Rep. Debbie Dingel (d-mich.) gave President Trump credibility CNN interview On Friday, in his massive tariff overhaul “in chasing countries like China,” however, House Democrats’ communications chairman panned the uncertainty Trump created in his “chaotic” development.
“I don’t think people would think the way he’s doing this is okay.” She told CNN Pamela Brown. “I think we need a customs strategy, but it needs to be appropriate – it’s confusing.”
Trump has been locked in an escalating trade war with Beijing, and announced 145% tariffs on most Chinese imports last week. China responded by imposing a 125% tariff on American goods and restricting the export of rare earth minerals.
Dingell said he believes the increase in tariffs makes sense and that 145% agreed to be appropriate.
“China’s communist government produces many of these products. They manipulate currency. They use slave labor,” she said. “It would be appropriate to chase after a country like China that doesn’t have a level playing field for the government we subsidize products.”
Dingell added that the administration should aim for a more comprehensive approach to avoid unexpected stock markets and business disruptions.
“I’m the one who said that if used strategically, tariffs are toolbox tools,” she said. “That’s what the tariff strategy lacks. It was a mess.”
