Top 10 reasons Tariffs are good

Overview

In the wake of President Donald Trump's recent imposition of tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China, critics have been quick to highlight potential downsides. However, an alternative perspective reveals that these tariffs may serve strategic purposes beyond just economic protectionism. Tariffs can be a powerful tool for economic leverage, national security, and political strategy. This article explores ten reasons why tariffs are actually beneficial for the United States, provide insights into the possible hidden motives behind Canada's and Mexico's responses, and examine Trump's history of using chaos as a negotiation tool.

Reason #1. Tariffs as a Negotiation Tactic

One of Trump's most defining strategies in both business and politics is the use of high-stakes negotiations. Tariffs serve as an opening gambit, forcing other nations to the negotiating table under duress. As NBC News reports, Trump's recent tariffs on Mexico and Canada have led to "a flurry of diplomatic activity," as leaders scramble to mitigate economic fallout (NBC News). By imposing tariffs, Trump gains leverage to extract more favorable trade terms.

Reason #2. Causing Chaos to Achieve Order

Trump has often wielded chaos as a tool to achieve his objectives. His tariffs, while seemingly disruptive, are part of a broader strategy to realign global trade in favor of the U.S. The New York Times notes that "businesses worldwide are struggling to adjust to the shifting economic landscape," proving that Trump's policies are forcing reconsideration of trade structures (New York Times).

Reason #3. Confusing Our True Enemies

The imposition of tariffs not only pressures allies but also sends a message to adversaries like China. As Time explains, "while Canada and Mexico were given a temporary reprieve, China remains firmly in the crosshairs of Trump's economic policies" (Time). The unpredictability of U.S. trade actions creates uncertainty in global markets, weakening competitors like China, who thrive on stable long-term planning.

Reason #4. Fulfilling Trump's Campaign Promises

From the beginning of his political career, Trump has emphasized bringing jobs back to the U.S. and reducing reliance on foreign manufacturing. The Council on Foreign Relations notes that "tariffs align with Trump's broader economic vision of protectionism and self-sufficiency" (CFR). By implementing tariffs, Trump follows through on campaign pledges, reinforcing trust among his base.

Reason #5. Demonstrating U.S. Strength and Willpower

Tariffs are not merely economic tools; they are statements of national strength. The BBC highlights that "Trump's aggressive trade stance showcases a U.S. unwilling to bow to global economic pressures" (BBC). This move reassures both allies and domestic supporters that America is prioritizing its own interests over international appeasement.

Reason #6. Finding New Monetary Sources

Tariffs generate revenue for the U.S. government, which can be reinvested into infrastructure, defense, and domestic industries. According to Al Jazeera, "tariffs on China alone are expected to generate billions in additional federal revenue" (Al Jazeera).

Reason #7. Reducing Dependency on Foreign Goods

Long-term economic security relies on domestic production. EV Magazine reports that "industries forced to compete without cheap imports will reinvest in American manufacturing capabilities" (EV Magazine).

Reason #8. Encouraging Domestic Investment and Job Growth

With higher tariffs discouraging reliance on foreign imports, domestic companies have greater incentives to invest in U.S. manufacturing. Peterson Institute for International Economics points out that "historically, tariff measures have led to increased local investment in key industries" (PIIE).

Reason #9. Preventing Trade Deficits and Strengthening the Dollar

Reducing reliance on imports can help balance trade deficits. CBS News highlights that "tariffs have the potential to reduce reliance on cheap imports, ultimately improving America's trade deficit and strengthening the U.S. dollar" (CBS News).

Reason #10. Securing Key Supply Chains for National Security

By reducing dependence on foreign suppliers, the U.S. enhances its economic resilience. George W. Bush Presidential Center notes that "key industries such as defense, technology, and pharmaceuticals benefit from domestic sourcing rather than relying on geopolitical adversaries" (Bush Center).

Past Chaos as a Strategy: Trump’s History of Unconventional Tactics

Throughout his career, Trump has used chaos to drive policy. Whether threatening to withdraw from NATO or imposing travel bans, his tactics often lead to unexpected but effective results. CBS News notes that "Trump’s erratic methods have historically resulted in surprising diplomatic and economic wins" (CBS News).

Future Areas of Strategic Disruption

Beyond tariffs, Trump could apply similar strategies to:

  • Immigration laws

  • Military alliances

  • Technology sanctions

  • Foreign aid agreements

  • Energy independence policies

What Small Businesses Should Do in the Wake of These Tariffs

For small businesses, the key is to adopt a "wait and see" approach rather than making drastic changes based on short-term tariff effects. Instead of assuming a full-scale trade war, businesses should consider the following:

  • Diversifying Supply Chains: Finding alternative domestic suppliers to reduce reliance on affected imports.

  • Strategic Pricing Adjustments: Preparing for potential price fluctuations by adjusting margins accordingly.

  • Government Incentives: Taking advantage of any federal assistance programs aimed at boosting local production.

Patriotic and American-based economic sources suggest that while tariffs can be disruptive, they are unlikely to lead to a full-scale economic catastrophe. Instead, they may simply serve as a mechanism for renegotiation and domestic reinvestment.

Conclusion

While tariffs may seem disruptive on the surface, a deeper analysis reveals that they serve multiple strategic purposes. From reinforcing Trump's campaign promises to confusing adversaries and negotiating better trade deals, these tariffs exemplify a calculated approach to global economic dominance.

Bibliography

  • CBS News. "What Are Tariffs? Here's Everything You Need to Know About the Import Duties." February 1, 2025.

  • Peterson Institute for International Economics. "Can Tariffs Be a Good Thing?" November 15, 2024.

  • University of Virginia News. "Q&A: What Are Tariffs and How Will They Affect Us?" February 3, 2025.

  • EV Magazine. "The Trump Tariffs: Pros, Cons & Global Impact." November 28, 2024.

  • BBC News. "Trump Imposes Tariffs on Mexico, Canada, and China." February 1, 2025.

  • NBC News. "How Tariffs Work and What They Mean for You." February 2, 2025.

  • George W. Bush Presidential Center. "Tariffs Are Great – If You Like Raising Prices, Undermining Jobs, and Inhibiting Innovation." Fall 2018.

  • The New York Times. "Trump Imposes Steep Tariffs on Mexico, Canada, and China." February 2, 2025.

  • Time. "What Are Tariffs and Why Is Trump in Favor of Them?" February 2, 2025.

  • Council on Foreign Relations. "What Are Tariffs?"

  • Al Jazeera. "Trump Imposes Tariffs on Mexico, Canada and China." February 2, 2025.

  • National Post. "Donald Trump Imposes Tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China, Sparking Trade Tensions." February 2, 2025.

  • NBC News. "Live Updates: Trump Imposes Tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China." February 2, 2025.

  • BBC News. "Trump Imposes Tariffs on Mexico, Canada, and China." February 2, 2025.