WASHINGTON: Vice President JD Vance defended President Trump’s tariffs, calling them a major but necessary change for the U.S. economy.
Tariff Justification
Vance argued that the U.S. has relied too much on foreign-made goods. He criticized the practice of borrowing money from China. He believes this system increases national debt and weakens American industries. According to Vance, Trump’s tariffs will shift the economy toward domestic production. He said Trump campaigned on this promise and is now fulfilling it.
Economic Direction
Vance told “Fox & Friends” that the U.S. needs a different economic path. He acknowledged that these tariffs represent a major shift. However, he insisted that drastic action was needed to protect American jobs. He emphasized that the administration is committed to economic reform. Vance stated that long-term benefits outweigh short-term disruptions.
Price Challenges
He admitted that price reductions wouldn’t happen overnight. Vance suggested that inflation from the Biden era was already affecting consumers. He downplayed concerns that tariffs would further increase costs. Instead, he positioned them as part of a broader economic correction. The administration, he said, is working hard to stabilize prices.
Tax Policy
Republicans are pushing for tax cuts under Trump’s economic plan. Vance dismissed the idea of using tax cuts to balance tariffs. He described the strategy as a fundamental shift in economic priorities. The goal, he said, is to reward American workers and businesses. He believes this approach will strengthen the economy in the long run. Vance suggested that domestic industries will benefit from these policies.
Personal Experience
Reflecting on his upbringing, Vance highlighted his understanding of financial struggles. He shared that his family often lived paycheck to paycheck. Many Americans, he said, worry about living costs. The administration, he claimed, is actively working to lower expenses. He reaffirmed Trump’s commitment to creating economic stability.
Policy Goals
Vance framed the tariffs as a means of rebuilding American industry. He suggested that reliance on foreign goods is unsustainable. Economic self-sufficiency, he argued, is necessary for prosperity. He reiterated Trump’s commitment to this vision. The administration, he said, is focused on long-term benefits.
