On March 1, after weeks of “absolute chaos” within his administration, Trump held a hastily arranged “listening session” with metals executives.
Trump announced — to the surprise of his staff — that he’d be imposing import tariffs of 25 percent on steel and 10 percent on aluminum, and that these tariffs would last “a long period of time.” Trump reportedly chose 25 percent duties because a round number “sounds better.”
Reaction to Trump’s informal announcement was swift, widespread — and harsh. The stock market, which Trump cites as confirmation of his economic genius, plunged 420 points. The Wall Street Journal called the tariffs the “biggest policy blunder” of Trump’s presidency.
Continue reading at The Hill.
