The Commentary Magazine Podcast Trump in Asia
14 snips
Oct 28, 2025 The hosts dive into Donald Trump's Asia trip, focusing on his approach to trade with Xi Jinping. They discuss the impact of tariffs on prices and public perception, arguing that these issues overshadow Trump's foreign policy achievements. A debate on whether the U.S. possesses real leverage over China follows, alongside reflections on historical trade philosophies from Reagan to Trump. The conversation touches on legal challenges surrounding emergency tariff powers, political distractions, and Trump's unique strategy of maintaining a provocative 'shadow' in politics.
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Tariffs Are A Visible Political Risk
- Americans notice price jumps and instinctively blame tariffs, shaping political risk for Trump.
- John Podhoretz argues visible price increases could erode Trump's economic gains and political standing.
Mom Notices Prices Double For Kids' Pants
- John Podhoretz recounts his wife's discovery that their son's pants cost twice as much as three months ago.
- He uses this household example to show how everyday observations link price rises to tariffs.
Asia Trip Builds Leverage For Xi Meeting
- Trump is leveraging alliances and rare-earth deals to pressure China before meeting Xi Jinping.
- Abe Greenwald says the Asia trip pairs bilateral deals with alliance signaling to create negotiating leverage.