'Mission Accomplished' hype regarding tariffs is just that
vindy.com -- Saturday, August 16, 2025, 12:27:01 AM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: Economic Policy & Jobs, Trade Policy & Tariffs
On May 1, 2003, George W. Bush announced, "Major combat operations in Iraq have ended." He was standing below a giant banner that read, "Mission Accomplished." At the risk of inviting charges of understatement, subsequent events didn't cooperate.
But it took a while for that to be widely accepted.
We're in a similar place when it comes to President Trump's experiment with a new global trading order.
"Tariffs are making our country Strong and Rich!!!" proclaims Trump, making him not only the first Republican president in living memory to brag about raising taxes on Americans, but also the first to insist that raising taxes on Americans makes us richer.
MAGA's mission-accomplished groupthink relies primarily on three arguments.
The first is that Trump has successfully concluded a slew of beneficial trade deals.
The truth is that some of those deals are simply "frameworks" that will take a long time to be ironed out. But Trump got the headlines he wanted.
The second argument is a kind of populism-infused sleight of hand. The "experts" -- their scare quotes, not mine -- are wrong once again.
The White House social media account crows, "In April, 'experts' called tariffs 'the biggest policy mistake in 95 years.' By July, they generated OVER $100 BILLION in revenue. Facts expose the haters: tariffs WORK. Trust in Trump."
But the high-fivers are leaving things out. The most-dire predictions of economic catastrophe were based on the scheme Trump announced on April 2, a.k.a. "Liberation Day."
Trump quickly backed off that plan ("chickened out" in Wall Street parlance ) in response to a bond and stock market implosion.
Saying the experts were wrong under those circumstances is like saying experts opposed to defenestration were wrong when they successfully convinced a man not to jump out a window.
The third argument, made by the White House and many others -- that tariffs are working because they're raising money -- is a response to a claim no one made. To my knowledge, no expert claimed tariffs wouldn't raise money.
The estimates of these revenues from Trump world are stratospheric. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick expects somewhere between $700 billion and $1 trillion per year. Last month, the government collected $29 billion.
It's likely this number will significantly increase as more tariffs come online and businesses run down the inventory they stockpiled earlier this year in anticipation of more tariffs to come.
Normally, Republicans don't exult over massive revenues from tax hikes. But Trump's defenders get around this problem by insisting that money is "pouring" and "flowing" into America from someplace else.
It's true that tariff revenue is pouring into the Treasury, but that money is coming out of American bank accounts, because American importers pay the tariff. Even Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent cannot deny this when pressed.
So yes, tariffs are "working" the way they're supposed to; the problem is Trump thinks tariffs work differently than they do.
It's possible some foreign exporters might lower prices to maintain market share, and some American businesses might absorb the costs -- for now -- to avoid sticker shock for inflation-beleaguered consumers, but what revenue is generated still comes from Americans.
Ultimately it means higher prices paid here, reduced profits for businesses here or reduced U.S. trade overall.
Sometimes, when pressed, defenders of the administration will concede the true source of the revenues, but then they say the pain is necessary to force manufacturers and other businesses to build and produce in the United States. It's backdoor industrial policy masquerading as trade policy.
That, too, might "work." But all of this will take time, no matter what. And, if it works, that will have costs, too. Manufacturing in America is more expensive -- that's why we manufacture so much stuff abroad in the first place. If this "reshoring" happens, our goods will be more expensive and less money will "pour in" from tariffs.
It's difficult to exaggerate how well-understood all of this was on the American right until very recently. But the need to grab any argument available to declare Trump's experiment a success has a lot of people not only abandoning their previous dogma but leaping to the conclusion that the dogma was wrong all along.
Maybe it was, though I don't think so.
The evidence so far suggests that problems are looming. The dollar is weakening.
Prices continue to rise. The job market is reeling. The stock market (an unreliable metric, according to MAGA, when it plummeted after Liberation Day) is holding on, thanks to tech stocks.
The truth is we won't have real evidence for a while.
It's worth remembering that Americans don't live by headlines and press releases and they don't live in the macro economy either. Declaring "Mission Accomplished" for the macro economy won't convince people they're better off in their own micro-economies when they're not.
Jonah Goldberg is editor-in-chief of The Dispatch and the host of The Remnant podcast. His Twitter handle is @JonahDispatch.
Sign Our PetitionIn the context of contemporary economic policy, the rhetoric surrounding tariffs under the Trump administration serves as a significant case study, echoing historical precedents where ambitious economic measures failed to deliver on their promises. The article draws a compelling parallel between the inflated claims made during the Iraq War with the misleading narratives surrounding Trump’s tariffs, particularly in the way both were framed as transformative successes that failed to materialize. This framing becomes crucial for understanding how government messaging can perpetuate economic hardship while masking the deeper implications of policy decisions that disproportionately affect working-class Americans.
Historically, tariffs have been a contentious tool in American economic policy, often wielded by leaders as a means to protect domestic industries. However, the effectiveness of such measures is typically contingent on a range of factors, including global economic conditions and the responsiveness of industries to protectionist measures. The article highlights how Trump’s tariffs, initially touted as a means to bolster American manufacturing and reduce trade deficits, have instead resulted in increased costs for consumers. This reflects a broader trend where protectionist policies can inadvertently harm the very constituencies they are intended to protect, particularly when they are not accompanied by systemic reforms and investments in domestic industries that could enhance competitiveness.
The populist narrative constructed by the Trump administration, which sought to position tariffs as a tool for economic populism, is particularly problematic. By suggesting that raising taxes on imports somehow benefited Americans, the administration obscured the fact that these costs ultimately fell on consumers and businesses. The article critically examines this rhetoric, pointing out the contradictions in claiming that tariffs would enrich the country while simultaneously acknowledging that the burden of those tariffs would impact American wallets. This situation mirrors historical instances where populist leaders have used economic nationalism to galvanize support, often at the expense of the very economic stability they claim to champion.
Moreover, the reliance on anecdotal evidence and selective data points in the Trump administration's claims about tariffs echoes a long-standing tactic used by political leaders to bolster their narratives. The article's critique of the administration's approach highlights the danger in cherry-picking data to support policy claims, which can lead to broader economic misconceptions. By framing tariffs as a source of revenue without addressing their economic repercussions, the administration diverted attention away from the reality that these policies could exacerbate income inequality and undermine the purchasing power of everyday Americans. This tactic is reminiscent of previous administrations that have prioritized short-term political gains over long-term economic health.
Finally, the ongoing debates around tariffs and trade policies serve as a reminder of the importance of critical engagement with economic narratives presented by political leaders. The historical context of tariffs, combined with the current economic struggles faced by many Americans, provides an opportunity for advocates of social justice and economic equity to challenge the prevailing narratives. By grounding discussions of tariffs in historical analysis and a commitment to equitable economic policies, it becomes possible to push back against the simplistic and often misleading rhetoric that characterizes contemporary political discourse. As the economy continues to evolve, it is imperative to advocate for policies that prioritize the welfare of working-class Americans rather than the interests of a select few—ensuring that economic growth translates into tangible benefits for all.
The recent analysis surrounding President Trump's tariffs provides a revealing lens through which we can examine not only the current economic landscape but also the broader implications of such policies on the American populace. The historical context is essential: tariffs in the United States have a long and contentious history, often invoked as tools for both protectionism and revenue generation. However, the narrative surrounding these tariffs during the Trump administration appears to be more about political posturing than genuine economic strategy. As we explore this issue, it is critical to consider the implications of these policies on working Americans, particularly in light of the historical struggles against economic inequality.
Historically, tariffs have been used to protect domestic industries; yet, they often come at a cost to consumers and small businesses. The irony of Trump's position is that while he touts tariffs as a means to make America "strong and rich," the reality is that these taxes on imports disproportionately affect everyday Americans. The assertion that tariffs lead to job creation is often overshadowed by the fact that they also raise prices on goods, making life more expensive for the average consumer. This economic burden particularly impacts low- and middle-income families who spend a larger portion of their income on essential goods. When discussing tariffs with those who may not see the broader implications, it's important to highlight this fundamental inequity and frame it in the context of working-class struggles.
Engaging in this conversation requires a willingness to delve deeper into the economic narratives pushed by current leadership. For instance, the claim that tariffs generate significant revenue is misleading. While it is true that they do raise money for the government, this revenue is ultimately derived from the pockets of American consumers and businesses that must pay higher prices. The growth in revenue from tariffs does not offset the potential job losses that occur in industries reliant on imported goods, nor does it consider the ripple effects on the economy as a whole. Therefore, when confronted with the rhetoric of tariffs as a solution, it is crucial to counter with data showing how these policies can lead to unemployment and economic stagnation in certain sectors, thus perpetuating the cycle of inequality.
Moreover, the historical tendency of tariffs to incite retaliatory measures from other countries cannot be overlooked. The trade wars sparked by Trump’s tariffs have led to strained international relations and have hurt American farmers and manufacturers who rely on export markets. This aspect of the discussion is particularly salient for those on the right who often champion free markets and competition. By framing the conversation in terms of economic interdependence and the negative consequences of isolationist policies, we can push back against the notion that tariffs are a panacea for our economic woes.
As engaged citizens, it is imperative that we not only challenge the misleading narratives surrounding tariffs but also advocate for policies that genuinely support American workers. One actionable step is to promote comprehensive trade policies that prioritize fair wages and labor rights, both domestically and abroad. Furthermore, grassroots organizing and community engagement can help shift the focus toward supporting local businesses that prioritize ethical labor practices and sustainable sourcing, thereby reducing reliance on imported goods that are subject to tariff hikes. By fostering a culture of solidarity and mutual support, we can build a more equitable economic system that benefits all Americans, rather than a select few.
In conclusion, the discussion around tariffs is not merely an economic debate; it is a reflection of larger societal values and priorities. As we engage with those who hold differing views, it is essential to advocate for a vision of economic justice that transcends partisan divides. By highlighting the historical implications of tariffs, their disproportionate impacts on working families, and the need for progressive economic policies, we can foster a more informed and productive dialogue. Ultimately, the aim should be to create an economic landscape that works for everyone, not just the privileged few, and it begins with challenging the status quo and advocating for systemic change.
The article discusses the complexities and potential pitfalls of President Trump's tariff strategy, suggesting that while tariffs may generate revenue, they ultimately burden American consumers and businesses. In light of this analysis, here are actionable steps we can take to address these issues:
### Personal Actions 1. **Educate Yourself and Others**: - Understand the implications of tariffs on everyday goods and the economy. Share this knowledge with friends and family to raise awareness.
2. **Support Local Economies**: - Choose to buy local products or items that are not significantly impacted by tariffs. This helps support domestic businesses and reduces reliance on imported goods.
3. **Advocate for Fair Trade Practices**: - Engage in discussions about fair trade vs. free trade. Advocate for policies that prioritize ethical labor practices and environmental standards.
### Exact Actions 1. **Petitions**: - **Sign and Share Petitions**: - Use platforms like Change.org or MoveOn.org to find existing petitions against harmful tariff practices. For example, search for petitions addressing trade policies that disproportionately impact consumers. - Example petitions you might find: - "Stop Tariffs that Hurt American Consumers" - "Support Fair Trade over Tariffs" 2. **Contact Your Representatives**: - **Write to Local Representatives**: - Identify your local and state representatives and express your concerns regarding tariffs. Use sites like [GovTrack.us](https://www.govtrack.us/) to find your representatives. - Example contact details: - **Senator Elizabeth Warren**: Email: senator_warren@warren.senate.gov - **Representative Ayanna Pressley**: Email: contact@pressley.house.gov - **What to Say**: - "Dear [Representative's Name], I am writing to express my concerns about the current tariff policies that are impacting American consumers and businesses. Tariffs are effectively tax increases on everyday goods and disproportionately burden lower and middle-income families. I urge you to support policies that prioritize fair trade practices and protect consumers from unnecessary financial strain."
3. **Engage on Social Media**: - Use platforms like Twitter or Facebook to follow and engage with policymakers and organizations advocating for fair trade. Share your views and support campaigns aimed at reforming tariff policies. - Example hashtags to use: #FairTrade #StopTariffs #ConsumerProtection
4. **Participate in Local Advocacy Groups**: - Join organizations that focus on trade reform, economic justice, or consumer rights. Engage in their campaigns and attend local events to amplify your voice. - Examples of organizations: - **Public Citizen**: Focuses on trade policies that benefit consumers. - **Economic Policy Institute**: Advocates for fair economic policies.
5. **Attend Town Hall Meetings**: - Participate in town hall meetings held by your representatives. Use this opportunity to directly voice your concerns about tariffs and ask questions about their positions on trade policies.
6. **Support Economic Research**: - Contribute or donate to think tanks or research organizations that conduct studies on the economic impact of tariffs. For instance, the **Brookings Institution** and the **Urban Institute** provide valuable insights into trade policies.
### Conclusion By taking these actions, we can collectively influence policy and advocate for fairer trade practices that prioritize the well-being of American consumers and the economy as a whole.