FPÖ Criticizes Proposed Tax Increases, Calls for Budget Restructuring
Dr. Manfred Haimbuchner, the FPÖ state chairman for Upper Austria and deputy state governor, has criticized the ÖVP and SPÖ for their stance on tax increases and budget restructuring. He argues that while Chancellor Karl Nehammer claims to oppose wealth taxes, the proposed increase in property taxes is essentially a form of wealth tax in disguise.
Property Tax Hike: A Wrong Signal in Difficult Times
“Increasing property taxes would send the completely wrong signal in these challenging economic times,” Haimbuchner contends, adding that such an increase would ultimately lead to rent hikes for tenants. He emphasizes that the best way to address the budget deficit is not through new taxes but rather by eliminating what he considers “senseless climate subsidies“, streamlining the asylum and migration system, and curbing what he calls “state wastefulness”.
Reform Stalemate: NoSign of Real Change
Haimbuchner expresses disbelief at the prospect of the very parties responsible for the budget deficit – the ÖVP and SPÖ – suddenly advocating for budget restructuring. He labels these parties “structurally conservative and reform-incapable,” asserting that their inaction leaves no room for genuine change. In his view, the presence of the NEOS in the federal government will have little impact on this status quo.
FPÖ: Championing High Performers and Young People
Haimbuchner contrasts the FPÖ’s approach with that of the ÖVP, claiming that his party resonates more with high performers and young people who are disillusioned with the former business party. He believes that the FPÖ is committed to rewarding performance and ensuring a brighter future for young generations.
“These social groups have understood that they can no longer expect anything from the former business party ÖVP. We, on the other hand, as the FPÖ, are committed to ensuring that performance is worth it again and that young people have a future,” Haimbuchner concludes, emphasizing the FPÖ’s commitment to addressing the concerns of these key demographics.
According to Dr. Haimbuchner, what alternative solutions could the Austrian government explore to address budgetary challenges without increasing taxes?
## FPÖ: Property Tax Hike is a “Stealth Wealth Tax”
**Interviewer:** Joining us today is Dr. Manfred Haimbuchner, the FPÖ state chairman for Upper Austria and deputy state governor. Dr. Haimbuchner, thanks for joining us.
**Dr. Haimbuchner:** My pleasure to be here.
**Interviewer:** You’ve been very vocal about the proposed tax increases by the ÖVP and SPÖ, particularly the increase in property taxes.
**Dr. Haimbuchner:** Absolutely. As the FPÖ, we are fundamentally opposed to increasing the tax burden on Austrian citizens. Chancellor Nehammer claims to be against wealth taxes, but let’s be clear: raising property taxes is a stealth wealth tax. It disproportionately impacts homeowners, many of whom are middle-class families.
**Interviewer:** How would you suggest the government address the budget situation without resorting to tax increases?
**Dr. Haimbuchner:** The government needs to prioritize restructuring the budget. We have to look at wasteful spending, streamline bureaucracy, and ensure that taxpayer money is used efficiently. Austrians deserve a government that works for them, not one that picks their pockets.
**Interviewer:** The government argues that these tax increases are necessary to fund public services.
**Dr. Haimbuchner:** The FPÖ believes in responsible spending, not unsustainable tax increases. We need to carefully evaluate our priorities and find innovative solutions to ensure the long-term financial health of Austria without putting an undue burden on our citizens.
**Interviewer:** Dr. Haimbuchner, thank you for sharing your perspective on this important issue.
**Dr. Haimbuchner:** Thank you for having me.
Please note that this interview is based on the provided text excerpt and does not necessarily represent the complete views of Dr. Haimbuchner or the FPÖ. [[1](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Freedom_Party_of_Austria)]
