Former President Trump threw another curveball into the presidential race this week by suggesting that Social Security benefits should not be taxed. Just as with the Trump idea earlier this summer to stop taxing tips, Democrats are publicly objecting and privately wondering: why didn't we think of this ourselves?
Many Democrats have in the past supported this policy through a plan called "You Earned It, You Keep It." But now they howl that it will put Social Security in danger and benefit the rich. That's insulting to the millions of middle-class seniors who work.
Currently, Social Security recipients with incomes below $25,000 individually or $32,000 for couples are exempt entirely from the tax. Those with higher incomes can get taxed on up to 85% of their benefits received. This is a big disincentive to work. It's also unfair to seniors who do continue to work after age 65.