Trump's Tariffs: Protectionism, Politics, and the Global Economy - From First Term to Liberation Day by Steel Travis C

Author:Steel, Travis C.
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2025-04-08T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter 9

Tariffs and the Ballot Box: The Political Legacy of Protectionism

Tariffs are often discussed in terms of trade deficits, manufacturing jobs, and global competitiveness. But they are also profoundly political. In Donald Trump’s America, tariffs weren’t just about economics—they were a rallying cry, a symbol of strength, and a core feature of his populist narrative.

This chapter explores how Trump’s protectionist agenda reshaped U.S. domestic politics. It traces how tariffs became a potent political weapon, evaluates their electoral impact, and examines whether the politics of protectionism has outlived the man who popularized it.

1. Tariffs as Political Theater

From the campaign trail to the Oval Office, tariffs played a central role in Trump’s messaging:

a. The Return of Economic Nationalism

Trump’s 2016 campaign promised to put “America First”—a message that resonated with voters who felt left behind by globalization.

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