not making an income from his present position, he has never been in a federal goverment position all his money is made through private entities. The people who should be showing their taxes are all the government officials who have made millions and million of the backs of tax payers. They are supposed to be working for us and they just keep paying themselves more and more

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          Terry Snowden on

          If you believe that trump doesn’t receive his presidential salary you’ll believe anything. Just because he told you that does not make it so. He was fact checked throughout the entire time he was in the white house and not one assertion he made was true. Research a malignant narcissist, you will find trump has all of the symptoms, which includes habitual lying. His taxes were NEVER under audit like he told you, his follower, while campaigning OR in office.

          Reply
      • Avatar for Derek Pakiz
        Kent on

        And why is donald so afraid to reveal his taxes. Donald says he can’t because he is under audit. That’s bull shit and we all know it. It’s up to him not the IRS. donald is lying to us again and again. And all you sheep that follow don’t care that donald lies every day over and over

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          Lois on

          No. There is no law or rule that any politician needs do release their personal tax return. They only want Trump to do it because of their animus towards him.

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          Beel on

          WOW. The ones I see lying every day over and over are the dems. BBBBBig Guy Joe doesn’t know anything about his sons business dealings ? Joe has “more important things to do” than going to the southern border ?

          Reply
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          Amar Amari on

          1/1/2023 … They released his tax returns…. Viola!!
          NOTHING WRONG WITH THEM.
          Another lie told by the democrats proven wrong.

          Just a political hit job. Now…. Hope the new House goes after ALL OF THEM…. PELOSI, BIDEN, HUNTER, SCHIFF AND NADLER. Crucify them!!!!

          Reply
      • Avatar for Derek Pakiz
        Vicky Pruitt on

        I totally agree with your comments . I don’t care about his or anyone’s tax returns . There is no law that says he has to . I only care about what the president will and can do for our country . Mr. President Trump has shown over and over again how he has helped our country . Why don’t people open their eyes . He cares about this country . If I wee treated the way he has been for his entire presidency I would have said I don’t need this treatment. He is a very strong man to have put up with all the crap he has had to endure. I have often wondered why he didn’t just say I do t need this treatment anymore . But he hasn’t because he is trying to help our country and I believe he is the only one that is qualified to do so . Biden is the worst possible person to save our country

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        Kelley Vilenski on

        Nobody has to “try to make him look bad”. His reputation has preceded him. He does a great job of that all by himself.

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        Sarah Hearn-vonFoerster on

        Noone has to make Trump look bad….he is quite capable of doing that by himself, as you well know if you are completely honest. “Avoid the appearance of evil”.. He needs to learn that lesson….fast ! Oops, too late! !

        Reply
    • Avatar for Derek Pakiz
      Patricio on

      I believe in the case of Presidents and Vice presidents, tax forms should be available to congress, at the minimum where a report underling potential conflicts of interest, and any potential financial crimes are given and that report is released to the public under the concept of an “informed public”. If the public release of the tax forms is ruled unconstitutional, this to me would be the compromise to make it constitutional. There is a greater need here than is posed to the individual, in the case of a president.

      The President is unlike everyone else in one respect, he governs everyone–individuals do not. Therefore an exception must be made in the case of presidential candidates. I do not buy the slippery slope argument ( in fact, it’s one of the fallacies listed in the Carl Sagan Baloney Detection Kit ).

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        T. Odaniel on

        My opinion is that all presidential candidates should have to release at least 5 years of tax returns and financial records (origonals?) To Congress, not necessarily to the public. Just to make sure they are not embezzeling or doing anything crooked or underhanded. But they do deserve their privacy from the public. I would look at congress moreso as their employer.

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        Susan Cummings on

        Presidents and VP’s are also citizens and have protections under the Constitution. No one is above the law, even those who claim to have reason to interfere in other people’s business. Democrats are not interested in his tax returns, they are only interested in Trump self-incriminating himself, which the Fifth Amendment protects him from such requests, and he and every other citizen have the privilege to say “no”. Rights can be defeated, privileges can not (Kowaluk, 2020). I think the real concern here is how little the Democrats care or know about citizen privileges or rights. Especially when they break laws regarding immigration.” inter alia.” (Among other things).

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        L Rucker on

        By that reasoning, thrm all members of Congress should be required to release their own!
        My tax returns are no ones business nor yours or the presidents.
        The so called “hush money” paid to Stormy Daniels is all the Dems are looking for. IMHO, it Trump is forced to release private information like tax returns, then so should all Congressional members.
        I suspect this is nothing more than another attempt to oust the duly elected President and yet a continuance of the tiresome impeachment attempts made by the Democrats

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          Pamala McBrayer Swinnea on

          Hush money is nothing new among rich or famous people. Non disclosure agreements are everywhere in the corporate and private world. An incentive or compensation for dropping a claim/lawsuit tends to resolve drama. Not always fair or good, but nothing new under the sun.

          Reply
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        Scarlett Butler on

        There is absolutely no reason, President Trump should release his Tax Returns’. If he did, then guess what U.S. Citizens, the Government could then require you to release your Returns ! There is no way, our Tax Returnes are our private business !!

        Reply
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          Melody on

          You do have to show your tax returns as citizens for many reasons, such as being evaluated for your trustworthiness in getting a simple loan… since this post was made, many states now require presidential candidates to produce the most recent 5 years in order to appear on the ballot.

          Reply
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        Timothy Adams on

        It is not a legal requirement by law, but out of all presidential candidates that years, I have not even thought about reading their tax return, have you? A financial disclosure is legal. It’s political.

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        Charlotte on

        No they have no legal rights to his tax returns. He filed the necessary tax disclosures he is required by law to file. None of your business what he does with his money he earned.

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        Amar Amari on

        I think we found out that The House has more power than the President. They lied about his for the last 6 years and all has been proven FALSE.

        Avatar for Mary Mock mmock
        Amar Amari on January 1st, 2023 – 2:55pm
        Your comment is awaiting moderation.

        1/1/2023 … They released his tax returns…. Viola!!
        NOTHING WRONG WITH THEM.
        Another lie told by the democrats proven wrong.

        Just a political hit job. Now…. Hope the new House goes after ALL OF THEM…. PELOSI, BIDEN, HUNTER, SCHIFF AND NADLER. Crucify them!!!!

        Reply
      • Avatar for Derek Pakiz
        Amar Amari on

        I think we found out that The House has more power than the President. They lied about his for the last 6 years and all has been proven FALSE.

        Avatar for Mary Mock mmock
        Amar Amari on January 1st, 2023 – 2:55pm
        Your comment is awaiting moderation.

        1/1/2023 … They released his tax returns….
        and there’s NOTHING WRONG WITH THEM.
        Another lie told by the democrats proven wrong.

        Just a political hit job. Now…. Hope the new House goes after ALL OF THEM….

        Reply
      • Avatar for Derek Pakiz
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      Evelyn pybus on

      If a president has to show his tax return then the congress and senate should have to show their taxes to the public lets just see how honest they are

      Reply
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        Pamala McBrayer Swinnea on

        How about a board of independent review by assorted public accountants, for key positions in government?
        Hey, all Federal employees/clearance holders get internal reviews…but not elected officials making and enforcing laws?
        Hmmmm. I am a little annoyed.

        Reply
    • Avatar for Derek Pakiz
      Je Skii on

      Let’s start obeying the US Constitution AND the law! Presidential candidates should release financial info to persons reviewing NOT the public AND financial info should be CLASSIFIED. question for readers: do YOU want YOUR financial info available for ALL persons to see??? I don’t think so; that’s how ID theft increases AND it’s NONE of your damn business! Research the person running, their ethics & past work; if you have more than a liberal pee brain to perform TRUTHFUL research, that will show facts!

      Reply
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      Anish Chandran on

      I think he should release his tax returns because if he does voter turnout would and could increase. But also if he really has nothing to hide he should not be afraid to release his tax returns. Us people deserve to know what kind of a person we are electing to take the biggest position of this nation. There are no disadvantages of making it mandatory that he does.

      Reply
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      Karen Westfall on

      Agreed. No and no. Does anyone really think illegal gains will be on tax returns? No one’s business. It might be interesting to see if incomes match up to the million dollar houses owned by so many Congress and Senate members though…

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      Scarlett Butler on

      There is absolutely no reason, President Trump should release his Tax Returns’. If he did, then guess what U.S. Citizens, the Government could then require you to release your Returns ! There is no way, our Tax Returnes are our private business !!

      Reply
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      JOHN COVICH on

      SHOWING TAXES IS NONE OF ANYBODY’S BUSINESS–THE ACT OF DOING SO WAS A VOLUNTEER ACT BUT THEN LIKE OBAMACARE A VOLUNTEER ACT HAS GOTTEN TO THE POINT OF SHEAR HATE BY THE DEMOCRATS THEY WANT TO SEE BECAUSE THEY LIKE A LOT OF OTHER PEOPLE WANTED TO KNOW WHY HE RAN —UNLIKE THE GOVERNOR OF ILL WHO IS REPORTED TO HAVE MORE MONEY THAN TRUMP AND HE BEING A DEMOCRAT PEOPLE REALLY DON’T CARE –IF ONLY THERE WAS NOT SO MUCH HATE BE THE DEMOCRATS —IMPEACHMENT —SEX SCANDALS– RUSSIAN HOAX —WHICH ALL TURNED FALSE — THESE LAST 3 1/2 YEARS COULD HAVE BEEN MORE PRODUCTIVE AND LESS COMBATIVE

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      John on

      I think they should change the law going forward because our past presidents have made millions speaking at other country’s that they directly affected whether it be in aid, easy tariffs, or polictical/Government persuasion. Leta face it these life long politicians become very wealthy and most every American will say they do not trust the politician’s regardless of party. We also need to put a cap on what a president can make after he leaves office.
      Lets make it law and we won’t need to have these discussions. If you dont want to be transparent please dont run!
      Transparency Transparency Transparency. No, it will not affect my cote now till they make it mandatory.

      Reply
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      Jake Speed on

      All candidates that have highest security clearance in the US should. It should be turned over and there finances and background verified by the DOD before he is even allowed to be put on the ballot.

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      Cmonkey on

      They should all have too release their taxes. Do you want someone, anyone who is being paid by foreign nationalists to give them favor. I dont care if it’s a republican or democrat. We don’t want anybody who could either be blackmailed or compromised by the info they gain by being president. A public servant that has that much power needs to be as transparent as possible without putting themselves in jeopardy. Trump would sell the country out if it would mean he gets more money. If you look like you can be bought and sold for money there will be people who try and sway favor and we all know trump can’t say no to money. It’s what drives him and makes him get up in the morning. He’s as corrupt as third world country’s are.

      Reply
  2. Avatar for Derek Pakiz
    NEWS2VIEW on

    Julian E. Zelizer, who appeared on CNN on Sunday, Jan 22, stated otherwise — which is what prompted me to Google whether indeed it is a legal requirement for now-President Trump to release his tax return. Prof. Zeilzer exclaimed “it’s the law” on the heels of comments made by other CNN panel members about the issue of Trump’s refusal (“broken promise”) to release his tax returns. While the media is busy roasting Trump’s press secretary for lying to the media about Inauguration attendance levels, the major broadcasters consistently allow people to sit on their panels who perpetuate information that is not properly fact checked because it is “off the cuff”. With the amount of punditry passing for “news”, it’s little surprise President Trump is so jaded about mainstream media. When you have Ivy League professors who go unchecked on national TV for spreading misinformation about what is and is not a legal requirement of a sitting president, there’s legitimate room for criticism of that media.

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      Jay Clarke on

      There s nothing factual about CNN s reporting ,yellow journalism at best.
      It is NOT a law for presidents to reveal their tax returns,just a recent tradition.
      Don’t think John F Kennedy ,when running for,President,revealed his returns.

      There s a narrative and an approach coming from mainstream liberal media.
      Present a narrative and then try to,find’’facts’to,support the narrative, even if the ‘’facts’’ aren’t factual.

      Reply
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      VJ on

      I am just an ordinary citizen … but I DO believe ANY candidate running for US President should be required to release taxes as a prerequisite to being accepted to run for office!! My point is … candidate Donald Trump was just an ordinary citizen PRIOR to being elected and THAT is when candidates should be REQUIRED by law to full disclosure of taxes!! If they have nothing to hide … there should be NO problem!! Even Nixon released his taxes while being audited … so why does Trump protest SO much? Actually … I believe ALL candidates running for ANY political office should be scrutinized for illegal activities prior to being accepted as a viable candidate!! What a novel idea for government officials; HONESTY!! WHY is that TOO much to ask for??

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    Saundra Buchanan on

    The reason I say YES to both questions is this…..if a candidate has some kind of financial ties to a country that is our enemy of some sort or had financial dealings with the mafia, etc., I would want to know and that would change my view of them.

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      Allie on

      All that is covered prior to taking office or a cabinet position.
      PS: you should have made demands on the Clintons and Obama, you know, that one who gave billions of TAXPAYERS’ money to HIS FOREIGN pals.

      Reply
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      JOHN M COVICH on

      EVERYONE —SOMEWHERE IN THEIR FAMILY HAS A CONNECTION TO SOMEONE ELSE WHO COULD BE CONSIDERED A BAD PERSON —MY FATHERS LEGAL GUARDIAN , AFTER HIS PARENTS DIED, WAS SAID TO BE IN THE CAPONE MOB BUT NOTHING WAS PROVEN —I WOULD IMAGINE THE THE CLINTONS AND OBAMAS HAVE MORE TIES TO RUSSIA THAN ANY OTHER POLITICIAN BECAUSE OF THE CLINTONS GETTING MONEY FROM THE RUSSIANS TO SPEAK IN RUSSIA AND OBAMA FOR HIS TALK WITH THEM SAYING THAT HE WOULD HAVE MORE LEEWAY AFTER THE ELECTION –TRUMP IS AN INTERNATIONAL BUSINESSMAN AND IT IS LIKELY THAT HE HAS TALKED TO A PERSON FROM ALL BUSINESS PEOPLE IN THE WORLD

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        Zylandra on

        I believe a President should release his tax returns to Congress, because everyday millions of hard working tax payers like myself are financially investigated before we are given an insurance quote – a job – a house – etc…etc…. Why should they be any different? Can’t I just get car insurance, a job, a house without you looking all in my credit report?

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      Tim on

      You actually believe someone engaged in criminal activity is going to put that on their tax returns? You probably also believe criminals will also register their guns.

      For everyone who wants to see any politician’s tax return, I say to you let us see yours.

      Your tax return is between you and the IRS (or Revenue Canada in Canada) and nobody else. If there’s a problem with your return, it will be audited.

      People are being too nosy and think they’re entitled to whatever they want.

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    Joe Sinagra on

    Congress should abide by the same rules on tax returns, not just the president . . . as they would have the same ability of some kind of financial ties to a country. Financial Disclosure would show more data than a tax return. There currently is no law that states a president must show their tax returns.

    Once in office, members of Congress enjoy access to connections and information they can use to increase their wealth, in ways that are unparalleled in the private sector. And once politicians leave office, their connections allow them to profit even further. As far as foreign interests . . . over 43 percent of all members of Congress took lobbying jobs after leaving Congress, landing positions with an average annual salary of $2 million.

    Members of Congress are subject to current insider trading laws. However, current insider trading laws do not apply to nonpublic information about current or upcoming congressional . . . because members of Congress aren’t technically obligated to keep that information confidential.

    Congressmen can get away with the type of insider trading that would send Martha Stewart to prison. They go into hearings and confidential meetings with business interests, understanding new legislation is going to come out next week, and are free to trade on that information.

    If you’re going to pass a bill that requires a POTUS to show his returns, Congress should be accountable to that same requirement.

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      Nancy Orr on

      I agree Congress should have to reveal their tax information. Also I have wondered why they want eight years of tax returns. Trump was not a public figure before 2015 at which time he filed the proper papers to run for presidentNancy

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      Allie on

      The man doesn’t take a salary. He is the first president who is actually trying to implement the agenda he ran on, and he is AN AMERICAN WHO HAS AMERICA’S BEST INTERESTS AT HEART. Hell, over half of the USA still doesn’t believe Obamacare a citizen, think he’s Muslim, &a Michelle is using some guy’s social security # from 1910 or so! Still want to discuss HONESTY?
      (Haven’t gotten to the Clintons. Lol)

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    Tiffney Massey on

    Simple fact is that the President of the United States answers to “The People”. If “The People” wishes to see his tax returns to ensure he is telling them the truth; i.e. being honest I think the President should be required to release the returns. With there being suspicious ties of multiple campaign officials to Russia and Turkey and with the money he is spending not only on vacations but on bombing countries too I think that it is only right to see if he has spent himself into debt and just ran for this job to spend more money that is not his. Trump’s tax returns will determine whether he is impeached or not and I think that has a lot to do with why he refuses to release them.

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      Jennie on

      Impeached? You think that the tax returns that he is not legally bound to provide will end up impeaching him? That’s wishful thinking, Snowflake. You guys just cannot get over that a republican won. And won’t for the next 3.5 years. Will Hillary then be carried into the White House (skirting the law that makes Mike Pence President) by throngs of people who drank the democratic kool aid?

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      Allie on

      Malarkey. Get your information in order.
      Oh, and my comments to Saundra Buchanan in the “P. S.” Section are also for you.

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      Dana on

      You are aware that Trump has donated all of his salary since taking office to different government agencies, small business administration, and towards research for alcoholism?I think if he wanted to spend other people’s money that he has been a businessman long enough he would have found an easier, less public way. I also believe that if he had something on those returns that would jeopardize his presidency that the IRS, (you know, that federal agency whose sole purpose is to what…? That’s right, investigate people’s taxes) would have charged him long ago. Good news for the American taxpayers, since the majority (Democrat) of representatives from each state has spent the past 2 years on trying to destroy our President, and spent close to 38(?)million without success, we get 2 more years of the House doing nothing for it’s constituents because they’ll try to impeach and are more concerned about trying to justify blowing time, money, resources on something that can’t be proven while doing absolutely nothing for the American people. Time that could have been spent towards climate change, homelessness, education or finding ways to help our veterans.
      I agree with @news2view, @allie, @isla, @JohnMCovich, @JoeSinagra, @jennie

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      Dana on

      You are aware that Trump has donated all of his salary since taking office to different government agencies, small business administration, and towards research for alcoholism?I think if he wanted to spend other people’s money that he has been a businessman long enough he would have found an easier, less public way. I also believe that if he had something on those returns that would jeopardize his presidency that the IRS, (you know, that federal agency whose sole purpose is to what…? That’s right, investigate people’s taxes) would have charged him long ago. Good news for the American taxpayers, since the majority (Democrat) of representatives from each state has spent the past 2 years on trying to destroy our President, and spent close to 38(?)million without success, we get 2 more years of the House doing nothing for it’s constituents because they’ll try to impeach and are more concerned about trying to justify blowing time, money, resources on something that can’t be proven while doing absolutely nothing for the American people. Time that could have been spent towards climate change, homelessness, education or finding ways to help our veterans.
      I agree with @news2view, @allie, @isla, @JohnMCovich, @JoeSinagra, @jennie, @scorned

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        Kay johnson on

        Donald Trump did NOT donate his presidential salary to any charity. Anyone that is familiar with trump would know that his love of the almighty dollar would not permit him to donate his salary. That’s not his way, his way is STEALING from his so-called charity, not GIVING! lol don’t believe, look it up

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    • Avatar for Derek Pakiz
      Janet on

      You said “we the people”…. not all the people think he should release his tax returns. So you think if “any” of the people want it he should give them????

      Reply
  9. Avatar for Derek Pakiz
    Tis Da Boss on

    Absolutely. And if I were running for President you bet your ass I would. It’s the right of the American public that the President be as transparent as possible so we can trust him or her. He’s a coward and clearly has something to hide.

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    • Avatar for Derek Pakiz
      Allie on

      Wrong. Financial Disclosures are required. Trump has submitted that. An individual’s tax information is his own. Period.
      PS: the man isn’t taking a salary, for goodness sake!

      Reply
    • Avatar for Derek Pakiz
      Jay Clarke on

      For u donkeys,do u think JFK revealed his taxes,FDR?
      What was Joe Kennedy hiding?

      Kind of like immigration,we have rules and laws. if you don’t like the laws,vote to change them,not break the laws as cities did w Sanctuary city status but then demanding more federal funding…regressive hypocrites.

      Reply
    • Avatar for Derek Pakiz
      Demsuck on

      The president is NOT obligated by LAW to show his tax returns. Hillary WAS obligated to release 30,000 emails on her secret server. But was able to smash her cell phones and bleach-wash the memory cards?

      Reply
    • Avatar for Derek Pakiz
      Shirley on

      There is no LAW requiring a President to release his tax returns. . . . . it’s none of our business. Lots of cool-aid going around.

      Reply
  10. Avatar for Derek Pakiz
    • Avatar for Derek Pakiz
      • Avatar for Derek Pakiz
        Demsuck on

        An individual’s tax information is his own. Period.
        PS: the man isn’t taking a salary, for goodness sake! The president is NOT obligated by LAW to show his tax returns. Hillary WAS obligated to release 30,000 emails on her secret server. But was able to smash her cell phones and bleach-wash the memory cards?

        Reply
        • Avatar for Derek Pakiz
          Kay johnson on

          According to WHO? The biggest liar on the planet?? Do you know that trump AND his family members used private servers while in the WHITEHOUSE?? Did you also know that trump’s son in law attempted to set up a BACK CHANNEL with RUSSIA while in the wh as a so-called “adviser”?

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        • Avatar for Derek Pakiz
          Terry Snowden on

          Yes he does. If you REALLY knew trump you would know that his love of the almighty dollar would not permit him to donate it. Trump is a habitual liar! I believe he’s a pathological liar.

          Reply
  11. Avatar for Derek Pakiz
    Scorned on

    Funny how States and Federal representatives are sponsoring bills to require tax return release, but no one has even brought up and pushed for the public release/proof of citizenship as part of the vetting process to hold any Government position that is required to be met, Constitutionally. At state and federal levels.

    Reply
    • Avatar for Derek Pakiz
      Kay johnson on

      Did you know that an immigrant has to take a test on America’s history before becoming a citizen of the u.s.? Yet a president can be as dumb as a rock on the history of the United States? Can YOU tell anyone how many amendments there are in this country, and can you name ANY besides the 2nd? Just curious. Can anyone on this site name all of them? Yet you expect an immigrant to name them. Double standard. We’re ALL immigrants in one form or another. Where did anyone’s ancestors come from. Wasn’t America.

      Reply
  12. Avatar for Derek Pakiz
    Pam Dickhaus on

    No and No. Tax returns are considered confidential. Although I have nothing to hide, I wouldn’t want mine to be reviewed, chewed on, critiqued and criticized by John Q. Public either. Primarily because they would find SOMETHING there, even though there is NOTHING there. That’s precisely what they would do to President Trump. The push for his tax returns is nothing but a witch hunt, anything they can do to try and get Trump out of office. If, somehow he is forced to release them, they will find Russian collusion (although it’s already been proven there wasn’t any) or ties to businesses in countries that are or could potentially be our enemies. There probably are ties to businesses, but those probably exist all over the world. The man is a businessman and a businessman conducts business with numerous entities in the daily course of operations. As far as Mafia connections as one lady commented – seriously? Do you really think something like that would be listed on ANYONE’S tax return. “Gave $10,000 to the New York Mob.” I’m sure there is none of that shady history in Trump’s returns anyway so that is a non-factor in asking for them. And who cares how much money he donated to charity? He is already donating his salary as President to different groups; in essence, working with no pay. So, my answer is not only no and no but and ADAMANT no and no. It’s nobody’s business.

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  13. Avatar for Derek Pakiz
    Marcelo G. on

    I personally couldn’t care less. I doubt he paid any meaningful amount given the enormous amount of tax deductions available to him or anyone like him. I myself will use any available legal means to pay as little as I can. I also don’t care to know if he has given any money to charity. I personally would not give a cent to any charity organizations, I rather do my good deeds in person rather than through a middle man. As to connections to Russians, we already know he has done business in that country prior to being President. Revealing his tax returns at the time he took over the administration would not have revealed a “collusion” with that nation since his taxes would have covered times prior to becoming President. So, no, I don’t care to see his tax returns. I’d rather avoid hearing the tremendous gossip resulting from his doing so!!

    Reply
  14. Avatar for Derek Pakiz
    Carlo on

    Presidential candidates should have to show taxes. Citizens have the right to know where income is obtained. If candidate is beholden to anyone or any outside interests. It is a policy against any possible corruption

    Reply
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      Kay johnson on

      lol lol. That’s the funniest comment yet. The IRS was in trump’s POCKET. It is the LAW that a president is audited every year and it was not done. Please know before you post.

      Reply
  17. Avatar for Derek Pakiz
    Troy on

    Releasing the tax return will show good faith and show the people u can be trusted. we need a person to work for us whether we support him or not only what you got to hide Trump is obviously doesn’t pay taxes, but claims to make America great Trump first!! Russian second. wake up America

    Reply
  18. Avatar for Derek Pakiz
    Troy on

    Releasing the tax return will show good faith and show the people u can be trusted. we need a person to work for us whether we support him or not only what you got to hide Trump is obviously doesn’t pay taxes, but claims to make America great Trump first!! Russian second. wake up America support him like you did obama ha ha….u lie on and on.

    Reply
  19. Avatar for Derek Pakiz
    Don Mitchell on

    There is no legal requirement for a nominee or a president to release their tax returns. My tax returns are my private business. If I feel that way, I have no right to impose another to release their return. If the tax returns have been accepted by the IRS, there is no reason for them to be questioned or held up for political scrutiny. The fact that others willingly released their tax returns is, here again, a unilateral decision on their part. In no way is it a precedent that compels any other person to release their tax returns.

    Reply
    • Avatar for Derek Pakiz
      Terry Snowden on

      You’re not, nor ever will be, the president of the United States. There’s no need to see your tax returns. A president deals with foreign heads of state; the American people need to know whether a president is giving preference to another country because of his business interest involving other countries and whether his foreign policies reflect that. A president should ALWAYS be transparent and NEVER lie, otherwise EVERYTHING he says becomes suspect.

      Reply
  20. Avatar for Derek Pakiz
    Lois on

    No of course not. It is not a rule of law or a requirement to run for office. The left want him to as another show of animus towards him. And the above comment that he is embarrassed that the Clinton’s earned more then he did is ludicrous. Hillary is a really huge crook so I don’t doubt she earned more then Trump.

    Reply
  21. Avatar for Derek Pakiz
    Candace on

    This is absolutely ridiculous and shame on you Supreme Court. How about we take a look at Nancy Pelosi’s and everyone else’s and watch the identity theft scammers have a hay day with that information. Ones taxes are nobody’s business but the IRS’s. Trump didn’t even want the president paycheck. So sick of the witch hunt. It’s getting really old and making democrats and liberals, look real stupid and petty. People are so worried about other peoples money. Just sad.

    Reply
  22. Avatar for Derek Pakiz
    A Seasoned, Licensed Tax Preparer on

    Stick to personal injury litigation. I’ve never seen a tax personal return that lists “debts owed”.

    Reply
  23. Avatar for Derek Pakiz
    Annie Lem on

    Yes and yes. The commander in chief and head law enforcement officer of the entire country should be above reproach. Publicly releasing them is not the law, but an audit by the IRS is MANDATORY. The last 47 presidents and presidential candidates have done so. ALL BUT ONE. The argument, “well, would you release yours?” is a fallacy and in fact, every nonprofit organization and every publicly held company does release tax information, and so do most Senators and Representatives – people working FOR THE PUBLIC should be subject to a higher standard of transparency, to show they have nothing to hide. And – you boneheads! – of course they will redact social security numbers and account numbers. I would show mine – but then I don’t CHEAT and I don’t go around bragging about how much money I make while actually losing it faster than a drunken gambler in one of Trump’s failed casinos. Why are Democrats obsessed with exposing him? Because he’s A CRIMINAL.

    Reply
  24. Avatar for Derek Pakiz
    Bob on

    If it’s not the law, then why should he and it isn’t law. IF he is required to make public his tax re, then Pelosi, Schummer and ALL other politicians should as well. What sane person wants to pay more in taxes. I certainly know I want to pay as little as possible. The government already y wastes enough, why give them more?

    Reply
  25. Avatar for Derek Pakiz
    Sharon Lauretti on

    No I believe that is private and no one should be forced to publish them to the public. If candidates choose to do so it’s by their choice. Just because a candidate does not want his tax return published he or she should not be criticized for it.

    Reply
  26. Avatar for Derek Pakiz
    Terry Snowden on

    No one continues to comment on your site because you don’t appear to be honest. When someone’s comment is constantly “awaiting moderation” and then you don’t post their comment, people lose interest. That’s exactly what happened here. Stick to lawyering and forget about trying to run a social media platform, you’re not good at it

    Reply

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