The Guardian view on Donald Trump's tariffs: a spectacle of struggle and control | Editorial
Briefly

Donald Trump's approach to tariffs highlights his perception of politics as a leverage game, prioritizing dominance over truth and justice. He presents these taxes on foreign imports as a means to support US blue-collar workers, while the potential fallout for the UK could be dire — with GDP projections indicating serious declines should a 20% tariff be implemented. This strategy aligns with Trump's identity as a dealmaker, aiming to favor specific groups and interests, particularly benefiting his political allies and wealthy donors.
Donald Trump embodies Michel Foucault's notion that politics serves as a means of warfare, exemplified by his use of tariffs as tools for loyalty and dominance.
Trump's rationale for imposing tariffs is muddled; yet, it reflects his desire to structure society to benefit certain groups, emphasizing his role as a dealmaker.
The ramifications of a 20% tariff on imports could lead to substantial declines in UK GDP, while Trump views this as a negotiation tactic rather than a fiscal policy.
British policymakers are concerned about the economic impacts of tariffs; Trump, however, sees power without the need for objectivity, leveraging tariffs for political gain.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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