Summary: Noah Smith discusses the negative impact of Donald Trump’s newly announced tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China. He argues that these tariffs could raise consumer prices, disrupt supply chains, and harm American manufacturers. Smith warns that this approach may lead to chaos and worsen relations with U.S. allies.
it’s certainly America’s dumbest trade war in living memory. There’s really no upside for the country here — it’s not going to help domestic manufacturing, it’s not going to make Americans better off, it’s not going to materially affect the fentanyl problem, and on top of all the economic risks it’s going to piss off U.S. allies and make America look terrible. (View Highlight)