Eli is a State Analyst who monitors trends in state tax policy and conducts long-term research. His focus is principally on the border South and California. Prior to joining ITEP in 2022, Eli researched spatial economic inequality and local budgets at Brookings Metro with particular attention to local use of federal funds.
Recent Publications
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Missouri’s Amendment 5 Would Cut Taxes for the Rich and Raise Taxes on Seniors and the Middle Class
July 14, 2026 • By Eli Byerly-Duke
On August 4, Missouri voters will vote on whether to increase taxes on the middle class and seniors to fund tax cuts for the richest households in the state.
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States Like Missouri Are Seeking to Raise Taxes on the Working Class to Cut Taxes for the Rich
March 25, 2026 • By Eli Byerly-Duke
A proposal to replace the Missouri personal income tax with a higher sales tax would increase costs for low- and middle-income households while giving the richest Missourians an average annual tax cut of almost $40,000.
Recent Media Mentions
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The Oklahoman: GOP Candidates Say Income Tax Cuts Would End Oklahoma's Corporate Exodus
June 2, 2026 • By Eli Byerly-Duke
Several leading candidates in the GOP race for governor are calling to eliminate income taxes as a way to attract and retain businesses in Oklahoma.
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KCUR: Eliminating Missouri’s Income Tax Could Actually Cost You More — Unless You’re Rich
February 19, 2026 • By Eli Byerly-Duke
If the state’s income tax is eliminated, experts anticipate that Missouri’s already regressive tax system would become more so. Households with a yearly income of $65,000 would see a $500 tax increase each year, while households in the top 1% would see an average tax cut of nearly $40,000. Read…
