Jeff Merkley on Tax Reform Democratic Senate Challenger; member of State House

Supports raising taxes on earnings over $250,000 per year

Merkley addressed Smith directly: “The fact is, Gordon, you’ve voted for taxes 67 times.” Merkley said he would support Obama’s proposed plan to raise taxes on people making more than $250,000 per year.

Taxes came up again when both candidates were asked whether it was smart to cut taxes during a time when the national debt is growing. Merkley hung the blame on Smith’s shoulders. “Do you understand that our children are going to have to pay back the debt you are running up?” he asked.

“So what would you have me do?” Smith asked. Much of the money he’s asked for, Smith said, has been because state senators, representatives and others back home have asked him for it.

Repeal $18 billion in tax breaks given to big oil companies

No state sales tax

A: No. I support equalization between individual and corporate kicker.