Trump Promotes No Tax on Tips Policy Amid Las Vegas Economic Struggles

Trump returned to Las Vegas to promote his signature economic promise of no tax on tips.

The White House said the average refund this filing season is over $3,400, 11% higher than last year.

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Wayne, a 66-year-old shoe shiner, said gas prices are high and steaks cost more than double what they used to.

The University of Michigan's consumer sentiment index fell to its lowest level on record.

Tourism visitation in Las Vegas fell 7.5% in 2025, the lowest since 2021.

Small businesses reported foot traffic dropping about 40% over 18 months.

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DoorDash driver Sharon Simmons acknowledged that gas prices hit everyone.

The no tax on tips policy expires after tax year 2028.

Removing just the federal income tax on tips would cost $106 billion over 10 years.

About 4 million people worked in tipped occupations in 2023, roughly 2.5% of all employment.

Many do not benefit because they don't earn enough to pay income tax.

The policy does not address the $2.13 per hour tipped minimum wage in some states.

Nevada Democrats said the story is pretty much telling itself.

Senator Jacky Rosen blamed Trump for rising costs and declining tourism.

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Protesters planned to greet Trump in downtown Las Vegas.

The White House framed the visit as a break from the Iran war.