Probably unconstitutional
president Donald trump has hailed his sweeping tariffs on all USA trading partner and imports as a “declaration of economic independence” that has largely been cheered by his populist base as another example of his “America First” priorities.
But a backlash appears to be brewing on the political right as a handful of republican in congress, former trump administration officials, conservative activists and other prominent supporters are expressing doubt about this move as anxieties about higher consumer prices rise.
“President Trump declared that it was in fact ‘liberation day’ his giant tariff policy that he just dropped on the market unilaterally, probably unconstitutionally,” Ben Shapiro, founder of the Daily Wire, said on his program this week.
“There are real-world implications for this sort of stuff,” he added. “Trade wars are in fact not good, and not easy to, particularly if you don’t have a plan.”
Americans also appeared to have soured on this idea even as the administration promises long-term gains.
Trump saw his approval rating dip to 43%, the lowest since his return to office, according to a poll released after the April 1 announcement.
Fifty-two percent of respondents said putting tariffs on vehicles will have a negative impact, including 53% of independents. And after riding a wave of anxiety about risings costs back into the White House, the survey shows 57% of Americans think Trump’s moves to shake up the economy are “too erratic” with 59% of independent voters agreeing with that statement.