Every U.S. Presidential candidate since Richard Nixon has voluntarily released copies of their tax returns to the public so that voters can assess the amount and sources of income, taxes paid, charitable contributions and other data which can affect our propensity to elect them.

Donald Trump has refused to do so, claiming this might affect audits of his returns currently underway. This claim, on its face, is absurd, since he would simply be releasing information the IRS already has. No new information would be disclosed.

We should insist that Mr Trump adhere to the same custom as past Presidential candidates, and encourage the FEC to make tax return disclosure a requirement in future elections.