US Vice President Critiques Trump’s Tariff Policies
In Washington, Vice President Mike Pence has openly criticized the Trump administration’s tariff policies, suggesting that a potential shortage might prompt Americans to seek a different approach from the government.
During a Primetime interview on CNN, Pence touched on various issues, including his disapproval of Trump’s decision to pardon many involved in the January 6, 2021, Capitol insurrection.
In Trump’s second term, he introduced extensive tariffs affecting nearly all U.S. trading partners, arguing that some nations engage in “unfair” practices and that a trade balance is necessary.
Although Pence served as Trump’s vice president, he has now distanced himself from the former president, particularly regarding allegations about the integrity of the 2020 election.
Pence expressed concerns over Trump’s tariff policies, describing them as a potentially new industrial approach that could lead to inflation, negatively impact consumers, and ultimately damage the U.S. economy.
On the topic of the Russia-Ukraine war, Pence appears to oppose Trump’s position, stating that Russian President Vladimir Putin operates solely through strength.
“If the last three years teach us anything, it’s that Vladimir Putin doesn’t want peace. He wants Ukraine,” he remarked.
While the Trump administration has been working to facilitate a ceasefire, there are reports that officials feel the talks with Moscow could soon yield no tangible outcomes.
Pence also revealed his disappointment regarding Trump’s pardons of those who stormed the Capitol, stating, “I was extremely disappointed to see President Trump forgiving people that day, engaged in violence against law enforcement officials.”
He noted that while the president has the constitutional authority to grant pardons, he believed that decision sent the wrong message in that moment.
Supporters of Trump reportedly view Pence’s acknowledgment of Biden’s victory as a betrayal, evident in chants such as “Hang Mike Pence!” that have surfaced at Republican rallies.
Nevertheless, Pence mentioned that he remains proud of the achievements of the Trump-Pence administration, adding, “We had no mutual words between us until the last fateful day.”
