A property tax revolt is spreading — with help from key conservatives

With real estate prices climbing and household budgets under strain, a once-fringe push to eliminate property taxes is drawing new energy — and the backing of high-profile conservative figures.

Republican firebrand Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia recently argued for making it a national priority. Billionaire Elon Musk has likened property taxes to “a de facto lease from the government” that should be abolished. And in Florida, Gov. Ron DeSantis, a once and possible future presidential contender, has vowed to move his state in that direction.

“If you own your home, to truly own it, you have to own it free and clear of the government,” DeSantis said Tuesday.

For decades, property taxes have underwritten the basic functions of local government — schools, parks, roads, police and f