Trump, Tariffs and the Truth About His Economic Plans
Sep 12, 2024
auto_awesome
Binyamin Appelbaum, a member of the Times Editorial Board analyzing economic issues, questions the economic plans of Donald Trump and Kamala Harris. He argues that Trump's policies—such as cutting taxes and raising tariffs—will worsen conditions for consumers. The discussion highlights the impact of immigration and critiques trickle-down economics. Listeners explore the need for clear economic strategies from politicians as they consider the potential consequences of their choices on the nation’s economic future.
Trump's economic policies, including tax cuts for the wealthy and immigration restrictions, may harm consumers and worsen wealth inequality.
In contrast to Trump, Harris promotes clear housing solutions aimed at increasing affordability through new unit incentives, illustrating differing priorities.
Deep dives
Economic Policies and Their Impact
The discussion centers around the contrasting economic policies of Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump, particularly in the context of the ongoing election. Many Americans identify the high cost of living as the most pressing issue, with concerns about grocery prices and housing affordability at the forefront. Trump’s economic agenda includes tariffs, tax cuts for the wealthy, and strict immigration policies, which critics argue will ultimately burden American consumers. Evidence suggests that Trump's approach, particularly around tax cuts, does not benefit the broader economy but instead exacerbates wealth inequality as the rich grow richer without trickle-down effects.
Diverging Visions for Housing Affordability
A stark difference emerges between the candidates regarding housing policy, with Harris advocating for three million new housing units through tax incentives and support for first-time buyers. In contrast, Trump proposes immigration enforcement as a solution to housing issues, despite the fact that immigrant workers contribute significantly to construction and the economy. Critics highlight that his plans could actually worsen housing availability and affordability, showcasing a lack of understanding of the complexities involved. While Harris has laid out some clear proposals to improve housing access, Trump’s immigration-focused rhetoric fails to address the root causes of the housing crisis.
For voters whose top issue is the economy, the choice is clear, argues Binyamin Appelbaum, a member of the Times Editorial Board. Though Vice President Kamala Harris’s plans may be ill-defined, he says, Donald Trump’s plans — curbing immigration, raising tariffs and cutting taxes — would actually leave consumers worse off than they are today.
Thoughts? Email us at theopinions@nytimes.com
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode