Ron DeSantis (R) FL Would Do Away with Four Federal Agencies if Elected
2023-07-12
In an unexpected move, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, currently Trump’s top competitor for the GOP candidacy, has announced his ambitious plan to dissolve four federal agencies—Department of Education, Department of Commerce, Department of Energy, and Internal Revenue Service—if he secures the presidency. The radical proposal has stirred discussions and debates across the political spectrum.
What does the Department of Education do at the federal level?
The U.S. Department of Education is tasked with establishing policy for, administering, and coordinating most federal assistance to education. Its roles range from gathering data on America’s schools and disseminating research to identifying major issues in education and focusing national attention on them.
DeSantis argues that education should be a local and state issue, and the federal government shouldn't have so much control. He believes that eliminating this federal department would give states and local communities more autonomy to address their specific educational needs.
DeSantis Suggests He Would Axe Departments Of Education, Commerce If Elected President
Who will handle international trade if not the Commerce Department?
The Department of Commerce plays a vital role in promoting American business and international trade. Yet, DeSantis proposes its dissolution, arguing that its responsibilities could be better handled by other federal and state agencies.
His plan is to shift the international trade duties to the State Department, which already has significant expertise in international relations. He believes this consolidation will streamline operations and make the government more efficient.
What does the Department of Energy do?
The Department of Energy maintains the safety, security, and effectiveness of the U.S. nuclear weapons stockpile. It also promotes energy conservation, renewable energy, and oversees the country's energy policy.
DeSantis proposes handing over the responsibility of the nuclear stockpile to the Department of Defense, which he feels is more aligned with national security matters. The energy policy and conservation duties would be transferred to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), thereby reducing redundancy and improving governmental efficiency.
DeSantis vows to eliminate IRS, education, commerce, and energy departments if elected
What's the alternative to the Internal Revenue Service?
Arguably the most controversial part of DeSantis' proposal is the dissolution of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The IRS is responsible for collecting taxes and administering the Internal Revenue Code, the main body of federal statutory tax law.
DeSantis plans to replace the current tax system with a flat tax, where all Americans would pay the same percentage of their income, thus simplifying the tax code. Citizens and businesses would be expected to pay quarterly estimated taxes, and any suspected fraud would be investigated by the FBI. The aim is to simplify the process, minimize the opportunity for fraud, and reduce the cost of tax administration.
Final thoughts?
Governor DeSantis' proposals are indeed radical and ambitious, reflecting a strong desire to reduce federal government size and influence. These plans could dramatically reshape the structure of American government and how it operates. As the political debates around these proposals continue, their implications for the nation remain to be seen.
However, one consideration is the nearly $600 billion in annual savings. Is all the uncertainty worth it?
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About the author
Stephen Dalton is a native of Old Town, ME, and a retired US Army First Sergeant with a degree in journalism from the University of Maryland. He is a Certified US English Chicago Manual of Style Editor. Top Writer in Travel, Food, Fiction, Transportation, VR, NFL, Design, Creativity, Short Story, and a NewsBreak Community Voice Pro.
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