opinion

Roberts: Jeff Flake sells out middle class for DACA

We now know Sen. Jeff Flake’s price for selling out America’s middle class on tax reform.

Flake, one of America’s last hopes to hold out for a fairer deal, announced on Friday that he’s a yes vote. Yes to a bill that the Congressional Budget Office says will add a trillion dollars to the debt.

Yes to a bill that will lead to half of all Americans (read: not the richer half) paying more in federal income taxes in the long run.

A yes. Really.

“I will support #TaxReform bill after securing language to eliminate an $85 billion budget gimmick as well as commitment from the administration & #Senate leadership to advance growth-oriented legislative solution to enact fair & permanent protections for #DACA recipients,” Flake tweeted on Friday.

MONTINI: Sens. McCain and Flake just sold you out on tax reform

ROBB: John McCain did not sell out on tax reform

What the heck is a “growth-oriented legislative solution” to protecting young immigrants who are part of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals?

As importantly, what the heck does that have to do with ultimately raising taxes on people who make less than $75,000 a year while giving long-term breaks to corporations and millionaires?

President Trump ended DACA and Congress has until March to come up with a legislative solution. It's commendable that Flake is searching for one. It's important.

But selling out America’s middle class to get it done?

Way to represent, senator. For shame.

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Jeff Flake ... for president?