Faulconer proposes eliminating state income tax for most residents

Kevin Faulconer, center, unveiled his tax proposal at a press conference in Downey on Wednesday. (Photo by Eric Pierce

DOWNEY – Former San Diego mayor Kevin Faulconer visited Downey on Tuesday where he announced plans for what he called “the largest middle-class tax cut in California history.”

Faulconer is one of three prominent Republicans campaigning to replace Gov. Gavin Newsom if he is recalled this November.

“California doesn’t have an income problem, we have a spending problem,” Faulconer said, speaking in front of the “Downey-Doodleicious” mural on Downey Avenue.

Under Faulconer’s tax proposal, California residents would pay zero state income tax if they earn less than $50,000 annually ($100,000 for families). All others would see a reduction in their state income taxes except for those earning $1 million or more.

(Photo by Eric Pierce)

“This is a broad tax cut for young people just starting out, parents who are paying for diapers or college, and folks working long days to put food on the table,” Faulconer said.

Faulconer also said he would eliminate taxes on veterans’ retirement income.

In total, nearly 11 million California residents would receive a tax reduction under Faulconer’s plan, he said.

Faulconer was greeted in Downey by former mayors Mario Guerra and Rick Rodriguez, who also spoke at the press conference.

“As California begins to recover from our state-imposed shutdown, we continue to see increasing gas prices, higher energy costs, and with that comes shrinking paychecks,” Guerra said.

“With the State of California’s $75 billion surplus over the past three years, that money should remain in the hands of taxpayers. Our middle class is getting crushed and they deserve a break. I applaud Mayor Faulconer for putting forward a commonsense plan that will provide much-needed relief for families across our communities.”