The Missing Middle with Mike Moffatt and Sabrina Maddeaux

How Trump's Tariffs Will Hurt the Middle-class

Jan 22, 2025

20:05

Political pundit Sabrina Meadow and economist Mike Moffatt delve into the complexities of tariffs, particularly in the context of the impending policies under the new Donald Trump's administration. They explore what tariffs are, their implications for the middle class in both the US and Canada, and the public's understanding of these taxes. The conversation highlights the anxiety surrounding trade deficits and the potential economic fallout for consumers and businesses alike. Mike and Sabrina discuss how tariffs act as hidden taxes for consumers, the potential retaliatory measures Canada could take, and the political motivations behind the trade tensions.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

01:00 Understanding tariffs

03:07 Public perception and the impact of a tariff threat

05:19 Does Canada really need the US more than it needs us?

07:00 The American middle class will be hurt by tariffs

08:03 Why are Canadian businesses so worried?

10:18 The effects on the Canadian middle class

11:06 Retaliation strategies and economic consequences

13:01 Nobody wins a trade war

15:19 Political theater vs. real economic threats

18:24 The role of citizens in trade wars