President Trump has recently been touting an inflated figure of $18 trillion, claiming it represents the revenue generated by tariffs, a figure that has been repeated across various public appearances. This number is not only factually incorrect but also logically impossible, as the federal government has collected significantly less in tariff revenue. The president seems to be conflating tariff revenue with private investment deals, further blurring the line between the government and the private sector, but even the White House’s own tracking shows a figure far less than the claimed $18 trillion. Ultimately, the origin of this figure remains unclear.
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Mexican lawmakers recently approved a package of tariffs, impacting numerous products, particularly those from China, with the levies set to take effect January 1, 2026. These tariffs, which can reach up to 50%, target goods such as metals, cars, and appliances and affect countries without free trade agreements with Mexico. This action occurs amid negotiations with the US over potential import taxes threatened by former President Donald Trump. China has expressed concerns, with a spokesperson from Beijing’s commerce ministry stating that the tariffs would “substantially harm the interests of trading partners.”
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The holiday season has presented unique challenges for retailers, with many experiencing increased costs and cautious consumer spending. Rising prices for imported goods, impacted by tariffs imposed on various products, including toys, electronics, and decorations, have forced businesses to adjust their strategies. Consequently, consumers have faced higher prices on popular holiday gifts, prompting some to scale back their purchases or seek out more affordable alternatives. Industry experts suggest exploring options like secondhand stores and domestically produced goods to navigate these economic pressures.
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During a Pennsylvania rally, President Trump defended his use of tariffs despite the resulting increase in prices, even suggesting Americans could cut back on toy purchases. The president, known for his lavish lifestyle and wealth, made these comments while touting his economic record. Critics, including several senators, quickly condemned the remarks as out of touch. The call for limiting purchases was perceived as inconsistent with his administration’s claims of economic improvement, with some senators directly criticizing the president.
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According to a new analysis by the Joint Economic Committee (JEC), the average US household has paid $1,200 in tariff costs over the past 10 months due to President Trump’s trade policies. This amount is derived from official US Treasury Department data on tariff revenue, and is expected to continue to rise. Democrats, including Senator Maggie Hassan, have criticized the tariffs, arguing they contradict Trump’s promise to lower costs for families. Furthermore, the JEC projects that if current tariff levels remain, families will pay $2,100 annually, compounding the financial strain felt by many Americans.
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During a speech in Mount Pocono, Pennsylvania, Donald Trump defended his tariff policies, despite growing concerns about rising costs of living. He reiterated his support for tariffs, claiming they generate revenue, while also acknowledging the impact on prices. However, evidence suggests a measurable upward pressure on consumer prices due to these tariffs, according to a Federal Reserve report. Despite this, Trump has rolled back certain tariffs, though consumer sentiment remains low, and some Democrats are criticizing his trade policies ahead of the upcoming midterm elections.
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Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum announced that Mexico plans to send more water to the United States, although not immediately, amidst a threat of increased tariffs by former U.S. President Donald Trump. Mexico is behind on water deliveries from the Rio Grande River due to drought and pipeline limitations, but Sheinbaum proposed a water delivery this month and another in the coming years. This is despite Trump’s claim that Mexico owes the U.S. water under a 1944 treaty, which has led to a previous threat of a 5% increase on tariffs on Mexican imports. Discussions are expected to continue in a virtual meeting with U.S. officials.
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President Trump indicated he may impose significant tariffs on Canadian fertilizer to boost domestic production, addressing rising costs for American farmers due to the ongoing trade war. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins stated the administration is working on plans to increase U.S. fertilizer production and lower prices. This follows concerns from both Canadian and U.S. farmers about higher fertilizer costs. In response, Trump announced a $12 billion aid package for farmers, aiming to offer financial support and help them lower food prices for American families.
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Former President Donald Trump has issued a demand to Mexico via Truth Social, urging the release of substantial water amounts to the United States due to treaty violations impacting U.S. agriculture, specifically in Texas. Trump stated that Mexico owes over 800,000 acre-feet of water from the past five years and requested 200,000 acre-feet be released by the end of the year. If Mexico fails to comply immediately, Trump has authorized documentation for a 5% tariff on Mexican goods. This is not the first time Trump has made this complaint, and comes as the Supreme Court is set to rule on his authority to implement tariffs without Congressional approval.
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Trump to Unveil $12 Billion Bailout for Farmers – the news has sparked a flurry of reactions, and the common thread appears to be a mix of frustration, cynicism, and a healthy dose of “I told you so.” The core issue, as many see it, is the potential for this bailout to be a direct consequence of policies that, in their view, were poorly conceived from the start. Namely, the tariffs, which some feel were the root cause of the farmers’ financial woes. The irony, as pointed out by several, is that the very people who might decry “socialism” are now potentially the recipients of a government handout, funded by taxpayers.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood