Trump’s Tariffs Are Latest Sign of His Second-Term Appetite for Risk – The New York Times
So, here’s what’s stirring things up in Washington: Donald Trump’s latest round of tariffs has not only shaken the markets but also opened up a serious rift inside the Republican Party.
Let’s break it down in plain terms.
What’s Happening?
Former President Trump is back in the headlines after unveiling new sweeping tariffs targeting U.S. trading partners. While he’s pitching it as a bold move to protect American jobs, not everyone in his party is cheering him on.
In fact, some of the most influential Republican senators and conservative donors are openly pushing back. Yep, you read that right—his own team isn’t fully on board this time.
Why Are Republicans Divided on Trump’s Tariffs?
Trump has always leaned more toward economic nationalism, which clashes with traditional Republican values like free markets and limited government. This latest round of tariffs just made that ideological gap more obvious.
Take Art Pope, a longtime Republican donor and retail business magnate. He called Trump’s tariff move “disastrous” and warned it could cause a major split between Reagan-era conservatives and Trump’s populist base.
Even Senator Mitch McConnell, normally measured in his tone, didn’t hold back:
“Tariffs are bad policy. Trade wars hurt working people most.”
That’s a pretty loud alarm bell from a senior GOP voice.
What’s the Economic Impact So Far?
Let’s talk numbers. After Trump’s announcement:
- The S&P 500 dropped nearly 5%
- The Nasdaq Composite plummeted 6%
These aren’t just blips. They’re signs that investors are genuinely nervous. Businesses, especially those reliant on global supply chains, are feeling the heat.
Is This Just Noise, or a Real Political Shift?
Well, four Republican senators—McConnell, Rand Paul, Lisa Murkowski, and Susan Collins—joined forces with Democrats to demand a halt to tariffs on Canada. While the resolution might not pass in the House, it sends a powerful message:
Not everyone’s following Trump’s lead this time.
Even Chuck Grassley, a seasoned senator from Iowa, proposed new legislation to curb the president’s power to unilaterally impose tariffs.
And that’s not all. Some conservatives are suggesting Trump’s tariff strategy isn’t just temporary. It could signal a permanent shift toward protectionism.
“If this lasts another quarter, I think the dam breaks,” said Tim Chapman, a think-tank leader with ties to Mike Pence.
But Not Everyone Thinks It’s Doom and Gloom
Supporters argue this is about long-term wins, not short-term pain. They believe realigning trade rules will boost domestic manufacturing and make the U.S. less dependent on countries like China.
Trump mega-donor Robert Bigelow put it bluntly:
“We’ve been too lax for years. It’s time to manufacture more at home.”
And GOP pollster Adam Geller dismissed the internal criticism as mere “whining,” confident Trump will eventually win the debate.
So, What Does This Mean for Americans?
Here’s the crux: tariffs are a double-edged sword.
On one hand, they aim to protect American industries and jobs. On the other, they often raise prices for everyday essentials—like gas, groceries, and electronics.
Senator Murkowski summed it up best in a recent post:
“Alaskan families and businesses can’t afford rising costs on essential goods.”
It’s a valid concern, especially with inflation still on people’s minds.
Final Thought: Will Tariffs Re-Define the Republican Party?
This story isn’t just about economics—it’s about identity. Trump’s tariff push is exposing a deep philosophical divide within the GOP. Is the party still the home of free markets? Or is it evolving into something new under Trump’s leadership?
For now, one thing is clear: the conversation is far from over, and the upcoming months could redefine both the party—and the economy.
✅ Quick Summary for Featured Snippet:
Donald Trump’s new tariffs have sparked a divide within the Republican Party. Key GOP senators and donors are pushing back, warning of economic harm and political fracture. Meanwhile, Trump loyalists argue the tariffs are necessary for long-term trade realignment.
#Trump tariffs #Republican divide #US trade policy #Tariff impact on economy #GOP economic strategy,
