Sen Peter Wetch Tariff Policy Outcomes

Senator Peter Welch is criticizing the economic impact of tariffs imposed by Donald Trump, arguing that the results have fallen short of stated goals.

Welch said the tariffs were intended to increase manufacturing jobs, reduce the overall trade deficit, and shrink China’s trade surplus with the United States. Instead, he claims manufacturing employment declined, and both the trade deficit and China’s surplus reached record levels.

The senator also argued that while the policy was framed as support for working Americans, he believes working families have felt the economic strain most directly.

Supporters of the tariffs, however, have argued they were necessary to rebalance trade relationships and strengthen domestic industries. The debate continues as lawmakers assess long-term economic impacts.