With the clock ticking on the 90-day pause in President Donald Trump's tariff and trade war, it's time for the president to answer some questions.
After all, when the president systematically uses economic nationalism in public discourse, he shapes people’s minds—regardless of whether his statements are intended for political negotiations or reflect deeply held beliefs. And people’s minds have consequences. Furthermore, even if economic nationalism is used primarily to pressure concessions from trading partners, the likelihood of reaping the intended benefits hinges on the veracity—or lack thereof—of the core arguments. If the terms of exchange do not produce beneficial outcomes, the conclusion can only be that the entire premise was bogus and that harmful political and economic consequences will ensue. Here are some questions requiring answers.
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