Keith Fitzgerald wants Congress to force release of members' tax returns

Democratic challenger Keith Fitzgerald has repeatedly -- and unsuccessfully -- chided U.S. Rep. Vern Buchanan to release copies of his income tax returns.

Fitzgerald, who has cited Buchanan's refusal to release his returns as part of a pattern of questionable behavior by the congressman, is now expanding his call by offering a proposal for "transparency" that would have Congress require both its members and candidates for office to release information about their income, taxes paid, etc. once they announce they are running for election or re-election.

"At a time when trust in Congress is at an all-time low, greater transparency and disclosure is needed from all candidates and elected officials. This requirement is a tradition in the Florida legislature and one that Congress should adopt today," Fitzgerald said in a news release. "This is one of many small steps that are needed to regain the public's trust and confidence in our political institutions."


Members of the Florida Legislature and candidates are required to file financial disclosure forms in which they list their assets, liabilities and income. In place of itemizing income, filers have the option of attaching their most recent income tax return.


Fitzgerald released his tax returns in April.