Biden's Commerce Secretary Talks About Trump's Economy

In a recent appearance on CNBC’s “Squawk on the Street,” Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo addressed criticisms regarding Vice President Kamala Harris’ economic proposals, which some analysts claim could increase the federal deficit by $1.7 trillion. Raimondo countered these claims by highlighting the significant deficit increase during former President Donald Trump’s administration, asserting that it occurred despite a thriving economy. Raimondo emphasized that Trump's tax cuts were reckless and failed to enhance productivity or economic growth, leading to a substantial deficit increase. She expressed disbelief that the Republican Party would criticize Democrats for fiscal irresponsibility, given the historical context of Trump's fiscal policies. “Every business owner... knows, in good times, that’s when you want to save and bring down the deficit,” she stated, underscoring the importance of responsible fiscal management. The Commerce Secretary also pointed out that under Trump, manufacturing jobs declined, further questioning the effectiveness of his economic strategies. Raimondo reassured viewers that the Biden administration, along with Harris, is committed to making responsible investments in infrastructure and job training while ensuring that these initiatives do not exacerbate the deficit. In conclusion, Raimondo's remarks reflect a broader Democratic narrative that seeks to differentiate their economic approach from that of the previous administration, positioning their plans as both necessary and fiscally responsible in the face of ongoing economic challenges.