The Andrew Klavan Show A Hot Take On Trump's Economic Policies w/Batya Ungar-Sargon
Dec 31, 2025
Batya Ungar-Sargon, a journalist, political commentator, and author, joins for an insightful discussion. She argues that Trump’s policies reflect a blend of old-school leftism, tying his tariffs to labor dignity and protectionism. They explore governmental roles in industry, healthcare financing, and the limits of taxation. Batya also addresses cultural priorities, like marriage and faith, while critiquing elite messaging. Listen in as she unveils her vision for the future of leadership post-Trump, naming figures like Marco Rubio and Tulsi Gabbard as potential successors.
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Trump As A Protectionist, Not Pure Right
- Batya argues Trump's economic agenda resembles old-school leftism that prioritizes the dignity of labor over unfettered markets.
- She sees his coalition as a modern FDR-style alliance protecting working-class interests through protectionist measures.
Dignity Of Labor Over Market Purism
- She says Trump values the dignity of work above market freedom and thus supports protection to preserve American labor.
- That protectionist stance targets outsourcing and global arbitrage that hollowed out U.S. manufacturing.
Use Carrots And Sticks To Reshore Jobs
- Batya praises Trump's mix of incentives and pressure: use tax breaks to reshore and tariffs as leverage.
- She urges combining carrots (0% corporate tax offers) with sticks (tariffs) to change corporate behavior without heavy-handed nationalization.