The Indicator from Planet Money
Dealmaker Don v. Tariff Man Trump
Apr 23, 2025
Mark Fisher, a Washington Post journalist and co-author of Trump, Revealed, sheds light on Donald Trump's complex relationship with tariffs. They explore whether Trump’s tariffs are mere negotiation tactics or permanent fixtures in his economic strategy. Fisher discusses Trump's childhood influences and his view of life as a series of battles. The conversation dives into Trump’s negotiation style, reflecting on how his grievances shape his policies and the psychological factors driving his decisions.
09:23
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Quick takeaways
- Donald Trump's negotiation style, shaped by his upbringing, reveals a tendency to prioritize personal victories over strict economic principles.
- His belief in tariffs as a solution to restore American strength reflects a historical narrative intertwined with his psychological motivations and identity.
Deep dives
The Dual Nature of Donald Trump
Donald Trump's persona oscillates between being a dealmaker and a staunch advocate for tariffs, with both traits deeply rooted in his background. His early exposure to negotiating deals alongside his father shaped his approach to success, where losing is not an option, and every situation is framed as a victory. Trump's history is marked by his desire to dominate negotiations and achieve perceived wins, suggesting that his actions around tariffs may be more about maintaining a winning image than adhering to strict economic principles. This duality indicates that he does not see these characteristics as mutually exclusive, but rather as interconnected facets of his identity.
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