Higher tariffs likely this week, says US Treasury
BBC News8 hrs
Trump to Raise Global Tariff to 15%, Bessent Claims
Are Trump's tariffs essential protection for American prosperity or an unmitigated disaster for small businesses and families?
Above: U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent at the Economic Club Of Dallas in Dallas, Texas, on Feb. 20. Image credit: Richard Rodriguez/Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-Trump narrative
Despite the Supreme Court's attempt to sabotage Trump's trade policy, the administration will continue to protect American industries and workers by raising the global baseline tariff rate to 15%. These economic protections are essential for American prosperity, both as leverage in trade negotiations and as a lure to attract private sector jobs and investment back to the U.S.
Anti-Trump narrative
It is clear to everyone that Trump's tariffs have been an unmitigated disaster for ordinary Americans. Yet, despite the Supreme Court offering the administration a way out, they are continuing to double down on their failed trade policy. This folly will only exacerbate a bad situation to the detriment of small businesses and families across the country.