DeKalb GA News

Reagan-era economist Art Laffer recently expressed support for former U.S. President Donald Trump's tariff strategy during an appearance on the FOX Business Network. Laffer described Trump's approach to tariffs as a "win-win strategy," citing the benefits both domestically and internationally in the long term.

Laffer’s remarks provide a contrast to the typical reactions from much of the media on the subject. He argued that while the United States would primarily benefit, other countries could also gain advantages from the tariffs over time.

In an interview on "Varney & Co," Laffer explained, “The win-win strategy is Trump is just phenomenal at negotiating.” He concurred with Trump’s view that foreign countries currently impose higher tariffs and non-tariff barriers compared to the U.S. Laffer added, "But what he’s done now is he’s gotten them in a position where they’re going to lose their access to the U.S. market if they don’t redress these types of inequities that they’ve done."

He praised Trump’s negotiation skills, stating, "Trump is a master negotiator, and I’m watching these people calling into Trump — this is exactly what he does beautifully and wonderfully." Laffer expressed confidence that Trump could negotiate freer trade deals and significantly reduce tariffs if other countries also lowered theirs.

The interview drew a sharp divergence from praises by Democrats and critics within the Republican party. Critics have been skeptical of the strategy but, according to Laffer, have not proposed viable solutions. Meanwhile, Laffer reiterated that Trump is delivering on his campaign promises by prioritizing American interests.