LAS VEGAS— Speaking to an energized crowd in Las Vegas, former President Donald Trump reiterated his firm stance against the Biden administration’s expansion of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), vowing to terminate 88,000 agents hired under the Inflation Reduction Act if re-elected. Trump also floated the idea of relocating those agents to assist with securing the southern border, an issue he framed as one of national security and sovereignty.
“We’re going to get rid of all those IRS agents—or, maybe, we’ll move them to the border,” Trump told an enthusiastic audience, drawing raucous applause and cheers. “We need more people at the border, not going after hardworking Americans.”
A Conservative Plan to Tackle Government Overreach
The Biden administration’s $80 billion allocation to the IRS has faced significant criticism from Republicans, who argue that the influx of new agents will disproportionately target middle-class Americans and small businesses. The administration claims the initiative aims to enhance enforcement of tax laws among high-income earners and corporations.
Trump’s remarks in Las Vegas reflect his broader campaign narrative of reducing government overreach while strengthening border security—a hallmark of his first term. “These agents should be stopping the flood of illegal immigration instead of harassing patriotic citizens,” Trump said, emphasizing his belief that the funds allocated for IRS expansion would be better spent addressing the crisis at the border.
According to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection, migrant encounters at the southern border remain at historic highs, with over 2.2 million encounters recorded in the last fiscal year. Trump’s proposal to repurpose the IRS workforce to aid in border security underscores his priority of tackling illegal immigration through unconventional means.
Biden’s Tax Policy Under Fire
The hiring of 88,000 additional IRS agents is part of the Biden administration’s push to close the so-called “tax gap” by cracking down on tax evasion among high earners and corporations. However, critics argue that increased audits and enforcement will inevitably target average Americans, particularly small business owners.
“The idea that these agents will focus only on the wealthy is a lie,” Trump said, reflecting a sentiment widely shared by conservatives. The Congressional Budget Office estimated that the enhanced IRS funding could generate an additional $200 billion in revenue over ten years. Still, many Republicans see this as another example of government intrusion into the lives of everyday citizens.
The former president contrasted Biden’s approach with his own record, highlighting tax cuts implemented during his administration, which he credited with spurring economic growth and benefiting the middle class. Trump has consistently positioned himself as an advocate for fiscal conservatism, promising to roll back what he considers burdensome policies enacted by his successor.
Securing the Border: A Top Priority
In his speech, Trump made clear that addressing border security would be one of his administration’s immediate priorities if re-elected. Suggesting that the 88,000 IRS agents could be reassigned to border enforcement, he highlighted the strain on existing resources due to record-high illegal crossings.
Border security has long been a cornerstone of Trump’s platform. During his presidency, his administration constructed over 450 miles of border wall, implemented the “Remain in Mexico” policy, and expanded Title 42 expulsions. His remarks in Las Vegas signal a continuation of that commitment, with an added focus on utilizing federal resources more strategically.
“We need every available resource to stop the chaos at the border,” Trump said. “Instead of going after your bank accounts, these agents could be working to protect our country from the drug cartels and human traffickers.”
The crisis at the southern border continues to have far-reaching implications, from increased drug trafficking—particularly fentanyl—to human smuggling operations, which Trump emphasized are devastating American communities.
Grassroots Support for Trump’s Vision
The crowd’s reaction in Las Vegas reflected strong grassroots support for Trump’s proposals, with many attendees voicing concerns about the trajectory of the nation under Biden’s leadership.
“This is why we need Trump back in office,” said one supporter. “He’s not afraid to call out the nonsense in Washington and focus on what really matters—our borders and our freedom.”
Critics of Biden’s border policies argue that the administration’s lack of enforcement has emboldened criminal organizations and exacerbated the humanitarian crisis. Trump’s plan to repurpose IRS agents aligns with his broader narrative of putting “America First” by prioritizing the safety and prosperity of American citizens.
A Clear Distinction in 2024
Trump’s remarks draw a sharp contrast with President Biden’s approach to governance, highlighting fundamental differences in their priorities and policy prescriptions. While Biden champions expanded federal agencies and increased tax enforcement, Trump focuses on limiting government power and addressing border challenges through innovative solutions.
As the 2024 presidential campaign gains momentum, Trump’s commitment to scaling back the IRS and redirecting resources toward border security is likely to resonate with conservative voters. For many, his proposals represent a return to common-sense governance that puts the needs of the American people above bureaucratic expansion.
In the coming months, Trump is expected to double down on his border security platform and economic vision, which his supporters believe will restore order and prosperity to the nation. His Las Vegas speech served as a reminder of the stark choices facing voters in 2024—choices that could shape the future of the country for generations to come.
