Dear Friend,

With the dust barely settled from the 2024 elections, the winds of change are sweeping through Washington once again. President Trump is headed back to the Oval Office, the Senate will be in Republican hands, and an even slimmer House majority promises drama on Capitol Hill. For some, it’s a time of hope; for others, trepidation. But here at Taxpayers for Common Sense, we have one guiding principle: taxpayer dollars must be spent wisely and transparently—no matter who’s in charge.

For 30 years, we’ve been the watchdogs of waste. We’ve seen administrations come and go, Congresses flip and flop. But one thing never changes: the need for common sense in federal spending. That’s where you come in.

This Giving Tuesday, we’re asking you to stand with us as we face potential budgetary sleight-of-hand, corporate giveaways, and fiscal follies. With your support, we’ll continue to shine a light on wasteful spending and hold Washington accountable. Help us hold government to account by donating today!

Here’s where your support will have an impact:

• Lame Duck Appropriations Drama: With a divided Congress and a rapidly approaching funding deadline, the lame duck session is shaping up to be a high-stakes showdown over appropriations. Lawmakers face the challenge of passing a comprehensive spending package to avoid a government shutdown—no small feat given the razor-thin House majority and competing priorities. This is often the season for last-minute “pork” and backroom deals. We’ll be working to ensure that taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly, without hidden earmarks or reckless budgetary maneuvers.

• Disaster Relief Supplemental Request: The Biden administration has just submitted a $100 billion request to Congress to address the aftermath of devastating natural disasters in 2023 and 2024, including Hurricanes Helene and Milton. This funding is essential for FEMA, which is already running low on resources, as well as for small businesses and communities still struggling to recover. While disaster relief typically garners bipartisan support, there’s concern that partisan politics and parochial interests could delay or misdirect this critical funding. We’ll be working to ensure that any relief is targeted, transparent, and free from wasteful add-ons.

• The Farm Bill: The Farm Bill, which was temporarily extended last year, is set to expire again at the end of 2024. If Congress doesn’t act during the lame duck session, we could see another short-term extension—kicking the can down the road yet again. This bill governs everything from crop insurance to nutrition assistance to conservation programs, and it’s crucial that it be updated to reflect modern needs while ensuring a fair return for taxpayers. We’ll continue pushing for reforms that eliminate unnecessary subsidies and promote sustainable agricultural practices.

Make your voice heard! Donate today!

• Defense Spending Under Scrutiny: As Congress navigates the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) and appropriations, defense spending remains a hot topic. With calls to bolster military readiness and counter global threats, there’s a risk of unchecked increases in the Pentagon’s budget, including funding for outdated systems and bloated contracts. While national security is critical, paying for it requires prioritizing efficiency and eliminating waste. We’ll be advocating for reforms to improve oversight, reduce cost overruns, and ensure taxpayer investments are driven by sound strategy rather than corporate interests.

• Tax Reform on the Horizon: Looking ahead to 2025, the expiration of key provisions from the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) looms large. These provisions include lower personal income tax rates and simplified filing processes—policies that have significantly impacted federal revenue. We’ll be advocating for a simpler, fairer tax code that promotes fiscal responsibility.

At Taxpayers for Common Sense, we’re in the trenches, doing what we’ve always done: fighting to keep fiscal responsibility front and center. We’re calling out the boondoggles, spotlighting the waste, and urging lawmakers to put country above party, prudence above politics.

But vigilance isn’t free. As the stakes rise, so too does the importance of citizen engagement. That’s where you come in. Your support—your belief in transparency, accountability, and good old-fashioned common sense—is what powers this work. Please Donate Now.

This Giving Tuesday, join us in the fight. With your help, we can keep shining a light on Washington’s darker corners and ensure taxpayers get the fair deal they deserve.

Thanks for standing with us.

Sincerely,

Stephen Ellis
President

P.S. Next year marks our 30th anniversary of fighting for fiscal responsibility and taxpayer accountability. Help us kick off this milestone by standing with us today—your support ensures we’ll keep making an impact for the next 30 years and beyond! Donate today!