Ron Johnson warns about risks of Trump tariffs on businesses

In the United States, Republican Senator Ron Johnson of Wisconsin has shared his concerns regarding the newly imposed tariffs by the Trump administration, which were set to come into effect on April 5, 2018. During discussions with NPR's Michel Martin, Johnson acknowledged the complexities of trade issues and described the tariffs as bold moves that carry significant risks for various industries. He emphasized that while some businesses and manufacturers might benefit from these tariffs, many others, particularly those that import products not manufactured in the United States, could face substantial challenges. In an interview aired on PBS NewsHour, Senator Johnson elaborated on these challenges, stating that manufacturers reliant on imported products would encounter difficulties due to a lengthy process of bringing production back to the U.S. This, he noted, would likely necessitate ongoing discussions with President Trump regarding possible tariff exemptions to safeguard the survival of affected businesses. Johnson highlighted that businesses in his home state, especially those dependent on exports and imports, are worried about the tariffs' long-term impacts. Furthermore, Johnson responded to inquiries about assistance for businesses struggling under the tariff pressure, expressing skepticism towards the idea of subsidies as a viable solution. He pointed to the challenges in allocating subsidies fairly, although he acknowledged that past measures taken by Trump, such as financial assistance for farmers during earlier tariffs, could be indicative of potential future support for affected sectors. As the tariffs begin to take effect, the implications for U.S. businesses—both positive and negative—remain a critical topic of discussion. Overall, Senator Johnson's views reflect a tension within the Republican party regarding the balance between protectionist policies and the welfare of domestic manufacturers. While there is an acknowledgment of the potential benefits associated with the tariffs, there is also a strong concern for those businesses that might suffer, highlighting the complexities of trade policy decisions under the Trump administration.