Election 101: Where the GOP candidates stand on taxes, jobs, and other economic issues

With more than 13 million Americans out of work and wage increases so modest they’re failing to keep up with inflation, voters have put the economy and jobs at the top of their checklist of presidential issues.

5. Rick Perry

Charlie Neibergall/AP
Republican presidential candidate Rick Perry speaks to workers and local residents after touring the TPI Iowa wind blade manufacturing facility, Thursday, in Newton, Iowa.

Taxes

Give choice of current income tax law or flat 20 percent rate (with $12,500 exemption and some deductions that phase out above $500,000 in income). Exempt qualified dividends and long-term capital gains.  Repeal estate tax and levies on Social Security benefits. Cut business rate to 20 percent.

Deficits and budget

Calls plan “Cut, Balance and Grow.” Cut spending, including elimination of Commerce, Education, and Energy departments, with possible cuts in foreign aid and UN funding. Supports balanced budget amendment.

Jobs and growth

Says “cut” and “balance” (see above) will lead to growth. Reduce regulation and promote a domestic energy boom.

Social Security and safety net

Called current system a “Ponzi scheme.” Reforms would raise eligibility age, give people option to put money in private accounts instead. State workers could put money in state retirement funds instea

5 of 7
You've read 3 of 3 free articles. Subscribe to continue.
CSM logo

Why is Christian Science in our name?

Our name is about honesty. The Monitor is owned by The Christian Science Church, and we’ve always been transparent about that.

The Church publishes the Monitor because it sees good journalism as vital to progress in the world. Since 1908, we’ve aimed “to injure no man, but to bless all mankind,” as our founder, Mary Baker Eddy, put it.

Here, you’ll find award-winning journalism not driven by commercial influences – a news organization that takes seriously its mission to uplift the world by seeking solutions and finding reasons for credible hope.

Explore values journalism About us