President Trump proposes tax code reform in visit to Springfield

President Donald Trump made his first return to Missouri since winning the state in the 2016 election. It comes after the president’s visit to the storm-ravaged Houston area.

The president referenced the damage left from Harvey but also talked tax reform.

Trump started his speech in Springfield by saying America is praying for everyone affected by Hurricane Harvey and that they have the full support and resources of the federal government.

He then introduced his special guests including multiple cabinet members, Gov. Eric Greitens and most of Missouri’s congressional delegation.

The president then moved onto reforming the nation’s tax code. He said the current code is destructive, costs taxpayers billions of dollars and countless hours of professional preparation.

He said he’s asking Congress to make it easier and more efficient.

“This is our once in a generation opportunity to deliver real tax reform for everyday Americans and I am fully committed to working with Congress to get this job done. I don’t want to be disappointed by Congress, do you understand me?” said the president to cheers.

Rep. Blaine Luetkemeyer (R-Mo.) says: “I’m excited about it. I think letting people keep more of their money is a great, great principle to let our economy go to work (and) do great things.” Luetkemeyer said Congress has been considering tax reform for some time.

Missouri Secretary of State Jay Ashcroft said tax reform will be “good for business” in Missouri.

State Treasurer Eric Schmitt seems to realize tax reform is an uphill battle but said, “We really haven’t had a real substantive conversation about tax reform in 30 years. There’s a real opportunity now to do it. So the time is now to do this. And I think the Americans deserve it.”

Protestors and demonstrator were near the Loren Cook Company, where the private event was held, but did not let that silence their voices. One demonstrator from Republic, Missouri, said she objects to President Trump’s politics and overall style. She said, “We are in the Bible Belt here. And for as many as support him in the Bible Belt and then the (expletive)…stuff that comes out of his mouth…it’s very shocking.”

To read President Trump’s full remarks as posted by the White House, click here.