Chronicle poll results: Trump’s tariffs
We asked our readers if they believe Trump's tariffs will benefit the US economy. Here's what they said.
Last week, the Chronicle asked its readers in an online poll the following question: “Do you believe Donald Trump’s tariffs on foreign goods will be beneficial to the U.S. economy?” Of the 428 people who responded, 78% said no, 18% said yes and 4% said they weren’t sure. Comments were submitted by 134 people. A few follow.
They will not be beneficial to any country’s economy, only to rich politicians who can take advantage of them for personal gain. Even a sound tariff policy would damage our economy, and the approach Trump is taking is nonsensical. He has studied neither economics nor history.
His chainsaw approach to this and many things is nuts.
Stupidest move ever, especially for a Wharton School grad! He has no understanding of tariffs and economics, just twisted obsessions with retribution. Recession is imminent.
A big problem with the tariffs is that Trump has not communicated a clear strategy or end goal. I have heard the administration give three different, mutually exclusive reasons for the tariffs: raising revenue, enhancing the U.S. position in the global market by renegotiating trade deals with other countries, and bringing manufacturing back to the U.S. Goals 1 and 2 are contradictory: If the tariffs are a negotiating tactic, you can’t also use them to raise revenue because they will likely go away eventually. Goals 2 and 3 are also contradictory: You can’t restore global free trade while also bringing manufacturing back to the U.S. So, what is the real explanation for why Trump just trashed my 401k? Does anyone know?
I agree we need to put the USA first.
I’m no economist, but I see only ill effects thus far, including in terms of world relations, which, among other considerations, can and will have a long-term impact on our economic health.
The U.S. economy is strong, and may survive despite of Trump’s tariffs, not because of them. Trump has to go.
Give it time. It will work. Don’t listen to “talk” — review facts.
The last time the U.S. set up tariffs we ended in a depression. I see the same thing happening today.
Absolutely not. The current administration has destroyed an economy that had been steadily rising for years. If the situation doesn’t settle down quickly the only winners will be the uber wealthy who can afford to buy distressed stocks before they recover. The USA has made enemies of our friends.
Hang tough, I believe that getting this imbalance of tariffs will in the benefit the USA.
I think we are headed into a bad time unless Congress steps up and defies Trump. Costs are going up and we are suffering!
A tariff is only useful when the domestic market has a competitive product to offer against any imports. Otherwise, it’s just taking money out of the pockets of American citizens whose only option is an imported good. Also, what the hell is up with that tariff on Israel? Not cool, Mr. President! PJC
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