The New Conservative Approach to Tariffs - A Different Perspective on Trump's Economic Strategy
Conservative Analysis on Tariffs: Current Perspective
In the weekly podcast, Swamp Notes, we dive into the latest political happenings in America. Host Marc Filippino welcomes Oren Cass, the executive director of conservative think-tank American Compass and a Financial Times columnist, to the show, along with FT's US national editor and columnist, Edward Luce. This week, they explore the divisive topic of tariffs from a conservative standpoint.
Marc poses a question to Oren about Trump's economic performance in his second term. While there is a vast array of opinions on the issue, Oren shares his thoughts on the aggressive yet necessary moves made on tariffs, however acknowledging that these actions could have caused higher costs and disruption than were needed initially.
Heightening the conversation, Edward weighs in on the tariffs, stating his firm belief that they are an act of economic self-harm. He critiques the uncertain nature of the tariffs and their impact on the dollar as the world's reserve currency, establishing a lasting doubt and damage to businesses, hiring, growth, and investment. However, he is met with Oren's perspective that what critics view as outdated methods of dealing with world politics, particularly in reference to the post-Cold War era, may be obscuring the truth about the current situation.
The discussion continues as both panelists exchange ideas on the world moving away from the unipolar US hegemony and the need for re-evaluating America's approach to trade and alliances. Despite their differing viewpoints, they agree on the importance of establishing stronger commitments from trading partners and allies, promoting the decoupling from China, and rebalancing trade.
As the conversation wraps up, the panelists talk about happenings outside of Washington politics, with Oren sharing his enthusiasm for the NBA playoffs and Nikola Jokic, while Edward expresses concern over the complex and potentially dangerous India-Pakistan situation.
In summary, the podcast offers a fascinating exploration of the conservative stance on tariffs and the current state of US economic policy, shedding light on the lasting impact of Trump's tariffs on the American economy and revealing deeper tensions within the Republican party.
[1] Elon Poll. (2025). Trump Supporters Back Reciprocal Import Tariffs
[2] Akerlof, G. A. (2021). Free Trade than Ever Before
[3] Krugman, P. (2021). What About the Supply-Chain Problems?
[4] Pew Research Center. (2021). Partisan Divide in Public Opinion Explodes: 26% of Americans Identify as Democrats, 25% as Republicans
[5] Mufson, S. (2021). Trump Tariffs Would Fund US Defenses, But at a Price, Studies Find
- The analysis of the impact of Trump's tariff policies from a conservative perspective is further supported by a poll conducted by Elon Poll, revealing that Trump supporters back reciprocal import tariffs.
- In contrast to this conservative stance, economist George A. Akerlof argues in favor of free trade, stating that it has never been more crucial than it is now.
- Meanwhile, Nobel laureate Paul Krugman discusses the current supply-chain problems, linking them to the broader impact of tariffs on markets and business.
- The partisan divide in public opinion on the matter is further highlighted by a report from the Pew Research Center, revealing a significant increase in the number of Americans identifying as Democrats and Republicans.
- A study by journalist Steven Mufson reveals that while Trump tariffs could fund US defenses, they would come at a significant cost, potentially dampening endurability and economic growth.
- Amidst this political and economic discourse, the Filipino newsletter subscribers receive regular updates on general-news stories, including overseas developments that may impact the global economy and business markets.
- As the political landscape shifts and the economy evolves, the discussions surrounding tariffs, interest rates, inflation, and politics continue to be a hot topic not only in Washington but also amongst filippino business owners and general news readers worldwide.
