Pence Defends Free Trade While Acknowledging Tariffs Can Be Effective
Former Vice President Mike Pence weighed in on the ongoing debate over tariffs, stating in a post on X Friday that such measures can be useful when employed strategically. He noted that tariffs can serve as “a means to bring nations like China to the table.” However, he also emphasized the benefits of free trade, arguing that it “lowers the costs of goods and improves the quality of life for every American.”
Pence’s remarks come as former President Donald Trump has both imposed and later walked back tariffs on Canada and Mexico in recent days. The White House has announced plans to proceed with new reciprocal tariffs on imports starting in April, signaling an ongoing shift in trade policy.
This is not the first time Pence has distanced himself from Trump. Their relationship grew strained after Pence refused to intervene in the certification of the 2020 election results, despite pressure from Trump.
More recently, Pence opposed the nomination of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for Secretary of Health and Human Services. Both he and his conservative advocacy group, Advancing American Freedom, criticized Kennedy for inconsistent positions on abortion.
Pence has also taken a firm stance against Russian President Vladimir Putin, holding him accountable for initiating the war in Ukraine. He has urged Trump—who has previously spoken positively about his relationship with Putin—to take a stronger position against the Russian leader.
Despite these differences, Pence continues to highlight areas where he aligns with Trump’s policies. He has voiced strong support for many of the administration’s economic initiatives, including the tax cuts passed under the “Trump-Pence” administration.
While Pence’s comments reflect his independent stance on key issues, they also show his ongoing effort to balance past loyalties with his own political principles.