Let's play roll the dice with Republican Sen. Martha McSally

Vox's Matthew Yglesias explains Sen. Martha McSally's (R-AZ) staggeringly idiotic American Tax Rebate and Incentive Program Act, i.e., the "American TRIP Act." But first, McSally's inspiring if rather peculiar explanation: "[It] will help boost domestic travel and jumpstart the comeback of our hotels, entertainment sectors, local tourism agencies, and the thousands of businesses that make Arizona one of the best places in the world to visit" — and then, at least for now, die a tortuous death from a vicious pandemic.

Gleefully does Sen. McSally continue. She says her legislative proposal will motivate Americans to "safely get out of their homes and discover or rediscover Arizona along with the rest of the amazing destinations our country has to offer" — such as the virus hotspots of Florida, Texas, Alabama, Arkansas, Utah, North and South Carolina. (Come to Orlando! Ride the rides and buy a Mickey Mouse coffin!)

But — wouldn't you just know it? — along comes liberal sourpuss and vacation-pooper Yglesias, who adds that McSally's "proposal is for a [$4,000 or $8,000 a couple] nonrefundable tax credit," which is applicable only to those who earn enough income to owe taxes. Hence "the vast majority of people in the bottom half of the income distribution would get no help at all from McSally’s program."

Furthermore, remember that her bill is a tax credit, not a tax refund. So if you've money "to blow on a vacation," writes Yglesias, "you’ll end up getting your money back when you file your taxes next year. But if you’re living paycheck to paycheck," you're screwed, you're out any financial benefits the bill permits. (On the upside, you won't be tempted to visit your final resting place years earlier than heavenly scheduled.)

In other words, this is your classic, Republican, plutocratic tax legislation which is almost incomprehensibly stupid. Those who have can have more, while those without and in most need of help are just fucked.

Comments

[Jason]

There’s a nice look for you. While the poor are huddled in their Section 8 apartments, unemployed, uninsured, and teetering on the edge of eviction, the rich are gallivanting around from resort to resort, all courtesy of Uncle Sam. Good thinking, Sally!

[Anne J]

It's even worse than that. A day of vacation for the upper classes is a day of menial labor and mental abuse for the lower classes. At poverty wages. Senator Participation Trophy really isn't bolstering her case for finally being elected to the job that was handed to her AFTER she lost her election.

[Jason]

Spot on, Anne.