How Trump’s Tax Law Is Actually Hitting U.S. Businesses
In the summer of 2017, President Donald Trump celebrated a major legislative achievement: the passage of his much-touted tax bill, a move he hailed as a win for American businesses. The law introduced a series of tax cuts, extended existing reductions set to expire, and created new deductions aimed at various sectors. However, as the Wall Street Journal’s recent video demonstrates, not all businesses are sharing in this economic boon.
The video features WSJ tax reporter Richard Rubin, who takes viewers on a journey along the Gulf Coast to explore the tangible impacts of Trump’s tax megabill on two distinct businesses. Each case showcases the law’s uneven effects, illuminating the complexities underlying tax policy.
At the outset, viewers encounter a beverage distributor that represents a success story. This business has benefited significantly from the tax cuts and new deductions embedded in the law. By lowering their overall tax burden, the distributor can reinvest in operations, hire additional staff, and pass on some savings to consumers. This reflects the optimistic narrative frequently publicized by proponents of the tax legislation: that such policies spur growth, incentivizing companies to invest in their workforce and expand their reach.
In stark contrast, the next business Rubin visits—a solar energy firm—paints a different picture. This company has struggled to leverage the tax changes to its advantage, facing challenges that highlight gaps in the law’s provisions. As renewable energy companies often have unique operational costs and financial structures, the widespread benefits of tax cuts are not as easily accessible. The contrast between these two businesses illustrates how one-size-fits-all tax legislation can produce winners and losers within the same economic landscape.
The video also raises crucial questions about the future implications of the tax law, especially as we approach 2026 when several provisions are set to expire. As small businesses assess their long-term strategies, there is lingering uncertainty about the sustainability of the benefits afforded by these tax cuts. Will the challenges faced by companies like the solar firm signal a need for more tailored fiscal policies?
As Trump’s presidency continues to reshape American business and economic frameworks, it becomes increasingly important to evaluate the actual outcomes of legislative changes. The tax bill may have promised a sweeping enhancement of the business landscape, but as Rubin’s reporting makes clear, the reality is far more nuanced—leaving many firms navigating an unpredictable terrain.
In a world where tax policy can influence everything from employment rates to industry growth, understanding who truly benefits is essential for all stakeholders involved. As viewers tune into the Wall Street Journal’s analysis, they’re urged to consider not just the headlines but the real-life implications these laws hold for small businesses across America.
Watch the video by The Wall Street Journal
Video “How Trump’s Tax Law Is Actually Hitting U.S. Businesses | WSJ” was uploaded on 12/16/2025 to Youtube Channel The Wall Street Journal