It’s pretty much impossible to create and sustain a more compassionate, powerful government, one that’s up to the huge challenges of our time, without raising taxes. The public sector at every level—federal, state, and local—needs more revenue. It’s been baffling that tax policy doesn’t get more attention from those leaders and institutions working to create a fairer, more equitable America.

It’s only been in recent years that tax policy has generated real interest in progressive circles, thanks to bold proposals for a wealth tax. Now, with Biden in office and Democrats in control of Congress, we’re likely to be talking a lot more about this topic. Biden has pledged to raise taxes by more than $3 trillion. One organization that has been waiting for this moment is the Institute for Taxation and Economic Policy, which is based in Washington, D.C. and led by Amy Hanauer. Host David Callahan spoke with Hanauer on the many facets of tax policy. 

Inside Change is produced by David Callahan and Kayan Tara.