Twenty-eight years ago, I chose to become a Chicago firefighter because I believed in helping others in their time of need. This career has given me financial stability, time off to be with my family, and the opportunity to serve my community — something I’ve always valued deeply.

Now, with two kids — one about to start college and the other a junior — I’m even more grateful for the life this job has provided. It’s not just about the paycheck; it’s about the security and opportunities that come with it.

When President Trump signed the new tax bill into law, many of us were hopeful. Republicans promised it would lower taxes for everyday Americans. At first, it seemed like good news: my monthly paycheck increased by about $175. But when I went to see my accountant this year, I found out the real story.

Instead of getting the usual $3,000 refund, I’ll owe over $1,500 in taxes next year — on the same income. I asked my accountant to double-check, but he confirmed the same result. That was a shock. I thought we were getting a break, but what I got was a surprise tax bill.

That’s when I realized: this wasn’t a tax cut — it was a bait-and-switch. The GOP’s plan is hurting working families like mine. The cap on state and local tax deductions (SALT) is hitting middle-class households hard. Many people are now paying more in taxes than before, even though their income hasn’t changed.

The tax plan added nearly $1.5 trillion to the deficit, while giving huge breaks to the wealthy and big corporations. According to the Tax Policy Center, 83% of the benefits go to the top 1% of earners. And instead of raising revenue fairly, they’re making working families pay for it — through higher taxes and fewer refunds.

It’s not just about money, either. These cuts are being used to justify slashing funding for programs that help communities — including the one where I grew up and still serve as a firefighter. When you take away support from these programs, it affects real people, especially those who rely on them most.

Looking ahead, the hidden cost of this tax plan will hit most working and middle-class taxpayers over the next decade. More people will face higher taxes or lose access to essential services. And the GOP is hoping we won’t notice until after the 2018 elections — when it’s too late.

I won’t be fooled. Neither will the millions of hardworking Americans who understand what’s really happening. We don’t pay taxes to give more money to corporations or the super-rich. We pay to support our families, our communities, and our future.

As a firefighter, I’ve always been willing to do my part — whether it’s responding to emergencies or paying my fair share in taxes. But I also believe that those in power, the wealthy, and big companies should do their part too. They shouldn’t be able to take tax breaks while leaving working families to cover the cost.

My family and I have worked hard for everything we have. We deserve fairness — not a system that rewards the few at the expense of the many.

Chicago Firefighter Gary Chavarria lives in Avondale.

Thanks, Dan.

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