Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick sparked outrage on Tuesday by defending President Trump’s tariff policies, even if they push the U.S. economy into a recession. Many Americans, already struggling with financial uncertainty, are now scared and angry over the potential consequences of these trade measures.
During an interview with CBS News, reporter Nancy Cordes directly questioned Lutnick about whether these tariffs would still be “worth it” if they triggered an economic downturn, even a temporary one.
“These policies are the most important thing America has ever had,” Lutnick insisted.
Cordes pushed further, asking, “So it is worth it?”
Without hesitation, Lutnick doubled down: “It is worth it.”
However, he quickly shifted blame away from the administration, saying, “The only reason there could possibly be a recession is because of the Biden nonsense that we had to live with.”
Lutnick, a staunch supporter of Trump’s trade strategy, has repeatedly dismissed concerns about a looming economic slowdown. Over the weekend, he assured Americans they should “absolutely not” worry about a possible recession. But many people feel differently. With rising costs of everyday goods and an already fragile economy, Trump’s tariff policies are fueling fear and frustration across the country.
Critics argue that these economic policies prioritize political battles over the well-being of everyday Americans. Small business owners, farmers, and working families—many of whom have already felt the impact of previous trade wars—are left wondering how much more financial strain they can endure.
As uncertainty grows, the backlash against Trump’s approach intensifies, with many Americans expressing deep concern that his policies could push the country into an avoidable economic crisis.