Mnuchin Refuses to Release Trump’s Tax Returns to Congress – Do You Support His Move?

What’s the story?

• Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin has denied House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Richard Neal's (D-MA) request for six years of President Donald Trump's personal tax returns.
• The request “lacks a legitimate legislative purpose,” Mnuchin wrote in his one-page letter, written in consultation with lawyers from the Department of Justice.

What else does the letter say?

• “As you have recognized, the Committee’s request is unprecedented, and it presents serious constitutional questions, the resolution of which may have lasting consequences for all taxpayers,” the letter read.
• “The Department of Justice has informed us that it intends to memorialize its advice in a published legal opinion as soon as practicable. Out of respect for the deadlines previously set by the Committee, and consistent with our commitment to a prompt response, I am informing you now that the Department may not lawfully fulfill the Committee’s request.”

What’s the House’s response?

• Rep. Neal issued a terse statement on Monday afternoon in response to Mnuchin’s letter:

“I will consult with counsel and determine the appropriate response.”

• The Massachusetts Democrat had originally demanded access to Trump's tax returns in April, citing a law that says the IRS "shall furnish" the returns of any taxpayer to a handful of top lawmakers, including the chair of the Ways and Means Committee—which, in this case, is Neal.

What do you think?

Do you support House Democrats requesting Trump’s tax returns? Or do you support Mnuchin’s refusal to hand them over? Take action and tell your reps, then share your thoughts below.

—Josh Herman

(Photo Credit: @RealDonaldTrump via Twitter)