As Congress drafts tax reform legislation, a Republican advocacy group has launched a $2.5 million national television ad campaign in support of changes to the tax code.
The ad will air in 24 congressional districts across the country, including two in New York — the 22nd and 24th districts represented by U.S. Reps. Claudia Tenney and John Katko, both Republicans.
The American Action Network's ad features Albert, a former metal worker from Ohio who blames the existing tax code for job losses and the inability of some American companies to compete in the global market.
Corry Bliss, executive director of the American Action Network, urged Congress to act on tax reform legislation.
"We are committed to standing up for Americans who have been left behind by our broken tax code, and sharing real stories to raise awareness on how jobs have fled to countries like China," Bliss said.
Tax reform is a top priority for President Donald Trump and congressional Republicans. Trump, House Speaker Paul Ryan and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell recently announced an agreement on principles that would guide tax reform discussions.
Katko, R-Camillus, and Tenney, R-New Hartford, have indicated that they support tax reform.
In an interview last week, Katko said tax reform can boost economic growth and provide relief to workers.
"I really believe that if we do that, jobs will start coming back to New York state," he said.
Congressional leaders hope to have tax reform finalized by the end of the year.