Slate News What Next | The Upside Of Tariffs
Apr 7, 2025
Jonathan Last, Editor of The Bulwark and a sharp political commentator, dives into the intricate world of tariffs in this engaging discussion. He scrutinizes the consequences of Trump’s tariff policies and whether they truly benefit America. The conversation explores how economic downturns can empower authoritarian leaders and highlights the political maneuvering behind tariffs. Last also examines businesses' conflicting responses and the disconnect between economic facts and public sentiment, all while emphasizing the importance of solidarity in a democratic context.
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A Modest Proposal
- Jonathan Last's "A Modest Proposal" suggests letting Trump's policies play out.
- This allows the public to experience the consequences and potentially shift public opinion.
Tariffs' Economic Impact
- Trump's tariff policy will likely negatively impact the economy.
- The White House's justification, viewing any trade imbalance as problematic, is economically unsound.
Trump's Economic Purge
- Trump has a history of advocating for economic hardship as a path to national greatness.
- A 2014 Fox News appearance reveals Trump discussing crashing the economy, riots, and a purging as solutions.