Covering Trumps proposed tariffs? 4 things you need to know [Video]

Across-the-board tariffs, even against major U.S. trading partners, were a central theme of President Donald Trump’s 2024 election campaign. On Jan. 2o, after he was inaugurated for a second term, Trump announced he planned to impose 25% tariffs on goods from Canada and Mexico on Feb. 1.

On Jan. 21, he suggested a 10% tariff on goods from China, though he told Fox News on Jan. 23 that he would “rather not have to use it.” During his first term, Trump imposed tariffs on certain products, including washing machines, solar panels, aluminum and steel. The Biden administration kept many of those tariffs and increased others, including a 100% tariff on electric vehicles made in China.

Covering tariffs is complicated work. Trump has at various times suggested that the U.S. ought to use tariffs to raise revenue, retaliate against perceived unfair trade conditions and restrict imports in order to support domestic manufacturers.

To give journalists a strong …