Pence group lashes out at Trump tariffs ahead of ‘Liberation Day’ event
Former Vice President Mike Pence’s policy advocacy organization, Advancing American Freedom (AAF), has taken a stand against President Donald Trump’s proposed tariffs, labeling them as a tax on American consumers and businesses. This rare opposition from the group, which was founded in 2021 based on the principles of Trump’s first term, comes ahead of Trump’s planned “Liberation Day” tariff announcement.
In a post on X on Wednesday, AAF’s general counsel Marc Wheat stated that the tariffs proposed by Trump are essentially a tax on American consumers and businesses. Wheat emphasized that Congress has a constitutional responsibility to reclaim its authority over taxation and suggested passing Sen. Mike Lee’s Article One Act, which would require Congress to approve national emergency declarations declared by the president within 30 days.
Trump is set to roll out his plan for reciprocal tariffs on Wednesday afternoon, dubbing it “Liberation Day.” The White House has been tight-lipped about the details of the tariff announcement, but White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt has hinted that it will aim to restore fairness to U.S. trading after years of disproportionate trade deals with other countries.
Leavitt highlighted the impact of the lack of reciprocity in trade deals on American industries and workforces, stating that the tariff plan will prioritize American workers and businesses. Trump and his administration believe that the tariffs will incentivize companies to establish operations on American soil to bypass the tariffs, ultimately creating job opportunities for American workers.
The White House’s push for reciprocal tariffs follows Trump’s executive orders in February imposing tariffs on goods imported from Canada and Mexico, citing national security concerns related to drug trafficking and illegal immigration. Canadian oil and energy exports were hit with a 10% tariff as part of these measures.
As Trump gears up for his “Liberation Day” tariff announcement, members of his Cabinet are expected to join him on April 2. The administration is optimistic that the tariff plan will bring wealth back to the country and level the playing field in international trade.
In conclusion, AAF’s opposition to Trump’s tariff plan sheds light on the complexities of trade policy and taxation. As the debate over tariffs continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how Congress and the American public will respond to these economic measures.
