On September 18, 2024, members of the For the Many coalition joined leaders from across the U.S. in Washington, DC, to demand bold tax reforms when the 2017 tax cuts expire next year. Advocates called on Congress to ensure that the wealthy and large corporations contribute fairly to fund critical public services that working families rely on.
For the Many, which spearheaded the Corporate Business Tax surcharge victory in New Jersey, now seeks to amplify its tax justice agenda at the federal level, standing in solidarity with community advocates from over 15 states. As part of this growing movement, the coalition urged Congress to commit to raising corporate tax rates, ending tax cuts for high-income households, and investing in key public services like child care, education, and infrastructure.
By aligning federal tax policy with the needs of working families, the coalition seeks to ensure that both state and national reforms prioritize equity and long-term economic health. With the recent loss of two key members at the federal level, several NJ delegates moving into critical federal roles, and a closely watched gubernatorial race in 2025, now is seen as a pivotal moment for action. Recent polling shows 78% of NJ voters support taxing corporations.
“We’re here in Washington to send a clear message: New Jersey’s success in restoring the Corporate Business Tax shows that fair tax policy can work at both state and federal levels. As we approach the expiration of the 2017 tax cuts, it’s time for Congress to ensure the wealthiest Americans and corporations contribute fairly,” said Eric Benson, For the Many Campaign Director. “Our families deserve real investments in education, transit, and child care — not policies that favor the ultra-wealthy. We’re proud to stand with advocates across the country to make that happen.”
The New Jersey coalition is particularly focused on corporate accountability in funding vital public services. With the recently restored Corporate Business Tax surcharge in New Jersey already set to boost transit investments, advocates emphasized pairing state-level wins with federal tax reforms that benefit communities.
“The 2017 tax cuts benefited the wealthy and giant corporations while leaving working-class people behind. Congress has the chance to unrig our economy and restore economic fairness by reinvesting in people, not profits,” said Antoinette Miles, NJ State Director of Working Families Party. “In New Jersey, we’ve shown that moving towards a fair tax code that prioritizes working families over corporate profits is possible. We can create a people-first economy where everyone has what they need to get ahead.”
Members of Make The Road New Jersey are currently in Washington DC emphasizing restoring Federal corporate business taxes. The 2017 tax cut under the previous administration primarily benefited wealthy corporations.
“We strongly urge elected officials to prioritize our communities' well-being by reinstating Federal corporate taxes and directing investments towards societal betterment," said Camila Guayasamin Llugcha from Make The Road NJ. "As an individual who heavily relies on public services for education and employment," she added.
“Small business owners are tired of being pushed aside while big corporations rake in tax breaks," said Wetoga Felli from Small Business Alliance Research Analyst. "Congress must fix this broken system."
“Taxing the wealthy isn’t about penalizing success; it’s about ensuring prosperity doesn’t come at others' expense," said Ben Dziobek from Climate Revolution Action Network Executive Director.
“A fairer tax system means a brighter future for our communities," said Tomas Varela Jr., Executive Director of New Jersey Black Empowerment Coalition.
For The Many is a statewide coalition of more than 40 organizations working to expand funding for essential services and improve budget practices to meet current and future needs.
Fair Share America supports movements nationally aiming for equitable taxation so all can thrive through lasting civic engagement.
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