Jorge Castro, former Counselor to the IRS Commissioner and congressional tax counsel, discussed President Trump's pick of Ken Kies as Treasury Assistant Secretary for Tax Policy. Castro noted that the early timing of the appointment signals that tax reform will be a major focus in Washington this year. Castro said that Kies, a seasoned tax lobbyist with decades of experience, is a "serious pick," emphasizing that it shows the Trump Administration sees the role as "extremely consequential" in the upcoming tax debate. Castro also pointed out the need for trust between the executive and legislative branches to get major tax legislation across the finish line, saying that "Smith and Crapo are going to need [the Trump Administration's strong support]" to navigate a narrow GOP majority in the House.