Repealing the 16th and 17th amendments that came along with the Federal Reserve Act of 1913.
16th Amendment Repeal Argument:
Restoring Economic Liberty: The 16th Amendment has enabled a complex and burdensome federal tax system. Repealing it would reduce the federal government’s power to tax individual income, which proponents argue would lead to greater economic freedom and personal financial independence. This could incentivize productivity, savings, and investment, allowing states to handle taxation more locally and efficiently.
Reducing Federal Overreach: Without the income tax, the federal government would have fewer resources to expand its scope and control over individual states and industries. Proponents believe that repealing the 16th Amendment would limit federal overreach and lead to smaller, more accountable government, placing more power back into the hands of states and local governments.
17th Amendment Repeal Argument:
Restoring State Sovereignty: Prior to the 17th Amendment, U.S. Senators were appointed by state legislatures, which gave states direct representation in the federal government. Repealing this amendment would strengthen the role of states in federal decision-making and help restore the balance of power between state and federal authorities. It would make senators more accountable to the states’ interests rather than to national political trends or large donors.
Reducing Populist Influence and Corruption: The direct election of senators has contributed to an increase in populism, where senators may prioritize national political party agendas or popular opinion over the long-term needs of their state. Repealing the 17th Amendment could return the selection of senators to a more deliberative process by state legislatures, which proponents argue would lead to more thoughtful and less politically-driven decision-making.
In summary, advocates for repealing the 16th and 17th Amendments often argue that it would result in a smaller, more decentralized federal government, restore the original balance of power between states and the federal government, and reduce the influence of special interests in national elections.