
Donald Trump’s latest proposal redirects IRS hires to tackle pressing border security issues, suggesting sweeping changes for federal employment policies.
At a Glance
- Trump proposes reallocating nearly 90,000 IRS hires to the US-Mexico border.
- A hiring freeze affects federal civilian employees, with specific exceptions.
- Trump suggests creating an External Revenue Service for trade revenue.
- Potential tax reform includes tariffs on Mexico and Canada.
IRS Reallocation and Border Security
During a speech in Nevada, President Donald Trump proposed a bold plan to direct nearly 90,000 IRS employees to the US-Mexico border. This idea targets IRS agents, some of whom have authorization to carry firearms, for potential reassignment to border security roles. Trump criticized the current use of federal resources, arguing this reallocation would bolster national security.
In response to IRS budget cuts and criticism from Republican lawmakers, Trump’s suggestion aligns with his broader ‘Save America’ agenda. This initiative focuses on reducing the federal government’s size, prioritizing areas deemed essential. Trump emphasized that the border duties these IRS agents would undertake are crucial for national integrity.
Trump says he may send nearly 90,000 newly hired IRS agents to border after issuing indefinite hiring freeze | Anna Young, New York Post
President Trump said Saturday he is considering sending nearly 90,000 newly hired Internal Revenue Service agents to guard the southern… pic.twitter.com/pyRLUSvamk
— Owen Gregorian (@OwenGregorian) January 26, 2025
Federal Hiring Freeze and Government Restructuring
The hiring freeze, stipulated from January 20, 2025, affects federal civilian employees across the executive branch. With exemptions including military personnel and essential services like Social Security and national security, it aims to consolidate government operations. Specific exemptions are set by the Director of the Office of Personnel Management, and the freeze will persist at the IRS until further notice.
Trade Reform and Economic Policy
The president announced plans for a radical trade system overhaul, focusing on protecting American workers. Proposals include imposing tariffs on Mexico and Canada if immigration policies aren’t respected, with a 25% tax starting in February. Such measures reflect Trump’s intent to leverage trade policies for national security and economic protection.
“I will immediately begin the overhaul of our trade system to protect American workers and families.” – Donald Trump
Suspending funding through the Inflation Reduction Act and related initiatives, Trump’s vision is a stark deviation from current policies. Shifting to tariffs for federal revenue, via a newly established revenue body, his approach may instigate significant debate on tax reforms and federal priorities amidst ongoing economic challenges.