This Ezra Klein Show episode interviews Kimberly Clausing, an economist, about the economic impact of President Trump's tariffs. The interview begins with a basic explanation of tariffs and their effects, then delves into the costs to American families and the contradictions in Trump's justifications for them. Clausing argues that the tariffs are not only economically damaging but also serve as tools for political favoritism and obfuscation, shifting the tax burden onto the poor and middle class. She highlights the cascading effect of tariffs on integrated North American supply chains, particularly in the auto industry, and the detrimental impact of uncertainty on investment and economic growth. Clausing concludes by recommending three books and emphasizing that the problems the tariffs aim to solve are better addressed through progressive tax policies and investments in education and infrastructure, rather than trade restrictions.
