In a recent turn of events, it appears that Professor Cornel West’s bid for the presidency on a third-party ticket has faced scrutiny from Democrats and the media. Unsurprisingly, their aim has been to discredit West and force him out of the race. This becomes evident with the emergence of reports claiming that West owes the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) over $500,000 in unpaid taxes.
Interestingly, it seems that there is a double standard at play, as Hunter Biden, the son of President Joe Biden, has faced no such consequences for his own tax-related issues. While the media largely ignored Hunter Biden’s tax woes, they are now quick to highlight and sensationalize the matter concerning West.
In an article from the New Republic, via Yahoo News, it is revealed that West, despite advocating for higher taxes on the wealthy throughout his career, has neglected to pay his own taxes. The report highlights West’s criticism of the concentration of wealth in American society, emphasizing the need for substantially higher taxes on the wealthiest individuals.
However, it appears that West has not practiced what he preaches. An investigation by The Daily Beast has uncovered that he owes a staggering $543,778.78 in unpaid taxes. This includes outstanding tax liabilities from various years, such as 2005, 2014, 2015, 2016, and 2017. The IRS has filed liens against West, signaling federal claims against his property for the unpaid debts.
The revelation of West’s tax troubles undoubtedly casts a shadow over his presidential aspirations. It fuels criticism and challenges his credibility as a representative of the working class and an advocate for economic equality. Democrats, in particular, are deeply concerned about his presence in the race, as it could potentially impact the outcome in important swing states.
An Emerson College poll focusing on Michigan voters has further intensified these concerns. The poll shows President Joe Biden with a meager 43% job approval rating in the state, coupled with a 50% disapproval rating. In contrast, Governor Gretchen Whitmer enjoys a 49% approval and 43% disapproval rating, positioning her favorably in the key swing state.
However, what is truly alarming for Democrats is the hypothetical scenario presented in the poll. If Cornel West were to enter the race as a third-party candidate, it reveals that former President Donald Trump would defeat Biden by securing 43% of the vote compared to Biden’s 41%. West himself garnered 4% of the vote, which significantly impacted Biden’s current margin. Moreover, 4% of respondents indicated support for another candidate, while 7% remained undecided with West on the ballot.
For Democrats, losing crucial states like Michigan, Wisconsin, and Pennsylvania to Trump in the next presidential election is a scenario they fear. With West’s presence on the ballot, this possibility becomes even more precarious.
Given the potential impact of West’s candidacy, it is highly likely that more negative information will surface about him in the upcoming weeks. The Democrats and the media will undoubtedly seize upon any opportunity to undermine his campaign and reduce his chances of becoming a formidable contender in the 2024 presidential election.
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