Former President Donald Trump asserted on Monday that if reelected, he would have the authority to unilaterally implement his tariff proposals without the need for congressional support. Speaking at an event in Smithton, Pennsylvania, Trump stated that while he prefers to have the backing of lawmakers, he believes he can proceed without it.
Trump dismissed concerns raised by economists about potential price increases for Americans resulting from his tariff plans, stating that those who understand business are supportive. He highlighted GOP Senate candidate Dave McCormick's endorsement of his 'fair reciprocal trade' policies as an example of such support.
According to a former senior trade official, Trump could likely impose the tariffs he has proposed unilaterally, although Congress could potentially revise existing laws to limit his trade authority. Trump's tariff proposals include levies on all $3 trillion worth of imports into the United States, with a 60% tariff on Chinese imports and a 10% across-the-board tariff on imports from other countries. He has also mentioned the possibility of imposing tariffs of up to 20% on most imports to safeguard working-class jobs and address what he perceives as unfair trade practices.
