While some of our federal representatives are busy engaging in political theater — protesting global conflicts they have no control over or waging ideological battles that do nothing to help working families — there's a real issue sitting squarely within their power to address.
And yet, it's barely a blip on their radar.
The U.S. Congress is considering eliminating the federal tax exemption for municipal bonds, the single most important financing tool for cities and towns across America. If they do, the cost of building and maintaining infrastructure — roads, bridges, schools, water systems, and even broadband networks — will skyrocket.
This isn't speculation.
This isn't a partisan issue. It's not an issue of ideology, activism, or social justice. It's an issue of governance, of making sure municipalities have the resources to build and maintain the infrastructure their communities depend on.
But where is the outrage? Where are the rallies, the protests, the impassioned speeches, or the TikTok clips from our members of Congress? Instead of focusing on an issue that's within their direct purview — one where they can actually make a difference — many of them are caught up in performative politics, taking stands on international conflicts and symbolic resolutions that have no tangible impact on their constituents.
Meanwhile, cities and towns across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts are watching closely because we know what's at stake. We understand that municipal bonds are the reason local governments can afford to build fire stations, repave roads, improve public transit, and upgrade water treatment facilities without crushing taxpayers.
The City of Quincy has formally called on our Massachusetts Congressional Delegation to fight for the preservation of the federal tax exemption on municipal bonds. And we're not alone. Across the country, municipalities are urging Congress to act — because this issue matters to every community, large and small.
If Congress is looking for a way to actually help the people they were elected to serve, here's their chance. Instead of engaging in grandstanding and political distractions, they should focus on the real issues that impact everyday Americans.
Protecting tax-exempt municipal bonds isn't flashy. It won't generate viral moments on social media. But it will keep borrowing costs low, protect taxpayers from unnecessary rate hikes, and ensure communities have the infrastructure they need to thrive.
That's what governance is supposed to be about. The question is — will Congress rise to the occasion, or will they continue chasing headlines while ignoring the real work?
Ian Cain is the president of the City Council in Quincy, Mass.
