I note that if the tariff on Mexican goods raises enough money to pay for and police the wall it won't provide much protection for American jobs. The imports will still be flowing. It is also not clear that Americans will pay the tariff The companies that are producing the goods might be making substantial profits on sales back to us, and so it might well make sense for them to drop their pre tariff prices down and absorb the tariff and earn just a modest profit rather than lose the sales altogether. Or if necessary to earn a modest profit, to cut the wages of their Mexican employees. It is also not at all clear that if we put a tariff on Mexican goods, Mexico will put a tariff on ours. The Mexican government might be willing to acknowledge that if they were in Trump's position and Mexico was running a substantial deficit with us they would probably do the same thing he is threatening to do. They might also realize and be willing to acknowledge that putting a big tariff on American goods will hurt their people by raising their cost of living. And also that retaliating will surely inspire Trump to retaliate as well and before they know it trade between the nations has been totally destroyed. They might well decide that it is better to let it go and live with it rather than make a fuss and hope in time that the US relents.
2
If Trump cannot get Congress to fund the wall, he has an easy solution: kick start the wall project with a few billion dollars of his own money, and then ask his friends at Goldman Sachs to let him tap into its multi-billion dollar blood funnel to pay for the rest. Add a couple of hundred million dollars more from Tillerson, McMahon, DeVoss, etc, there should be plenty left over for border guards, prisons, and lethal weapons.
I'm all for rebuilding our country's infrastructure and a happy to share in the cost of rebuilding. Trade agreements, tax reform, and Obamacare are fair game. But please don't ask taxpayers to pay for a useless wall just to please the President's oversized ego.
I'm all for rebuilding our country's infrastructure and a happy to share in the cost of rebuilding. Trade agreements, tax reform, and Obamacare are fair game. But please don't ask taxpayers to pay for a useless wall just to please the President's oversized ego.
9
This is just the most mortifyingly embarrassing amateurism. When will it ever end?
19
many nutjobs on this website, there are.
NAFTA?
GO CANADA GO! Will Trump be as rude to the USA's northern neighbor as he was to its southern neighbor? America buys way more stuff from Canada than it buys from Mexico. Without Canada and its people being friendly neighbors for the last 150 years, the U.S. economy would be a fraction of what it is.
Next week, I think Trump may seek to hug the handsome Justin Trudeau in front of the media - rather than being rude to him. But, you never know. Like everybody, we up north have never seen anything like Washington D.C. is now. And we know the USA better than anybody else on planet earth. Re Trade, the three "big" matters of Canada vs. USA dispute will be softwood lumber on the west coast - grain on the prairies - and eggs and other agricultural things in Ontario and Quebec. But, given that the two countries trade well over $1 billion per day over a very broad range of goods, I don't see those matters "ruining" the relationship. Go Canada Go!
GO CANADA GO! Will Trump be as rude to the USA's northern neighbor as he was to its southern neighbor? America buys way more stuff from Canada than it buys from Mexico. Without Canada and its people being friendly neighbors for the last 150 years, the U.S. economy would be a fraction of what it is.
Next week, I think Trump may seek to hug the handsome Justin Trudeau in front of the media - rather than being rude to him. But, you never know. Like everybody, we up north have never seen anything like Washington D.C. is now. And we know the USA better than anybody else on planet earth. Re Trade, the three "big" matters of Canada vs. USA dispute will be softwood lumber on the west coast - grain on the prairies - and eggs and other agricultural things in Ontario and Quebec. But, given that the two countries trade well over $1 billion per day over a very broad range of goods, I don't see those matters "ruining" the relationship. Go Canada Go!
4
Didn't Mr. Trump's parents ever send him to summer camp? He should remember 'Going on a Bear Hunt.'
You can't go through it.
You can't go under it.
You can't go over it.
You have to go around it.
There's always a way. Through it - surely somebody has bolt-cutters or a blow-torch. Over it - tree-top flyers. Under it - tunnels. Around it - vessels in the Gulf of Mexico or the Pacific Ocean. It's not like it's the third century B.C. Will he post archers every ten feet?
You can't go through it.
You can't go under it.
You can't go over it.
You have to go around it.
There's always a way. Through it - surely somebody has bolt-cutters or a blow-torch. Over it - tree-top flyers. Under it - tunnels. Around it - vessels in the Gulf of Mexico or the Pacific Ocean. It's not like it's the third century B.C. Will he post archers every ten feet?
9
President Pena Nieto:
The first one to walk away, wins.
Besides, Trump and the GOP are doing a heckuva job destroying themselves. When your enemy is doing that, don't interfere.
Signed, the American public.
The first one to walk away, wins.
Besides, Trump and the GOP are doing a heckuva job destroying themselves. When your enemy is doing that, don't interfere.
Signed, the American public.
17
One can write all the op-eds and opinions one wants. Trump, powered and geared up by Bannon, will, with unbridled fierceness, dip his feet in uncharted waters, before gauging the depth, as he only can. Nonetheless, the press and the authors will have to operate constantly, so their voices and writings are paid heed to.
Of course, the 4th estate will turn deaf ears to Steve Bannon's exhortations for keeping quiet. That does not, should not, and will not happen in America. This is not an autocracy. Press will come up with a cavalcade of questions, and the WH staff WILL answer them. They'd better.
The pens, and the mouths are the ''force majeur'' to stymie any unwanted threats to free press. If Trump and Steve can not confront them, they can run and hide, but will be found and dealt an appropriate measure of sternness. They had better believe it.
Finally, it is always challenging to dub what is right and what is wrong in his foreign policy meanderings. The dust-up with Pena Nieto seems as if it was staged by an amateur, and not by a POTUS. Obstinacy will have its price, eventually. Or so one thinks.
Of course, the 4th estate will turn deaf ears to Steve Bannon's exhortations for keeping quiet. That does not, should not, and will not happen in America. This is not an autocracy. Press will come up with a cavalcade of questions, and the WH staff WILL answer them. They'd better.
The pens, and the mouths are the ''force majeur'' to stymie any unwanted threats to free press. If Trump and Steve can not confront them, they can run and hide, but will be found and dealt an appropriate measure of sternness. They had better believe it.
Finally, it is always challenging to dub what is right and what is wrong in his foreign policy meanderings. The dust-up with Pena Nieto seems as if it was staged by an amateur, and not by a POTUS. Obstinacy will have its price, eventually. Or so one thinks.
5
I think the Republicans are just peachy with paying for this wall with tax dollars and raising the debt ceiling. It supports their normal agenda: chip away at Social Security, Medicare and education. Strategy: saddle the nation with debt, and use the debt as an excuse to cut everything the people actually WANT to fund with tax dollars.
13
Agree L. Meringue. But the bill for the wall is just small potatoes compared with the projected trillions they will run up the deficit by giving massive tax cuts to the 1%. Once that is in place, and the fantasy "trickle down" 5% economic growth does not materialize, the deficit will suddenly become a national emergency, with calls for gutting Medicare and Social Security to reduce it.
So the Republican strategy is to enact massive tax cuts for their puppet-masters, the 1%, and eventually pay for it by gutting the middle and working classes SS and Medicare.
So the Republican strategy is to enact massive tax cuts for their puppet-masters, the 1%, and eventually pay for it by gutting the middle and working classes SS and Medicare.
6
This is a really big comment. A HUUUGE comment. Everyone says they are impressed by the size of my comment.
5
Who will pay for "The Wall" is being discussed as if it would actually be built.
Are we really that naive to think that our government would do anything more than funding a feasibility study?
Are we really that naive to think that our government would do anything more than funding a feasibility study?
1
This is all so transparently stupid that it beggars description, let alone discussion. A fine example -- if one needed one -- or the "art of the deal." Begin by insulting the party across the table. As that escalates, blot your copybook and blame the other guy. When he picks up his documents and gets up to leave declare it an agreement to suspend negotiations. After he leaves look for someone else to fund the project and offer to franchise your name in return for a small equity share and management fees. Mobilize PR to declare victory.
7
He throws out threats to try and manipulate.
2
Kathryn,
I misread your comment as 'treats.' But, then I thought of my son-in-law's Boston terrier and I thought that would apply, also. Lol.
I misread your comment as 'treats.' But, then I thought of my son-in-law's Boston terrier and I thought that would apply, also. Lol.
3
For any semblance of truth do not, I repeat, do not listen to Talk Radio. They are the source of the deep divisions within the United States, and they are horrible.
DD
Manhattan
DD
Manhattan
12
Mexico should ask the Russians to pay for the wall. Allow them to build an air force base in Tijuana as compensation.
14
Clearly no one in Mexico is an investor in the Trump Organization. Now if only he released his tax returns could we be sure that Russia does not own Trump.
8
As PORFIRIO DÍAZ said: “Poor Mexico. So far from Good, so close to the USA.” It is hard to face Trump, the trumpism, the trumpists, the trimpers, the trumpellers, the trumpspicers, the trumpalternative facts, et all. My goodness... What a shame!!!
3
We are seeing that talk radio cannot govern. Talk yes, Govern No.
5
Orwell's Animal Farm characters have been parading in the White House:
orange = Napoleon
Spicer = Squealer
I'm paraphrasing Orwell: "Well, comrades, Our Hero First Class Napoleon only seemed to oppose the building of the windmill. In fact he was for it from the start, as it was his idea! And that, comrades, is called tactics.... tactics, I tell you."
Not a coincidence that Orwell's 1984 jumped on top of Amazon's most sold items.
Wonder when orange will pick himself a name to be called by.....
orange = Napoleon
Spicer = Squealer
I'm paraphrasing Orwell: "Well, comrades, Our Hero First Class Napoleon only seemed to oppose the building of the windmill. In fact he was for it from the start, as it was his idea! And that, comrades, is called tactics.... tactics, I tell you."
Not a coincidence that Orwell's 1984 jumped on top of Amazon's most sold items.
Wonder when orange will pick himself a name to be called by.....
6
Does anyone recall DT being proven as a bonafide titan of business, other than on television? Surely he understands international business and trade, right? Has his business acumen been validated by other known billion or small millionaires? What? No one with real money has vouched for him!! Wait a minute..what about his tax returns. Surely, they'll prove how brilliant he is. There ya go...the proof is in his tax returns, right? Let's ask him.
8
President Queeg knows that Mexico has a duplicate key and ate the strawberries.
5
Military officers who are trained in defending borders say that building and relying on a physical wall is crazy. But of course, this has nothing to do with actually defending the border. It's about appealing to the racism of simple-minded voters when you can no longer just blame everything on the black guy.
But there is one sense in which this is perfectly just. The people of the Red states will disproportionately pay the price for this. But then that's what they are used to.
But there is one sense in which this is perfectly just. The people of the Red states will disproportionately pay the price for this. But then that's what they are used to.
11
Trump has promised to bring back America jobs by raising tariffs on all imports by 20%. His American supporters who voted for him didn't realize the cost of this woud be paid off their own backs.
Ha Ha! The joke was on them.
Ha Ha! The joke was on them.
10
Mexico SHOULD pay for the wall...if only to keep Americans,fleeing Trump, from overwhelming that country!!
10
Would anyone conceive the idea of improving one’s backyard and unilaterally imposing the masonry bill upon your next-door neighbor, just because you feel like it? This is absurd and against all common sense. Otherwise sure to be perceived as a blatantly criminal act of coercion, not to say extortion.
12
Yes, we probably need to assess our corporate tax system and trade agreements so that they make the most sense for America's companies and citizens. But that the impetus for Trump doing so is to figure out how to fund the building of a giant wall is just crazy.
3
"I'm going to build a wall, and American consumers are going to pay for it through increased prices on imports!" might not have been such a popular slogan.
17
I think the phone call between Trump and Mexican president signal that negotiations are still on the table.
Maybe readers overreacted a bit much?!
Maybe readers overreacted a bit much?!
2
Every time Trump speaks, we hear, "The sky is falling!"
This is Trump's opening gambit, and they're behaving as though the wall has been built, and produce prices have spiked 20%.
This is Trump's opening gambit, and they're behaving as though the wall has been built, and produce prices have spiked 20%.
1
And maybe you are speculating a bit much Ed. The people of Mexico are outraged against being scapegoated by Trump, and were outraged with Pena Nieto for even receiving Trump during the campaign, doubly after Trump stabbed him in the back a few hours later with his speech along the border.
Pena Nieto won't survive politically if he comes anywhere near even hinting that Mexico is somehow going to chip in even a fraction of the cost for the wall. So he is not going to, period. And if he does, he's done and gone politically, along with anything he would have agreed to with Trump.
Given that, Trump is going to have to figure out a way to have Mexico pay against their will if he is going to adhere to one of his most fundamental campaign promises, that "Mexico is going to pay for the wall." And that is going to be a lot more difficult for him than swindling people out of their tuition money, or putting his companies in bankruptcy to avoid paying contractors for work they have completed.
Pena Nieto won't survive politically if he comes anywhere near even hinting that Mexico is somehow going to chip in even a fraction of the cost for the wall. So he is not going to, period. And if he does, he's done and gone politically, along with anything he would have agreed to with Trump.
Given that, Trump is going to have to figure out a way to have Mexico pay against their will if he is going to adhere to one of his most fundamental campaign promises, that "Mexico is going to pay for the wall." And that is going to be a lot more difficult for him than swindling people out of their tuition money, or putting his companies in bankruptcy to avoid paying contractors for work they have completed.
9
What Spicer and Trump apparently do not understand, is that while there are, indeed, many ways to extort money from Mexico, unless Mexico willingly agrees to pay for the wall - and they won't - every attempt at extortion will meet resistance and retaliation.
7
Trump would create an instant rise in inflation by increasing the cost of many products consumed by the average American.
7
What a shame, conservative values that always complain about raising taxes in any form are now advocating for one to raised for a specific country. Just not right.
8
when is Trump bringing HIS jobs back from Mexico? That would be never because even minimum wage would be way more than he pays now in eleven countries. Why do you think he moved his jobs overseas decades ago in the first place? He is only "concerned" about American jobs when it is not his
7
Why not call the Trump Administration The Gong Show?
5
I've always thought that when he has his hat pulled down over his eyes, sweaty and ranting and raving, he looks a lot like the "unhinged" version of Chuck Berris in the late-stages of the Gong Show.
5
Mr. Trump has had the luxury of making decisions on the fly without any lengthy preparation through most of his life, and because he could hire professionals to work through all the details and to provide him with worked through options he has been able to get away with it. Now he's in a job with so much complexity and uncertainty that operating on the fly is just a way to have unexpected outcomes resulting as often as expected outcomes his lack of planning and painstaking consideration of the consequences are going to continue to cause confusion.
5
Perhaps the headline should read "Tax Plan Sows Confused as Tensions With Mexico Soars".
3
"All bills for raising revenue shall originate in the house of representatives and the senate."
US Constitution, Article I, Section 7
US Constitution, Article I, Section 7
7
Globalization has helped strengthened bonds and made America richer than it ever was. The problem for the middle class has been the huge disparity in sharing the rewards. Trump is going to circle the wagons and give the 1% a massive tax break. Consumer purchases, largely affecting the poor and middle class will climb in cost. Kings living on the hill will continue to hoard their gold. The only difference will be that all those angry people will spend more for less.
9
If he is talking about a 20% tariff, that would violate both the NAFTA and the WTO treaties, leading to legal challenges and precipitating a trade war. As any economist will tell you, this would operate as a tax on U.S. consumers - so we would be paying for the wall not Mexico. This seems pure insanity. It also runs contrary to traditional Republican support for free trade and DJT's populist rhetoric. It makes no sense to pick a fight with Mexico, our ally and one of our most important trading partners. I am deeply concerned about this proposal.
13
Listen despite what the Times and its punditry might say, Trump is no fool. Think about this.
Mexico’s largest source of cash comes from Mexicans living in the United State. In effect, Mexico's most lucrative natural resource is the people who leave there and come here. Their “international remittances” constitute a massive transfer of wealth, an average of approximately $2 billion per month, from our country to their homeland. Trump is going to tax the two billion dollars in monthly remittances sent to Mexico to pay for his wall, and as another commenter has pointed out, "Dodd Frank and OFAC regulations makes identifying these funds very easy. This will also serve another purpose of making migrating to the USA less attractive."
Why should anyone think the Editorial Board is smarter than Trump. He has bloodied their noses whenever challenged, and they still can't understand how it happened...
Mexico’s largest source of cash comes from Mexicans living in the United State. In effect, Mexico's most lucrative natural resource is the people who leave there and come here. Their “international remittances” constitute a massive transfer of wealth, an average of approximately $2 billion per month, from our country to their homeland. Trump is going to tax the two billion dollars in monthly remittances sent to Mexico to pay for his wall, and as another commenter has pointed out, "Dodd Frank and OFAC regulations makes identifying these funds very easy. This will also serve another purpose of making migrating to the USA less attractive."
Why should anyone think the Editorial Board is smarter than Trump. He has bloodied their noses whenever challenged, and they still can't understand how it happened...
1
Marcus
$2 BILLION a month is $24 BILLION a year.
The GDP of Mexico is over $1 TRILLION, with exports of $400 BILLION.
The money you are talking about is chump change in the grand scheme of things.
How do you track every remittance?
Suppose I remit money to Canada, to be forwarded to Mexico? How do you follow that money trail?
Your argument is based on "fake news" and is impractical. Other than that, it is *PERFECT*.
$2 BILLION a month is $24 BILLION a year.
The GDP of Mexico is over $1 TRILLION, with exports of $400 BILLION.
The money you are talking about is chump change in the grand scheme of things.
How do you track every remittance?
Suppose I remit money to Canada, to be forwarded to Mexico? How do you follow that money trail?
Your argument is based on "fake news" and is impractical. Other than that, it is *PERFECT*.
10
A far bigger threat to the U.S. is posed by Russia hacking into U.S. computer systems, gaining power over individuals and our government by holding kompromat and blackmailing or threatening blackmail, than by illegal immigrants coming here in search of low-paying work (which the right-wing fat cats simply love).
5
Some company is going to tell Trump screw off and when that happens all the rest will follow. It is just like punching a bully once one does it no one is afraid anymore.
13
Except you have to be willing to possibly lose or wanting to fight them than acquiesce.
I had both when I've won and got my but kicked,...in dealing with them.
I had both when I've won and got my but kicked,...in dealing with them.
2
Walmart?
1
If the objective were truly to reduce illegal immigration from our southern border, there is a better way. The vast majority of immigrants come from Mexico for the jobs. They work hard, spend money, pay taxes (sales, property even if indirectly as rent), many pay income taxes, and many pay FICA from which they can never collect. If there were no jobs for them, they would not come. Laws exist to punish employers of illegals. They are hardly enforced, and when they are the penalties are not a deterrent. Why not crack down on employers using the laws already on the books? That would not cost $20 billion; it might cost a little more to step up enforcement. Some penalties could be increased. I guarantee that if a few CEOs spend some time in prison, illegal employment will drop. So why don't the GOP and Trump propose this? I'll tell you why. BECAUSE THE FAT CATS LOVE ILLEGAL WORKERS. Slave wages and deplorable working conditions add to their bottom line. Illegal labor undermines unions and drags all wages down. The GOP and their fat cat plutocrats and oligarchs do not have any intention of curbing illegal immigration nor do they desire it. That's why the silly fence will never be built, or if it is, will never be maintained. The way to reduce illegal immigration is already within the power of Congress and the (not my) President and they are not interested.
10
Mexico debacle is the beginning where American middle class will be paying higher prices for everyday good. Wait till Mr. Trump takes on China with the same "philosophy". The people he purports to help, who happen to be the same people who voted him to the office will surely find a job but the income won't be enough to offset the new prices of everyday goods.
America has started to implode .... can anyone see this in US?
America has started to implode .... can anyone see this in US?
7
Watch out GOP.. Americans like to buy their stuff cheap. Republican Congress, please don't destroy the economy while playing the rule of a Trump "Yes Man"!
6
A number of thoughts on this: 1. Many comments here say that Americans will just buy cheaper products from other providers. Problem is, as soon as this is implemented, American corporations will increase their prices and still be competitive, so we still lose. 2. Mexico will find other trade partners to export to. Oh, wait, they will probably enter into these trade agreements to IMPORT products from their new partners. There's another big win (NOT) for America. Also, now that the WH/Republicans are walking back the 20% import tax ("It's one of the options we're looking at...") Trump has made America look stupid to the world. Is this how our country's business is going to conducted by this bully? The international community will not play his game.
11
Mexico is the enemy. And Putin is our friend. Go figure.
18
I am not a supporter of Trump, nor did I vote for him. But the assumption that only globalization and free trade are consistent with civilization is ridiculous. Before 1994, which is not that long ago, there were tariffs on goods from Mexico, and China's products did not arrive with the advantages of Most Favored Nation/WTO status. And the world existed, there was even trade. No cataclysm. The idea that world economies can't co-exist with some protectionism does not hold up to scrutiny, as the work of Ha-Joon Chang, Dani Rodrick and others shows.
5
True but when barriers start going up on a systemic basis, you need to ask yourself whether the benefits are distributed evenly.
2
Import tax on the massive amount of food imported from Mexico while simultaneously expelling most of the people who harvest ouir food domestically- sounds like a great plan.
11
I grew up in California have never heard anyone complain about undocumented Mexicans or any other immigrant. They had always been a part of life, fit in, and contributed to the economy. Even working around language barriers isn't a big issue. It has actually encouraged bilingual studies. Undocumented immigrants being a problem has simply been fueled by the power of suggestion, and people wanting to blame others for their stagnant wages and lack of opportunity. People would rather not address the real culprit of corporate greed because they seem too powerful to fight. This a wedge issue to gain votes. I’m all for securing the border to limit the influx of people, but we have to implement smart and humane ways of doing it.
8
Being a contrary investor in Stock Market. Here is my take,
80% of Mexico exports goes to Unites States. However 15% of US exports goes to Mexico. Trade War with Mexico will be bad for US Economy, while trade War with US will be worst for Mexico Economy. Wall Street vultures are already after Mexican currency which is already down by double digits after Trump Election. On political front, I am sure Trump numbers are already up in PA/MI/OH.
Mexico can pay for wall satisfying Trump. Mexico can charge money to US for co-operating on war on drugs. It is fact that Mexico do spend its law and order resources on war on drugs and it can charge that money to US. Mexico pay to US for the Wall and US pays to Mexico for co-operating on war or drugs.
Win-Win complex deal is quite possible if leadership of both the country sit across the table.
80% of Mexico exports goes to Unites States. However 15% of US exports goes to Mexico. Trade War with Mexico will be bad for US Economy, while trade War with US will be worst for Mexico Economy. Wall Street vultures are already after Mexican currency which is already down by double digits after Trump Election. On political front, I am sure Trump numbers are already up in PA/MI/OH.
Mexico can pay for wall satisfying Trump. Mexico can charge money to US for co-operating on war on drugs. It is fact that Mexico do spend its law and order resources on war on drugs and it can charge that money to US. Mexico pay to US for the Wall and US pays to Mexico for co-operating on war or drugs.
Win-Win complex deal is quite possible if leadership of both the country sit across the table.
1
Many comments, including a few of mine, are lamenting the preposterousness of this tax proposal. What I haven't seen discussed as much is what this proposal actually is--a big temper tantrum. He makes absurd promises during his campaign--Mexico is going to pay for a wall. He then is going to meet with Nieto and thinks he's going to schmooze and strong-arm him at the same time--his version of "negotiating". Nieto snubs him by canceling the meeting and repeating a very clear message--we aren't paying for this wall--and boom, the temper tantrum starts. How can I get even--and at the same time hoodwink people into thinking we're not paying for this wall--so clever! And of course, it's not working because most of us aren't that stupid. Keep it up Donald--you're really impressing the world.
8
"I can't hire you folks anymore; there's a huge Wall about 700miles South of here."
So a Wall would actually stop them from coming over and folks from hiring them?
Exactly how?
So a Wall would actually stop them from coming over and folks from hiring them?
Exactly how?
5
Everyone in this country knows that big business is in control, correct? Wal-Mart, with 482 Billion dollars in revenue is the largest company in the United States. Wal-Mart is also the largest employer in the U.S., with 1.300,000 'associates'.
Does ANYONE really think that Wal-Mart and the armies of lobbyists they 6 million dollars a year to bribe congressional members will let this happen? Or Amazon, which paid 8.6 million in lobbying fees in 2016 alone? There are many, many other groups like the US Chamber of Commerce, the Business Roundtable, etc. etc. that will not allow this to happen, as they get the large majority of their goods from China, Pakistan, Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, etc. etc.
This tax "against all imports' would effect ALL of the gasoline products we import from the Middle East, Canada, Venezuela ,and other places as well. So, look for your gas prices to spike much more than 20%, because oil companies adjust prices every day against their supplier costs.
This plan is no plan at all, and is not well thought out at all. It will have a 'snowball's chance in hell' at passing.
What Trump really should be doing is anything he can to increase American exports, which increases job growth within the United States.
Does ANYONE really think that Wal-Mart and the armies of lobbyists they 6 million dollars a year to bribe congressional members will let this happen? Or Amazon, which paid 8.6 million in lobbying fees in 2016 alone? There are many, many other groups like the US Chamber of Commerce, the Business Roundtable, etc. etc. that will not allow this to happen, as they get the large majority of their goods from China, Pakistan, Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, etc. etc.
This tax "against all imports' would effect ALL of the gasoline products we import from the Middle East, Canada, Venezuela ,and other places as well. So, look for your gas prices to spike much more than 20%, because oil companies adjust prices every day against their supplier costs.
This plan is no plan at all, and is not well thought out at all. It will have a 'snowball's chance in hell' at passing.
What Trump really should be doing is anything he can to increase American exports, which increases job growth within the United States.
8
The USA imports about $583.6 billion from Mexico, however the USA wants to kill NAFTA and pulled out of the TPP. If Mexico stays on with the TPP and finds other countries to export $583.6 billion to export to, who will be the biggest loser? The Mexican peso will raise and inflation will probably strike the USA in double digits. Look at Venezuela a country that is falling apart because of the tariffs the government imposed. This president thinks that he can bully countries, WRONG!!
7
Trump wants illegal immigrants out of the country, but a wall will keep them here. Does he assume self deportation prior to the final phase of construction?
It would be nice to hear or read the rest of the plan (if it exists).
It would be nice to hear or read the rest of the plan (if it exists).
3
While the tax may trigger a recession in the US it may cause a catastrophic economic collapse in Mexico.
All we need is tens of millions of hungry Mexicans stampeding into the US. By the time the wall is build and assuming it is effective it will trap tens of millions of undocumented Mexicans or "illegals" in the US!
It is a law of economics. To stop smuggling requires eliminating demand. This means investing and developing the Mexican economy and encouraging a civil society with human rights and environmental protection. Economically a prosperous Mexico can only benefit prosperity in the US and it is the only sure fire way to stop the influx of Mexicans into the US.
All we need is tens of millions of hungry Mexicans stampeding into the US. By the time the wall is build and assuming it is effective it will trap tens of millions of undocumented Mexicans or "illegals" in the US!
It is a law of economics. To stop smuggling requires eliminating demand. This means investing and developing the Mexican economy and encouraging a civil society with human rights and environmental protection. Economically a prosperous Mexico can only benefit prosperity in the US and it is the only sure fire way to stop the influx of Mexicans into the US.
5
Trump is a real estate guy, a promoter, a borrower, a buyer known to stiff vendors to make them settle for pennies on the dollar... but what he knows about the global economy is nothing. He is ignorant of all the whack-a-mole repercussions that result from bullying threats such as imposing a border tax on imports without concern for what it will cost American consumers. It's starting to look like a lot of Trump supporters (whose demographics suggest they're not all that educated about their own dependence on a healthy global economy) are going to be disillusioned and sorely pressed when their visionary leader raises the cost of everything they depend on just to stay alive.
12
To answer the question posed yesterday: "Imposing a tariff on Mexico would mean pulling out of Nafta, a move that would severely disrupt the flow of parts and goods across North America and stall production in factories in the United States and Canada. It also could lead to shortages of fresh vegetables and fruits in American grocery stores and drive up the cost of many other consumer goods from Mexico. Mexico’s economy, which is hugely dependent on American trade, would be devastated. " editorial , NYT today
3
I think that the time time has come when all the countries of the world unite to put and embargo on the USA. So that Mr. Trump (not my president) learns a bit diplomatic courtesy and common sense relate to world affairs. The wall is an American idea not Mexican...Can you imagine building a house and then you tell your neighbor that now he has to pay for it, there is something disturbing about it. You neighbor might think that you have lost your mind or that maybe you are doing cocaine and that you are hook on drugs. Who knows what these people are thinking this is unbelievable.
9
"Can you imagine building a house and then you tell your neighbor that now he has to pay for it, there is something disturbing about it."
Not if your "neighbor" has been sending all his relatives to take up residency in that house without asking whether it was okay to bust the doors down to get in and stay...
Not if your "neighbor" has been sending all his relatives to take up residency in that house without asking whether it was okay to bust the doors down to get in and stay...
3
And you think a wall would resolve this purported issue? People do take planes these days - even Mexicans. This is a colossal waste of money and a prime example of ignorant shortsightedness. What is the endgame here?
5
Illegals come in by the thousands on domestic airline flights? That is indeed breaking news...
2
So this crazy 20% tariff idea was cooked up by Republicans, not Trump? Pure genius NOT. The U.S. exports heavily subsidized corn to Mexico, so that Mexican farmers can no longer sell their own. When Mexico retaliates with a 20% tariff on U.S. corn how are the GOP congressmen going to explain it to their corn-growing constituents back home? Or will the U.S. subsidize our corn with even more U.S. tax dollars, making the U.S. pay even more for the silly fence... and I'm getting way ahead of Trump's ability (and that of his fans) to connect dots so I'll stop here.
6
Trump's entire political gambit is to "sow confusion." The opposition, be it Democrats, progressives, whoever, need to realize that they are being distracted by a master manipulator, and keep their focus on effective opposition to the big policy items (climate change, health care, etc.), as well as organizing and mobilizing for 2018 and 2020.
And, btw, Trump already has his sights on 2020. A few days before he was inaugurated his lawyers filed for a copyright on a 2020 re-election slogan: "Keep America Great!"
And, btw, Trump already has his sights on 2020. A few days before he was inaugurated his lawyers filed for a copyright on a 2020 re-election slogan: "Keep America Great!"
4
Trump won't last that long. He likes campaigning but he will quickly tire of having to pretend to actually govern, either that or he will melt down and be removed.
3
Trump will be turning 71. All that anger can't be good for the heart.
5
Let's hope so DR. But as they say, better to hope for the best while preparing for the worst...
3
Who cares? Trump can't just sign a wall into existence with an executive order. The reality is far more complicated. The proposal will just get bogged down in bureaucracy and waste the time of Trump and the GOP congress, which is more than okay with me.
Even if they do eventually build the wall, it won't change anything except the national debt.
Even if they do eventually build the wall, it won't change anything except the national debt.
9
I suggest president Pena Nieto should view this as a used car transaction, since Trump modus operandi most closely resembles that of a deplorable used car salesman (no offense to the decent ones out there). Nieto does not want or need the lemony piece of junk Trump is trying to make him pay for. Therefore Nieto has the upper hand, and can do whatever he wants. The first one who walks away, wins.
8
I read all these completely sane comments from readers, and I agree with everything they are writing. But what would really be a beacon of hope is if someone who voted for Trump wrote that they too think this idea of a wall, and the repercussions is illogical and idiotic. Because otherwise we are all just venting to the same people to didn't want him in the first place. Its the Trump voters, the ones who have the sway to vote the congress, the senate and eventually him out office that we need to hear from, if they are indeed outraged like the rest of us.
3
Are you kidding, this Wall is the new and improved Wheel to them. Which is why they also approve a new law to make ladders and tunnels under the wall even more Super Duper Huuuggee Illegal:):)
2
You all appear as off base as you were when you insisted he couldn't win.
1
Every one sounds including the author apocalypse to take place by building the wall. I am not a Trump supporter but Mexico to pay for the wall is feasible. Either they pay the import taxes and keep the price same or the companies take their business elsewere. So many African countries are waiting to be integrated to the global economy.
If it is illegal to cross the border I dont see anything wrong. Thats the reason it is "illegal". if not whay have a border or when will the "illegal" is going to stop. If the borders or open it will probaly be never, then make Mexico as the 51st state.
If it is illegal to cross the border I dont see anything wrong. Thats the reason it is "illegal". if not whay have a border or when will the "illegal" is going to stop. If the borders or open it will probaly be never, then make Mexico as the 51st state.
3
Mexico is not a wealthy country. Where will Mexico get $20 billion to pay for a wall? And why would they? They don't need a wall. There is absolutely no benefit to Mexico to build a wall. Once I had a cat, on a street where dozens of cats lived, and a cranky old neighbor who didn't like cats in her yard (she preferred to attract nesting robins, and I see her point, but one cannot control a neighborhood full of cats). Since I lived next door she thought she could control me. She tried to make me erect a cat-proof barrier on top of my fence, which would have extended a huge wire grid into my yard, presumably to keep my cat in despite holes under the fence and open gates and so on, and of course I would have to pay for this ugly thing. Guess how that turned out! And even if I'd cowed to her and put up the damn thing, the other neighborhood cats were still coming into her yard!
2
Which person or company do you envision saying, "I'm not going to hire you (with those less rights, much cheaper wages, no taxes,..) because there's a Wall about 575miles South of here."
2
Quite reasonable reaponse. In short supply here. When it comes to Trump, always the sky is falling.
A simple solution:
before he builds a wall or imposes a 20% tariff on our goods, Trump should be forced to divest from all of his businesses, liquidating all of his properties and investments. Then, using that money, he should be forced to build stores named "America First", built right next to every single Wal-mart in America, where he can stock it with only U.S. made goods, which will cost 10%, 20%, 30%, 40% more than the same goods in the Wal-mart next door. The stores will not be as well stocked as the Wal-marts since there are many goods that are no longer made in the U.S. The stores will not have fresh fruits and vegetables in the winter months while the Wal-marts will.
Let's see how long his stores remain open. He can use the proceeds from those stores to build his wall.
Oh, and every Trump voter should be forced to shop only in his stores. You broke it, you bought it, MAGA.
before he builds a wall or imposes a 20% tariff on our goods, Trump should be forced to divest from all of his businesses, liquidating all of his properties and investments. Then, using that money, he should be forced to build stores named "America First", built right next to every single Wal-mart in America, where he can stock it with only U.S. made goods, which will cost 10%, 20%, 30%, 40% more than the same goods in the Wal-mart next door. The stores will not be as well stocked as the Wal-marts since there are many goods that are no longer made in the U.S. The stores will not have fresh fruits and vegetables in the winter months while the Wal-marts will.
Let's see how long his stores remain open. He can use the proceeds from those stores to build his wall.
Oh, and every Trump voter should be forced to shop only in his stores. You broke it, you bought it, MAGA.
5
Forget the darn wall. Nevertheless, we need tax reform that encourages investment in productive means in the U.S. A strong dollar and boarder adjustment taxation is a good thing in the long run. Consumers don't need more cheap garbage. Maybe if East Coast "elites" didn't pay so much for housing ( monopoly money) they would not be so concerned bout paying 4 bucks more for jeans. Low interest rates are a salve for a deeper wound. Wake up. The rest of the country can't pay for the cheap money and bad practices of decades.
2
Sounds like the way Trump made his fortune. Squeeze the little guy who dares to do business with you until he's exhausted and broke or dead, similar to the a leach sucks the blood out of a host.
9
Oh, this is precious. We make the rest of the world pay for our border wall with a 20 percent import tariff. Next the EU decides, what better way to pay for the absorption of the thousands of Syrian refugees that we refuse to allow to come over here than with a 20 percent tariff on all goods imported from the US? And Canada is looking for funds to accommodate Americans fleeing the Trump regime and glomming onto their health system, so...
4
Might be wrong, but it wouldn't surprise me if Mexico decides to take their business with China, Russia, Middle East or Europe instead of the U.S.
1
Rep. Brady sounds like he's hearing what he wants to hear. What is coming from Trump and his minions is an incoherent jumble of ramblings that all seem to come down to American consumers getting slammed in the bnk accounts, and the Mexicans not paying for Trump's useless wall. Apparently, Trump hasn't heard of ladders, tunnels, airplanes and boats, all of which can be used to defeat a wall along the Mexican border with the U.S. Trump needs to put down his phone, delete his Twitter account, and start learning something about being a President. His unfitness for the job has always been apparent to any objective observer, but now that he's actually in the job, his presence in it poses an extreme danger to this country on a variety of fronts.
1
Out of touch elitist billionaire sticks it to the American consumer to support a fraudulent national security claim.
7
The liberal/progressive elite is getting dizzy just watching all the promise-keeping going on in Washington. Out here in flyover country, we joyfully watch the angst. The links in the chains of liberal oppression are being broken one by one.
1
Flyover country? More like combover country.
Whether metaphorical or literal in the case of the combover-in-chief, they're both bald and nakedly barren in the clear light of day. Empty promises are just that. It's the 21st century. Time to wake up.
Whether metaphorical or literal in the case of the combover-in-chief, they're both bald and nakedly barren in the clear light of day. Empty promises are just that. It's the 21st century. Time to wake up.
2
All the other promises have been broken already. The "wall" (it's a fence) is a huge phallic symbol, a tangible thing even the least sophisticated can see and wrap their minds around. It appeals to racism and xenophobia, which is what got Trump elected (albeit with a huge popular vote loss). As long as he blabbers about the "wall" (it's a fence) his deplorable fans will be stoked, and they won't notice all his other broken promises, and the way he and the GOP are making their lives even more difficult. It doesn't take a genius to figure this out.
1
I wonder how joyful you will feel when you're drinking tainted water, breathing dirty air and don't have health care. Let's see how joyful you are during the next recession.
2
The billions paid by blank check to US companies to built roads and bridges in Afghanistan, then destroyed quickly by the Taliban, makes the cost of this Mexican border thing equal to a lost penny.
1
Building a border wall is the lamest idea I've ever heard of. Reform our immigration policy and return to guest passes for seasonal agricultural workers. Shame on the GOP administration for supporting such folly. Find another solution!
2
Make no mistake. If there is going to really be a wall built...Americans WILL pay for it. No matter the jargon...or misleading rhetoric used. Someone thinks that Americans are fools...That's with a capital F. Because they have thus-far...fallen for all other falsehoods...otherwise called..."Alternative Facts." But the real facts of the matter are: Inflated Egos run rampant, and the "I-can-do-it-all." attitude will surely lead down to the path of destruction. And we as Americans will surely pay! And that will be across the board. There will be blood on the dance floor! For sure.
3
Never mind all the smoke and all that noise, and domestic argument, the real problem is Putin did invade our sovereignty by Hacking into our elections, spread false news, launch an army of political technicians working on all Electorate college voters. do not fall for that retard trap do not go for race division, or fight with your neighbor, or family, stay focus. "The problem is a full dose of soviet poison injection to the USA complete with racial, gender, religion divide, etc, etc. The solution is, recall the Puppet administration and get a clean election.
1
The photograph accompanying this story is farcical. Please do not publish any more pictures of Trump attempting to look Presidential. They can only serve to burnish his image and "normalize" (to use an ugly word for an ugly thing) the idea of him as President. Trump clearly has no respect for the NYT or for the news media in general; therefore, in exchange for contempt, you shouldn't hand back carefully composed photographs. A Post-It note with a cartoon will do fine.
16
This man, usurping, illegitimate Donald, is a narcissistic sociopath. He is delusional, vindictive, mentally unstable, and dangerous. There have been other such leaders throughout history who have achieved high office and great power. It never turns out well. We must resist. Contact congress and press them to do the right thing. Be a squeaky wheel. We must rise and keep up the opposition while we still can, before the crackdown comes. With the press it already has.
7
How Republicans do it: Create a fear and capitalize on it. That's all they do.
12
While it's impossible to analyze a plan that doesn't exist, whatever they choose, it seems to me that the deciding factor is going to be who needs the other's goods more. Both the current trade deficit and the fact that we are the world's largest consumers (with many of our own businesses being ones that still rely heavily upon goods made in Mexico) seems to indicate that we are going to lose that fight. As a result, regardless of what types of new tax schemes are put in place, it appears inescapable that any shifting of the tax burden onto Mexico is nevertheless going to be ABSORBED disproportionately by the American consumers.
2
The 20% tax on imported goods is essentially a tax on US citizens, since they will pay the 20% one way or another. So this tax is essentially an increase in taxes on everyone. It would be interesting to see which economic groups would end up paying more of this tax than any other. In other words, what groups in the US buy the most imported goods?
2
Once again, the NYT has missed the real story. The Mexican government has a network of ovens that it uses to burn innocent civilians in collusion with drug cartels and Trump is heroically riding to their rescue and protecting American people from these monsters at the same time. The Mexican president canceled the meeting because Trump was attacking the drug cartels that support him. I kid you not, I read this from Breitbart. We cannot fight Trump by expecting his supporters to read the NYT for the real vs. alternative facts - his supporters do not read traditional reporting and live in an alternative reality that most of us don't even know about. We all need to get a Disqus account and start writing on the blogs of Breitbart (and other similar outlets). If thousands of people sign up and start writing there every day, we might actually make some progress. Let the flood of comments commence.
9
You might as well say you heard it from the tooth fairy because the amount of credibility is about the same.
1
Let's get real here. Do you really want to pay 20% more for the fruits and vegetables in your market basket? Those commodities flow across the border from Mexico when we can't produce them - it's a climate and growing season thing, which is not going to change. Poor people won't be able to afford healthful produce, richer people will pay through the nose. And all to placate our delusional "president." Ridiculous.
5
I just figured out how Trump is gonna get Mexican's to build the wall. Capture them coming across the border and put them to slave labor. But we have to provide the food and housing.
1
How many times have we heard DJT the politician say our negotiators are the worst in the world....that we are always taken advantage of....that the Chinese laugh at us after deals are cut? We are watching the man create leverage in a negotiation. Hardball. Having the American people scream out against it only gives the appearance of DJT having a weaker hand than he'd like.
1
If I understand correctly, the illegal migration of Mexicans has slowed or even reversed, and Mexico now serves as a route to the U.S. for Guatamalans, Hondurans and Salvadorans fleeing violence in their own countries.
And if I recall correctly, the U.S. played a major role in destabilizing these countries by overthrowing governments, supporting death squads and using them as staging areas for U.S.-funded, cross-border attacks. The fallout from such activities doesn't disappear for generations.
The wall is just silly grandstanding, another diversion from dealing with real issues.
And if I recall correctly, the U.S. played a major role in destabilizing these countries by overthrowing governments, supporting death squads and using them as staging areas for U.S.-funded, cross-border attacks. The fallout from such activities doesn't disappear for generations.
The wall is just silly grandstanding, another diversion from dealing with real issues.
3
A quick check of the website of the Office of the United States Trade Representative Mexico page (https://ustr.gov/countries-regions/americas/mexico) shows the top 5 categories of import products out of a $295 billion total in 2015 (the most recent year reported) were: vehicles ($74 billion), electrical machinery ($63 billion), machinery ($49 billion), mineral fuels ($14 billion), and optical and medical instruments ($12 billion).
Vehicles, representing 25% of imported goods, are produced by multinational, not Mexican, corporations, many based in the US. A 20% tax would either be passed onto consumers, or reduce corporate profits which would impact operations worldwide, including in the US. You will say "Good, then they'll build more cars in the US instead," which may or may not be true, but, even if they did that, the cost of these cars would be much higher because they would be forced to pay American workers far more. Average hourly manufacturing wages in Mexico are $2.00*.
The idea that Mexico will pay for his wall is the same snake oil the Trump has been selling all along.
*http://www.tradingeconomics.com/mexico/wages-in-manufacturing
Vehicles, representing 25% of imported goods, are produced by multinational, not Mexican, corporations, many based in the US. A 20% tax would either be passed onto consumers, or reduce corporate profits which would impact operations worldwide, including in the US. You will say "Good, then they'll build more cars in the US instead," which may or may not be true, but, even if they did that, the cost of these cars would be much higher because they would be forced to pay American workers far more. Average hourly manufacturing wages in Mexico are $2.00*.
The idea that Mexico will pay for his wall is the same snake oil the Trump has been selling all along.
*http://www.tradingeconomics.com/mexico/wages-in-manufacturing
4
Sickest. President. Ever.
DSM-5 criteria for narcissistic personality disorder include these features: (this obtained from MayoClinic.org)
Having an exaggerated sense of self-importance
Expecting to be recognized as superior even without achievements that warrant it
Exaggerating your achievements and talents
Being preoccupied with fantasies about success, power, brilliance, beauty or the perfect mate
Believing that you are superior and can only be understood by or associate with equally special people
Requiring constant admiration
Having a sense of entitlement
Expecting special favors and unquestioning compliance with your expectations
Taking advantage of others to get what you want
Having an inability or unwillingness to recognize the needs and feelings of others
Being envious of others and believing others envy you
Behaving in an arrogant or haughty manner
There is no brilliant, overarching Trumpian strategy which explains his behavior and actions, this is nothing more than the unhappy coincidence of mental illness colliding with an angry, disaffected, frightened, scapegoating populace. Amendement XXV offers the only hope.
DSM-5 criteria for narcissistic personality disorder include these features: (this obtained from MayoClinic.org)
Having an exaggerated sense of self-importance
Expecting to be recognized as superior even without achievements that warrant it
Exaggerating your achievements and talents
Being preoccupied with fantasies about success, power, brilliance, beauty or the perfect mate
Believing that you are superior and can only be understood by or associate with equally special people
Requiring constant admiration
Having a sense of entitlement
Expecting special favors and unquestioning compliance with your expectations
Taking advantage of others to get what you want
Having an inability or unwillingness to recognize the needs and feelings of others
Being envious of others and believing others envy you
Behaving in an arrogant or haughty manner
There is no brilliant, overarching Trumpian strategy which explains his behavior and actions, this is nothing more than the unhappy coincidence of mental illness colliding with an angry, disaffected, frightened, scapegoating populace. Amendement XXV offers the only hope.
9
Trump's approach seems appropriate. Years of finger-wagging at Mexico, while that country institutionalized the practice of illegally crossing our borders, has earned us nothing from Mexico but a sense of entitlement and contempt for our laws.
I'd love to envision a place where suddenly those not documented were disappeared into space. Trump's tax records count?
2
Cuckoo--just like everything President Nut-Case says or does. Unfortunately, the half-wit Republicans are so euphoric about being in charge, they are trotting out all the discredited supply side and tax cut notions they can, and embracing and enabling the no brain who got elected. We are doomed.
6
MTA paid $4.5 bln. to build 3 stations of 2nd Ave subway.
Lets Trump build a $10 bln wall and american taxpayers will pay for it.
Also, american companies will build the wall.
Most construction of 2nd ave subway was done by a Canadian company which also builds the garbage station on UES.
Its stupid to even ask Mexico to pay for it.
Lets Trump build a $10 bln wall and american taxpayers will pay for it.
Also, american companies will build the wall.
Most construction of 2nd ave subway was done by a Canadian company which also builds the garbage station on UES.
Its stupid to even ask Mexico to pay for it.
More coverage, please, of the FACT (not alternative) that Mexican immigration to the US has been in fairly steep decline. Even if it were practical, there is NO need for this ridiculous financial disaster.
5
We need a wall like we need another earthquake in Oklahoma. Spend the money on low-cost housing, on reducing the cost of higher education. Better yet, back down from a punk's campaign promise. Save face by calling for a feasibility study by someone like Rand Corporation, then quietly bury the study's report.
4
But why couldn't the companies selling goods in the US also reduce wages paid to Mexican workers as a way of offsetting the tax? Although it may not be technically the Mexican government paying the tax, the point would be that Mexico would be feeling the pain of not contributing to the cost of building the wall.
2
OMG---as millions of us have known for 35 or more years, trump has the intellectual depth of a soap dish. A complete and total fraud. And the deficiencies are in neon, for all the world to see. It wont be long before hes just ignored as delusional, lacking all credibility on every single utterance. And to his constituents, he never considered your concerns for an instant. You've been trumped, and dumped.
12
Mike,
I don't think you're being fair to soap dishes. Soap dishes serve a legitimate purpose. Soap dishes are often complement one's bathroom decor. Granted, both often become scummy. But, soap dishes can be rinsed clean. The other cannot.
I don't think you're being fair to soap dishes. Soap dishes serve a legitimate purpose. Soap dishes are often complement one's bathroom decor. Granted, both often become scummy. But, soap dishes can be rinsed clean. The other cannot.
2
"The White House press secretary, Sean Spicer, told reporters that the proceeds [of the 20 percent tax on all imported goods] would be used to pay for the border wall, estimated to cost as much as $20 billion." -- quote from article
So we -- the tax paying consumers -- will be paying for the Trump Mexican border wall!
This is a classic bait and switch. Trump and the Republicans have SWITCHED the $20 billion cost for the boarder wall ONTO AMERICAN TAXPAYERS.
So we -- the tax paying consumers -- will be paying for the Trump Mexican border wall!
This is a classic bait and switch. Trump and the Republicans have SWITCHED the $20 billion cost for the boarder wall ONTO AMERICAN TAXPAYERS.
8
"Mr. Peña Nieto angrily backed out of the White House meeting."
How foolish. What good purpose is served? Nieto has lost the opportunity to get Trump to reconsider his decision.
Contrast this with UK Prime Minister, Theresa May, who may not agree with all of Trump's proposals but has the good sense to ally herself with the world's leading democracy. It's easier to bring about change from within and it always helps to be able to call Washington and have your call answered.
How foolish. What good purpose is served? Nieto has lost the opportunity to get Trump to reconsider his decision.
Contrast this with UK Prime Minister, Theresa May, who may not agree with all of Trump's proposals but has the good sense to ally herself with the world's leading democracy. It's easier to bring about change from within and it always helps to be able to call Washington and have your call answered.
4
The word "democracy" does not honestly describe the deceitful time-wasting sham that the Electoral College makes of the election of the only public official who represents all of the US.
2
Wait until you see what a chump Trump is gonna make of May. Fawning all over her like she's his counterpart to this Brexit affair is NOT going to raise her profile in Europe. His compliments are her opponents' best words.
I watched four PMs explain to a courtroom what it was like to work with Rupert Murdoch. He gladly sets you up, and then he kicks you around until he can find another clown to drive the bus. That is going to be hilarious. Imagine Trump taking guff from FOX or the WSJ. He'll fall off the throne!
I watched four PMs explain to a courtroom what it was like to work with Rupert Murdoch. He gladly sets you up, and then he kicks you around until he can find another clown to drive the bus. That is going to be hilarious. Imagine Trump taking guff from FOX or the WSJ. He'll fall off the throne!
3
To reconsider what decision--to make Mexico pay for some wall they don't need? Why would they need to change that decision? He can't make them pay, short of threatening to start a war with them. This tax on Mexican goods is nonsense and will just get the US into trouble with the WTO in that is is so obviously meant to be a punishment. It's an act of aggression. A meeting with Theresa May is not analogous in any way.
1
i wish him the very best. a major stroke so we don't have to pay him any salary, health benefits, or pension.
look at the veins in his right hand in the picture at the desk. they are bulging from hypertension. i doubt he survives six months from the stress of the office and his very poor health.
look at the veins in his right hand in the picture at the desk. they are bulging from hypertension. i doubt he survives six months from the stress of the office and his very poor health.
4
I say let it all burn. If he resigns or steps down or gets hit by lightning, we get POTUS Pence and the entire GOP agenda, which they did not earn. Nobody voted for the GOP or Pence. The GOP slid into power on Trump's coattails, having offered up a broken agenda, their record of abject failure, and twenty-some other candidates so objectionable that Trump squeaked through. Make the GOP live with him. They own him. They are responsible for him and all the terror and suffering he will unleash. Let them try to manage it so their party doesn't go down in flames with him. If Trump is interrupted, his deplorable fans will only say "but everything is a disaster because Trump didn't get a chance." They need to see what his policies will do. A down side to all this is that they didn't learn from the disaster of the Bush administration; they are still voting for Republicans! I'm not sure if they'll learn from Trump ruining the country, either. One thing the Republicans are fantastic at is convincing ignorant people that somebody else is responsible for their problems; in this case it will be immigrants. That's all this is about anyway: shifting the blame for terrible GOP policies onto foreigners.
2
Insulting and threatening one of our best customers isn't leadership or putting America first. Besides the 6 million or so American jobs that rely on our trade with Mexico, Trump is either ignorant or lying by omission with his claims that "NAFTA is killing us on trade".
Is Trump even aware of "shared production"? 40% of content of U.S. imports from Mexico is produced in the U.S., 40 cents of every dollar spent on Mexican imports comes back here to the U.S.
Including shared production into the equation skews Trump's slanted trade deficit numbers, we actually are running a positive trade balance with Mexico.
I'd also remind Trump that America exports 20 BILLION worth of cars and parts to Mexico, o many American jobs rely on those exports alone.
Yesterday was dangerous, international trade agreements do not resemble the New York real estate market where apparently Trump found some success through bullying vendors and investors. Foreign leaders like Pena have their own political capital at risk, we saw this yesterday.
Is Trump even aware of "shared production"? 40% of content of U.S. imports from Mexico is produced in the U.S., 40 cents of every dollar spent on Mexican imports comes back here to the U.S.
Including shared production into the equation skews Trump's slanted trade deficit numbers, we actually are running a positive trade balance with Mexico.
I'd also remind Trump that America exports 20 BILLION worth of cars and parts to Mexico, o many American jobs rely on those exports alone.
Yesterday was dangerous, international trade agreements do not resemble the New York real estate market where apparently Trump found some success through bullying vendors and investors. Foreign leaders like Pena have their own political capital at risk, we saw this yesterday.
5
One week in and Donald the Menace has already started problems. Take away his slingshot (tweeter) and make him go to bed without dinner!
In fact, give him a good spanking first. (I am old fashioned).
I didn't spend decades raising my children not to act like spoiled brats, teaching them to be good citizens, just to have to endure a spoiled brat as President!
In fact, give him a good spanking first. (I am old fashioned).
I didn't spend decades raising my children not to act like spoiled brats, teaching them to be good citizens, just to have to endure a spoiled brat as President!
5
It is getting more clear by the moment that DJT and his sidekicks in the WH have less than no clue about how the U.S. economy really works. Seemingly inoculated against facts and figures, the "new boss" failed to consider what a tariff really means--a 20% cost pass along to consumers (that's us).
For a look at how the U.S. has earned the pole position as the #1 Importer in the world, see the following link which details with precision the extent of our imports from Mexico, China, Canada, Japan, Germany etc. Forget the avocados and the beer, my friends. It's the vehicles, the medical equipment, the electronics, machinery, and yes, even oil.
http://www.worldsrichestcountries.com/top_us_imports.html
For a look at how the U.S. has earned the pole position as the #1 Importer in the world, see the following link which details with precision the extent of our imports from Mexico, China, Canada, Japan, Germany etc. Forget the avocados and the beer, my friends. It's the vehicles, the medical equipment, the electronics, machinery, and yes, even oil.
http://www.worldsrichestcountries.com/top_us_imports.html
2
Factories closing !
Thousands of good jobs lost!
Hospitals and schools overloaded !
Immigrants flooding the streets !
Social safety net tattered !
Economic ruin for towns
The “horror” grows as the Rust Belt creeps into Mexico.
Pressure builds as Mexico desperately tries to export the problem to the US.
God must be laughing.
Thousands of good jobs lost!
Hospitals and schools overloaded !
Immigrants flooding the streets !
Social safety net tattered !
Economic ruin for towns
The “horror” grows as the Rust Belt creeps into Mexico.
Pressure builds as Mexico desperately tries to export the problem to the US.
God must be laughing.
1
I use to joke about how dumb working class white Americans were one day going to destroy the world; but I never thought I'd actually live to see it. Their beloved marmalade monster is well on his way to crushing us all.
13
Blame the GOP propaganda machine, the corporate MSM focused on ratings instead of their responsibility, and decades of the GOP undermining public education for the ignorance of the blue-collar working class. Ronald Reagan killing the Fairness Doctrine didn't help us, either.
2
I'm pretty sure security 101 is don't make enemies of neighbors that share a border with you, and don't underestimate their ability to work around the wall- and don't advertise to the world that we need one, because hey, it's so easy to cross!!!
3
Let's call the wall what it is - Trump's Folly.
6
Good-- hope it catches on.
1
"Trump's Folly"? As if that article could ever remain singular. It's more like we're becoming the United Follies of America. Make America Trump, Alas.
It's simple math, I think:
1(Trump is a construction mogul) +1(this project will cost $5-10 billion)= 2(Trump and his construction partners make a windfall)
I'm just guessing, but he said it himself: I'm very good at this. It's called construction.
1(Trump is a construction mogul) +1(this project will cost $5-10 billion)= 2(Trump and his construction partners make a windfall)
I'm just guessing, but he said it himself: I'm very good at this. It's called construction.
8
He's proven to be (extremely) short-sighted, Narcissistic, even consistently inconsistent,..but he's no Mongre,.., oh you said Mogul.
America (Mr. Trump) needs a new enemy to rev up the base, but Mexico is an odd candidate.
3
Donald Trump has been president for one week and it is already apparent that the man has no idea what he is doing other than giving himself more publicity with all the photo-ops: Trump in Air Force One, Trump in the Oval Office signing executive orders (many of which are either unconstitutional or illegal but he's too dim-witted to realize it). He needs to be removed from office quickly, before he can do anymore damage to this country. Donald Trump your fifteen minutes of fame are over. Your new reality show: Donald J. Trump goes to the White House and Plays President for a Week has been canceled due to fear that his play-acting is destroying the republic of the United States.
7
My dear Ms. Piepenburg: While one may not agree with the current political direction or leadership of our great country, President Trump and the Republicans are firmly ensconced at the helm. Belittling them with schoolyard talk is unbecoming not only to him but reflects badly upon you. You both deserve better and I am sure you are better than that. Dissension can be a powerful tool if grounded in well thought out positions and actions. Blowing off steam in a public forum makes a lot of people shake their head and wonder who really is the crazy one.
Another boom of vodoo economics, in reality Republicans don't have a clue on how to formulate taxes, for the last 40 years they have only been pushing for less corporation taxes, when someone arise with a dumb idea "the wall", "star wars", etc, they don't know how to create a sound base for that expense, but as always, we cannot expect that illiterates that are still guided by religion would be able to come with a sound idea on how to revive american manufacturing (maybe there is a way, assuring that wages aroun the world increase, but who will pay for those expensive goods...) and in the midway lowering corporate taxes to 15%...just vodoo economics
4
Surely Americans won't mind paying 20% more for all of their favorite imported products at Target et al if they know this new revenue stream for our government (sic) will be dedicated to building the Great Wall of Trump.
5
Trump, as suspected, doesn't know the first thing about economics. Mexico and U.S. consumers will pay for this. A poor country will get poorer and U.S. consumers will have to pay in increased prices for consumer goods. Farmers will lose access to migrant farm workers they need.
All for an outrageously expensive wall that we don't need and which will probably cause enormous environmental degradation as well. (The desert is not like the forests; it doesn't recover from impacts like this.
All this at a time when illegal immigration is at it's lowest point in decades.
All for an outrageously expensive wall that we don't need and which will probably cause enormous environmental degradation as well. (The desert is not like the forests; it doesn't recover from impacts like this.
All this at a time when illegal immigration is at it's lowest point in decades.
4
To borrow a page from the Trump playbook, I can now say that I think the President of Mexico is so much better, just "yuuugely" smarter, more honest, more competent and more ethical than the American president. Kudoes to Mr. Pena Nieto for standing up to this imbecilic bully.
5
Is there anything or anyone (in either party) that can stop this buffoon? This man is a DANGER to our country.
8
Donald J. Trump, the alleged graduate of Wharton, and I say alleged because it didn't happen; however, if he did, he'd know how tariffs work. Obviously, any graduates from an elite institution surely knows that the only people who pay tariffs are the consumers who purchase the products. Even more problematic for Mr. Trump, and I say that tongue in cheek, is that tariffs often led to trade wars and trade wars are bad for business, and even more costly for workers. The voters who voted for Trump, and believed that he is going to return "high paying," "good jobs," to the United States are now due for a rude shock. The consequences of this folly will not be full employment, but a downturn of the job numbers which will adversely affect Trump’s adoring masses. Remember, you don't have to fool all the people all the time, just some of the people some of the time. Then point to the “lying press” if things are not going your way, economically or politically. That’s not the prudent way to do business, but that’s the Steve Bannon way of silencing the Fourth Estate and designing a rudimentary authoritarian regime.
4
And of course, domestic competitors seeing the price of Mexican food imports rise 20% would never think of raising their prices? Right?
5
Who said that 'stupidity' is not limitless? Trump is a pretentious bully, seemingly willingly unaware of the harm he is causing. In spite of the evidence of impending doom, this demagogue continues to lie with 'gusto', and trying to justify his fiction of voting fraud by imposing his ill will to a cadre of cowards toeing the line, to investigate a nonexistent fraud...instead of apologizing for his huge lying misfortunes to satisfy his sick ego. Is there no justice, no voice of reason, so this "ugly american" can be ousted, and sent to pasture (graze) his pompous appetite for applause?
4
He doesn't look out for us at all, he's incapable of even giving a decent speech, he negotiates like a child and has a personality disorder. I didn't vote for that guy, fly-over America did and put him in as a middle finger like a giant monument to the plight of their white middle aged jobless friends. Now, he's not even unpredictable anymore. He will unilaterally drop the sanctions on Russia and will try to get the fuel prizes up, that will get him money from Exxon after his run, which we all hope will be very short. What a catastrophe.
4
There is a compromis. But Nieto would have to reclaim Mexico's border from the cartels. At present, Mexico essentially allows drug cartels free rein.
Nieto could negotiate an agreement with the U.S. on border security by which
Mexico would commit military resources to reduce border incursions. Metrics could be set that significantly reward Mexico.
why would Nieto not do this? Most likely because the cartels rewards to his coffers are enormous.
Nieto could negotiate an agreement with the U.S. on border security by which
Mexico would commit military resources to reduce border incursions. Metrics could be set that significantly reward Mexico.
why would Nieto not do this? Most likely because the cartels rewards to his coffers are enormous.
1
Most thoughtful people who have read about this already realize that it will be US citizens who will pay for the wall. Let us not forget the impact on our neighbors to the north who will likely also suffer increased prices from Mexican imports as any reduction in sales to the US will have to be offset by higher prices to other countries. I do hope that this is spurring some brainstorming among the Mexican people about how to be less reliant on the importation of poultry and other meat products from the US - which, and I'm no expert on this, primarily come from red states. Should the US continue to follow its leader, like lemmings off a cliff, we'll no doubt be looking to our neighbors to the South for a place to escape the wrath. (hyperbole?)
4
no big deal - denmark has been taxing imports for at least 40 years - at the point of entry and the point of sale. one of the positive outcomes for the danish citizens is - no health care or tuition bills.
i'll bet the farm that at least 80% of our citizens would make that trade off.
however - i wouldn't bet a dollar that half that many people would trade higher prices for a wall.
i'll bet the farm that at least 80% of our citizens would make that trade off.
however - i wouldn't bet a dollar that half that many people would trade higher prices for a wall.
2
When is The Trump going to pay some tax?
6
TAX RECORDS NOW!
Utter insanity. 15 billion for what will prove to be a useless wall? Plus billions more for its upkeep? Americans will end up paying for this folly, and NO ONE should pay a cent until we see what Trump himself has contributed to the country through his taxes (if they even exist).
There are scandals aplenty in this Administration. There are scandals aplenty tied to Trump. They must be brought down by the Press, or as Bannon calls them, 'the opposition party.' So hop to it, NYT -- the fate of the free world is riding on solid journalism right now!
There are scandals aplenty in this Administration. There are scandals aplenty tied to Trump. They must be brought down by the Press, or as Bannon calls them, 'the opposition party.' So hop to it, NYT -- the fate of the free world is riding on solid journalism right now!
2
Great idea...import tax will increase the cost of goods in the US and wiil pay for the wall...or???
1
Great ideas! Yes, let's close down Mexican immigration and tax Mexican products by 20%. I assume Mr. Trump has never been in a grocery store and noticed how many fruits and vegetables come from Mexico? I'm sure raising food prices by 20% will help his supporters. But, OTOH, we can move all of the unemployed people in West Virginia and the Rust Belt to California to pick our lettuce and strawberries.
3
He wants it, He Dreamed it, He needs it ...Let him pay for it.
Why should we have to pay for something we Don't Need??
Completely wasteful ...we could use the money in infrastructure(repair), for elderly/children HealthCare and Upgrades to our military.
Why should we have to pay for something we Don't Need??
Completely wasteful ...we could use the money in infrastructure(repair), for elderly/children HealthCare and Upgrades to our military.
3
National Institute on Drug Abuse indicates that we spend $193 Billion per year on this disease. To slow the flow of drugs across an open border is essential to slow the toll it is taking on human lives and fortunes.
One tenth of this amount to slow the flow would be a cost savings measure - even if Mexico (a virtual failed state) didn't pay one peso.
One tenth of this amount to slow the flow would be a cost savings measure - even if Mexico (a virtual failed state) didn't pay one peso.
2
Most of that is from prescription drug addiction, often resulting in heroin addiction. How will a wall stop that?
1
Short and sweet - the man is a fool and incompetent morally and intellectually to be President of the Unites States. Moreover, for 8 years we have heard the Republications talk about the national debt and tell the voters that we are "Greece on steroids". Now of course with a Republication president - we can raid the US Treasury and run up the deficit (as Regan did). Give me a break.
3
Only the little people [should] pay taxes." Love it.. 10-20% inflation on the price of Haas avocados! and on???
and no 10% luxury tax.... never even mentioned except by moi in the NYTimes.
Yes, Virginia, once upon a time everybody paid a 10% federal tax on unnecessary stuff like jewelry and art and boats. And Uncle Bill thought the tax was unfair for the millionaires even before he was one of thme.....
Time for a good cry!
and no 10% luxury tax.... never even mentioned except by moi in the NYTimes.
Yes, Virginia, once upon a time everybody paid a 10% federal tax on unnecessary stuff like jewelry and art and boats. And Uncle Bill thought the tax was unfair for the millionaires even before he was one of thme.....
Time for a good cry!
1
Lower taxes on the wealthy and corporations and effectively increase them 20% on the lower and middle classes. This is exactly what I expected. No surprises here.
2
It is time to start questioning his sanity.
1
If by time you mean starting in 1981, if not earlier, you're correct.
3
I miss Georges W. Bush.
3
This is just adding to the list of stupid laws the new unfit president continues to try to impose. Where are Trump advisors on this? Or are they also unfit to understand how an economy works and the repercussions of actions based on obsessions and immature stubbornness?
It is all of us that consume these products he is trying to raise taxes on who will be paying for this. Not only is that one of the consequences but it can also steer foreign countries to stop exporting their goods to the US. We are in a path to ruin current healthy international relationships as opposed to embracing and leveraging them.
It is all of us that consume these products he is trying to raise taxes on who will be paying for this. Not only is that one of the consequences but it can also steer foreign countries to stop exporting their goods to the US. We are in a path to ruin current healthy international relationships as opposed to embracing and leveraging them.
The wall will be a big infrastructure project that won't do much good, but will put a lot of people to work and make some construction companies a lot of money. It will be paid for by American consumers in the form of higher costs for imported goods. If it sparks a trade war the net jobs impact could be negative since we export a lot of stuff to Mexico, and the people who sell stuff imported from Mexico could lose their jobs as well.
Democrats are confused.
They have never seen a politician actually work to fulfill campaign promises before.
They have never seen a politician actually work to fulfill campaign promises before.
The president of the Phillipines is too. He wanted to rid the country of drugs, so 1000s are being murdered in the streets. The end doesn't always justify the means.
2
Ken
The promise was to have MEXICO pay for a wall. That is not going to happen.
YOU are going to pay for the wall. Wait and see. Mexico is a sovereign nation. Emperor Donnie can send them the bill, and they can say "NO." Then what does he do?
The promise was to have MEXICO pay for a wall. That is not going to happen.
YOU are going to pay for the wall. Wait and see. Mexico is a sovereign nation. Emperor Donnie can send them the bill, and they can say "NO." Then what does he do?
2
Mexico purchases nearly $220B a year in US manufactured goods which directly supports approximately 10 Million US Jobs.
Nice Job Mr. President at putting all of this at risk because of your petty ego.
Nice Job Mr. President at putting all of this at risk because of your petty ego.
2
How will all the working poor, those angry white people, who Mr. Trump duped into voting for him, be able to buy the cheap goods and produce they carry at Wal Mart?
2
An empty desk, an empty mind . The expression on his face ( or lack thereof) says it all! "How did I get here and now who shall I listen to?"
He just looks dumb! Boorish, thick-necked dumb! America, what have we done?
He just looks dumb! Boorish, thick-necked dumb! America, what have we done?
3
I didn't do anything, speak for yourself. I voted for the smart one.
1
When do you remember a President or even a politician always have to keep interjecting in interviews about how he's really a smart man or how big the applause he received or how great he will be.....it's narcissistic , weird, odd, insecure, trying to pump up his own self-esteem.
Trump keeps repeating the same nonsense about himself, like he has to prove he's greater than anyone or everyone.
Anyone who saw him obsessing over the crowd size and showing David Muir the photographs of his inauguration, and trying to convince him, or himself that the crowds were the largest anyone has ever seen is not right in the head!
Think about President's like FDR, Eisenhower, Kennedy, Reagan, Bush, Clinton.....any of them, even Nixon with his paranoia, didn't have this weird constant impulse to brag or prove he's better or greater than anyone else.
Trump is an oddball and doesn't belong with the nuclear codes without supervision.
Trump keeps repeating the same nonsense about himself, like he has to prove he's greater than anyone or everyone.
Anyone who saw him obsessing over the crowd size and showing David Muir the photographs of his inauguration, and trying to convince him, or himself that the crowds were the largest anyone has ever seen is not right in the head!
Think about President's like FDR, Eisenhower, Kennedy, Reagan, Bush, Clinton.....any of them, even Nixon with his paranoia, didn't have this weird constant impulse to brag or prove he's better or greater than anyone else.
Trump is an oddball and doesn't belong with the nuclear codes without supervision.
1
This is how Trompe pays for everything: Other People's Money.
He is rich on OPM.
This time the OPM is clearly Our money, taxpayer dollars, but he'll lie that it is really Mexico's.
The man is sick.
He is rich on OPM.
This time the OPM is clearly Our money, taxpayer dollars, but he'll lie that it is really Mexico's.
The man is sick.
3
Finally a real leader who can with withstand all kinds of diplomacies and do the right thing. This decision will lead to more jobs and prosperity for Americans and all Americans should rally behind President Trump!!!!!
LOL. You're insane. What does withstand all kind of diplomacies even mean? You have no clue what you are talking about.
2
This is all just getting worse and worse. SCARY!!
Would someone please explain to me the rationale for assuming that Mexico alone is responsible to pay for a wall? The last time I checked, both our countries bear responsibility for the situation. The point I believe is border security and a wall is an idea to do that, but to say that nothing that has been done to date, short of this wall, has been effective is refusing to look at the situation. Also, the proposal so far seems to be a "rob Peter to pay Paul", i.e., I'm Peter the taxpayer so the US can pay for Paul the wall. Most of the time, Peter never gets paid back; in fact with the 20% tariff idea I might wind up paying double for it. Border security is a laudable goal; I'm opposing to building an outrageously expensive wall even in the name of national security. I think there are better ways to ensure national security; we need Mexico as a friend, not an enemy. Hiring more personnel is a good idea to further border security. I'd like to hear more ideas from people who actually are on the ground dealing with the problems. Please be careful stewards of my tax dollar.
We have elected a child. A child with guns and nuclear weapons who, if not unchecked, will ruin the economy in a manner more permanent and irrevocable than his predecessor Republican GW Bush. Given his unbalanced tenmperment and irrational decision process one cannot rule out a nuclear incident if not a full on nuclear war. The doomsday clock needs to read 30 seconds to midnight so long as this raging lunatic is in the White House.
2
I think there is a generally flawed assumption that the impetus of building a wall is an act of cultural conservation. That may be part of it, but it's not the major driver. The main rationale is _economic_, not _cultural_ control with respect to immigration policy. The US' traditional role as a backstop/support brace for the overpopulation and failed economic development of other countries is not sustainable. Let me say that again: our country cannot sustain unchecked immigration of millions of disenfranchised people from all over South & Central America, as well as the Caribbean, Africa, and everyplace else.
If you've been reading below the main headlines, you will have noticed recent stories about refugees from Haiti and Cuba now shuttling through Mexico as a main entry point into the US. In today's edition, there's an article about the struggles Mexico is dealing with in housing the increasing influx of Haitians, and how the "wall" will make their job in caring for their itinerant people much harder. Welcome to the party, Mexico.
We should make every effort to help developing nations improve the lives of their citizens, particularly neighbors in the Western hemisphere. However, blindly taking in any and all comers via illegal immigration yields no incentive for other countries to address their own societal issues, with Uncle Sam there to clean up. Other nations need to retain their people, especially their best & brightest, to work toward building their own prosperity.
If you've been reading below the main headlines, you will have noticed recent stories about refugees from Haiti and Cuba now shuttling through Mexico as a main entry point into the US. In today's edition, there's an article about the struggles Mexico is dealing with in housing the increasing influx of Haitians, and how the "wall" will make their job in caring for their itinerant people much harder. Welcome to the party, Mexico.
We should make every effort to help developing nations improve the lives of their citizens, particularly neighbors in the Western hemisphere. However, blindly taking in any and all comers via illegal immigration yields no incentive for other countries to address their own societal issues, with Uncle Sam there to clean up. Other nations need to retain their people, especially their best & brightest, to work toward building their own prosperity.
It must have seemed like fun to Mr. T when he said Mexico will pay of it and I'm sure that part was joke much like it is now. However to even consider that Mexico would pay to be insulted on a grand scale is beyond stupid way beyond. Why it's almost as stupid as believing a wall does anything positive. All we have to do is look at history wait I live in the US where we never learn from our past mistakes. Never.
Of course if I were Mexico and wanted to really turn the US on it's head I'd instantly end the war on drugs and watch as Washington crumbles.
Of course if I were Mexico and wanted to really turn the US on it's head I'd instantly end the war on drugs and watch as Washington crumbles.
1
So much for anyone tricked into believing they brought in a businessman.
2
Republicans were once the party who touted themselves as the fiscally savvy ones, but we have empirical proof from the last 40 years (with the exception of Bush Sr) that this is a myth.
Trade wars with our largest partners, more tax breaks for the extreme wealthy, zero effort to rein in the health insurance industry, Red states that have low or no state taxes relying heavily on federal taxes to keep them a float. Increased military spending that doesn't go to the troops but to trillion dollar boondoggles.
This is according to the Republicans in Congress. Wall will be funded by taxing imports, those costs are passed on to consumers, Fed will give a minuscule tax cut to the middle to appear like they're doing something (remember the $600 you got back during the GWB years?), but this means less Federal revenue. Congress will start borrowing and dipping into the Social Security funds (which is what they did under Bush Jr). Essentially, US will be paying for the wall, while borrowing more money because there will be less tax revenue coming in.
On top of all this, we will still have an uncontrolled health insurance industry arbitrarily raising premiums every year adding the raising costs of living. The middle class will sink further lower, while those at the very top will have stashed more trillions out of the economy.
This is a replay of the Bush Jr years but worse, but cause now we have a true Oligarchy who can financially ruin this country and still walk away with billions.
Trade wars with our largest partners, more tax breaks for the extreme wealthy, zero effort to rein in the health insurance industry, Red states that have low or no state taxes relying heavily on federal taxes to keep them a float. Increased military spending that doesn't go to the troops but to trillion dollar boondoggles.
This is according to the Republicans in Congress. Wall will be funded by taxing imports, those costs are passed on to consumers, Fed will give a minuscule tax cut to the middle to appear like they're doing something (remember the $600 you got back during the GWB years?), but this means less Federal revenue. Congress will start borrowing and dipping into the Social Security funds (which is what they did under Bush Jr). Essentially, US will be paying for the wall, while borrowing more money because there will be less tax revenue coming in.
On top of all this, we will still have an uncontrolled health insurance industry arbitrarily raising premiums every year adding the raising costs of living. The middle class will sink further lower, while those at the very top will have stashed more trillions out of the economy.
This is a replay of the Bush Jr years but worse, but cause now we have a true Oligarchy who can financially ruin this country and still walk away with billions.
1
Mr. trump could pay for the wall with his back taxes! Bannon could have respect instead of disdain for real people and stop vomiting his fascist remarks all over us! Ryan could take that skim out of his pocket and act like a human being instead of playing peek a boo with ethics! GOP could take down the Ayn Rand portrait and replace it with Eleanor Roosevelt! We could all keep an eye on the National Parks as the plan will be to strip them of all their natural resources (they belong to US)! Billionaires could pay taxes and not put that burden on what remains of the middle class at 25% in the new plan! WE could find out where the money is going from all of the president's conflicts of interest! The American public could stop turning on each other and realize we are all in it together! And finally, make January 20th 'help other people day' including Mexicans, gays, people of color, the sick, the elderly and the children and anyone else who needs a leg up! God bless us all!
2
We do not need a wall we need a viable self supporting foreign worker program. People come to the United States to work because there are jobs people will pay them to do. Yes there are Americans who could do the same work but some choose not to do so.
Communities with large populations of undocumented workers need to be able off set the cost of that workforce. We need to create a foreign worker program where the fees collected go to the host community. Certainly a permit fee for the worker. Require employers to provide health insurance and to pay a head tax for each family to offset education, public safety and social service costs.
A wall will not stop illegal entry into the United States. I guess I am lucky when my 9th great grandfather came to the colonies in 1701 there were no walls. I wonder what William of Orange was thinking when he gave out land grants for French Huguenot refugees to settle in the colonies. Should we not be a land of opportunity?
Communities with large populations of undocumented workers need to be able off set the cost of that workforce. We need to create a foreign worker program where the fees collected go to the host community. Certainly a permit fee for the worker. Require employers to provide health insurance and to pay a head tax for each family to offset education, public safety and social service costs.
A wall will not stop illegal entry into the United States. I guess I am lucky when my 9th great grandfather came to the colonies in 1701 there were no walls. I wonder what William of Orange was thinking when he gave out land grants for French Huguenot refugees to settle in the colonies. Should we not be a land of opportunity?
2
Of course lets build that WALL.
While we are at it, lets start a full out trade war with Mexico.
Or better yet, lets have Mexico as an overtly hostile or even possibly failed state snug up on our 2000 mile-plus southern border with the drug cartels running the country instead of the elected government.
Lets have the American people pay the costs of a 20% tariff on Mexican goods which will of course be pushed directly to the American consumers.
All this to say nothing of the loss of billions in our goods going south to what is (or was) our second biggest trading partner.
All of this for the sake of Trump’s manic stupidity. Which by the way is being endorsed by the top Republican Congressional leadership.
Meanwhile the opposition, the shell shocked Democrats, are struggling just to define themselves.
Next up tax reform. Can’t wait.
While we are at it, lets start a full out trade war with Mexico.
Or better yet, lets have Mexico as an overtly hostile or even possibly failed state snug up on our 2000 mile-plus southern border with the drug cartels running the country instead of the elected government.
Lets have the American people pay the costs of a 20% tariff on Mexican goods which will of course be pushed directly to the American consumers.
All this to say nothing of the loss of billions in our goods going south to what is (or was) our second biggest trading partner.
All of this for the sake of Trump’s manic stupidity. Which by the way is being endorsed by the top Republican Congressional leadership.
Meanwhile the opposition, the shell shocked Democrats, are struggling just to define themselves.
Next up tax reform. Can’t wait.
1
Maybe note that while Trump was in Philadelphia that there were thousands of peaceful demonstrators that shut down the city for blocks around where the Republicans met. That's news, too, and not just local.
Trump and his Fox News rabble are bulls in a China shop. Who can predict what they will break next. In our complex world a change here or there will have unforeseen consequences.
1
Stay on the message and ask for his tax returns. He had not paid any taxes in years and not he want Americans to pay extra 20%.
2
With an inadequate and incapable president flinging around impossible and astoundingly offensive plans while the GOP congress begins to gut the government itself, I like to take a moment, lean back, close my eyes and try to imagine what Hillary Clinton's first week in office would have been like.
3
Does that 20% tax also apply to imported drugs and narcotics? Money from the USA drug trade going back to Mexico estimated to be from $16 to $29 BILLION, a year. About $3 billion in Chicago alone.
Next step is Mexico making a trade and security deal with China and we end up with the Cuba Missile Crisis but 90 miles closer. What could possibly go wrong?
1
The CONman in Chief is using the oldest CEO trick in the book: Keep your employees on their toes by keeping them in the dark and playing "Need to Know."
First of all, the states that will take the worst hits are those closest to the Mexican border: Texas and Arizona. Why? Because these two states are the ones with the most undocumented landscapers and maids. How will the Big Oil boys who are Big Oil and all that implies manage to run business and mow their own grass?
The reality is that the Liar in Chief is a megalomaniac who thinks he can do what he did in his Trump Organization: micro manager the entire population. He thinks all he has to do is dissolve the US media, insulate the US with walls from the outside world and then allow billionaires to play "Monopoly" with our lives.
Still think that it isn't time to dissolve the Republican Party as it presently exists? The Republicans bought more than they could chew in this mentally deranged nut. They bought the idea they'd USE him when in reality, megalomaniacs use everyone else. It's their stock in trade. Turn lies into Alternate Facts, demand those alternate facts become the only laws in the country and then when he has every world leader at his fingertips, he will strut around like the Emperor he believes he is.
When Xi Jinping, China's president soundd more democratic than the entire Republican Party and then makes a deal with Mexico right next door to the US, tell us again how Mr. Egomaniac is "intelligent."
First of all, the states that will take the worst hits are those closest to the Mexican border: Texas and Arizona. Why? Because these two states are the ones with the most undocumented landscapers and maids. How will the Big Oil boys who are Big Oil and all that implies manage to run business and mow their own grass?
The reality is that the Liar in Chief is a megalomaniac who thinks he can do what he did in his Trump Organization: micro manager the entire population. He thinks all he has to do is dissolve the US media, insulate the US with walls from the outside world and then allow billionaires to play "Monopoly" with our lives.
Still think that it isn't time to dissolve the Republican Party as it presently exists? The Republicans bought more than they could chew in this mentally deranged nut. They bought the idea they'd USE him when in reality, megalomaniacs use everyone else. It's their stock in trade. Turn lies into Alternate Facts, demand those alternate facts become the only laws in the country and then when he has every world leader at his fingertips, he will strut around like the Emperor he believes he is.
When Xi Jinping, China's president soundd more democratic than the entire Republican Party and then makes a deal with Mexico right next door to the US, tell us again how Mr. Egomaniac is "intelligent."
2
If there was a tax on stupid ideas, Donald would be declaring bankruptcy. Again.
1
The only fools and liars bigger than the president are the GOP Congress. "Some might raise prices, imposing the cost on consumers." Ya think? The price of anything goes up when a tariff is imposed, and the consumer pays the tariff, not the country of origin. And of course, trade wars aren't good for anyone. But maybe paying an arbitrary 20% more for a car will help the people who voted for Trump understand that he doesn't care one bit about them or their economic circumstances.
This "wall" (it's a fence!!!!!) is about his shrinking fan base. He's broken every campaign promise. A fence won't solve anything, but it's a visible, tangible symbol of his great phallic strength and has all sorts of racist implications that please his deplorables. If he brays about the "wall" they'll forget all about the fact that he has broken every other campaign promise. It doesn't even have to ever be built. Every time he brays about a "wall" his fans tune in and fawn, and forget about whatever it is he wants them to forget that day. He "won" because he appealed to and encouraged racism and xenophobia. When he doesn't create jobs, and the economy crashes, and Social Security and Medicare are further eroded (the GOP is going to raise the debt ceiling to further this goal), he and the GOP can blame the lack of a wall for all the people's problems. And the deplorables, who have been told to distrust real news, will eat it up.
1
Given the Trade balance between the US and Mexico if Trump stays in power then Mexico will certainly 'pay' for the wall. It certainly isn't fair and neither is Capitalism
and this man went to Wharton! - I'd like to see his transcripts right after he releases his taxes
3
He was an UNDERGRAD at Wharton. He does not have an MBA. He transferred in third year from ... Fordham. He majored in real estate. Wharton was one of a few schools with an UNDERGRADUATE real estate concentration.
4
Mr. Trump, before you act, consider that we and the world are depending on your wise decision making. Thus please raise your self awareness and work at shrinking your ego and your life-long obsession proving you are a consulate winner (which by the way comes from within; not from without). Also, expand your knowledge about whatever issue you are tackling and always always consider that there is a law of cause and affect and consequences that must be carefully considered prior to any and all decisions, including how you deal with Mexico and the wall and crowd size over which you't become obsessed and everything else.
1
Republicans, Support your Country! NOT your Party!
1
Has anyone checked to see what President Trump's grades were in economics at New York Military. Other Republicans like Reagan and Bush ( Iraq war on a credit card) had huge increases in the debt. Trump's policies will do likewise.
NY Military Academy is a high school for rich truants. Emperor Donnie went to Fordham for 2 years, then transferred as an undergrad to U Penn (Wharton). He does not have a Wharton MBA, just an undergrad degree with a concentration in real estate.
2
Regarding comebacks like: "The consumer will avoid the tax by purchasing another competitor's cheaper product, and hopefully an American product."
Great. Except now who pays for the wall when the tax revenue disappears and we have to cover the costs of the wall? I'll give you a clue: go find a mirror.
Oh, and those competitors with lower prices. They will just leave their prices where they are now? They would just never see the more expensive imports as an opportunity for raising their prices. No. That would never happen. Well, except it has under similar circumstances.
And that's not to mention that there isn't always a competitor/choice.
Great. Except now who pays for the wall when the tax revenue disappears and we have to cover the costs of the wall? I'll give you a clue: go find a mirror.
Oh, and those competitors with lower prices. They will just leave their prices where they are now? They would just never see the more expensive imports as an opportunity for raising their prices. No. That would never happen. Well, except it has under similar circumstances.
And that's not to mention that there isn't always a competitor/choice.
1
And, all this time, I thought only Congress solely had the constitutional power to assess taxes. Wow, the president now wants to assume the responsibilities of another branch of government. When will he start issuing judicial decisions?
This wall makes me remember the Berlin Wall built by the Eastern Block, constructions near the wall were demolished, and people died trying to cross the wall. It was called Wall of Shame, It took several years to build.. President Ronal Reagan said in 1987 to Mr. Gorbachev: "… if you seek peace, if you seek prosperity … if you seek liberalization… open this gate, tear down this wall" and finally in 1990 the wall was demolished, it took 2 years to demolish. Do we want to build another "Wall of Shame" to be paid by our taxes and burden the Mexican people with importing taxes?. I consider that we can do much better, Mr. President Trump, we want to seek peace and prosperity, we don't need to build this Wall of Shame.
1
Here is the perfect solution to the wall, have Mexico build it, with 4 foot vinyl fencing from Home Deport or Lowe's. Hey, the Goober in Chief said it will be beautifulllll. The pictures of the wall I have seen shows that wall as it stands now is pretty ugly, so lets make it beautifulllllll by landscaping it. Hey, better yet lets make Mexicans built it also. Most of the Mexicans are paid in $7-$8 an hour, think of what we would save instead of using big construction firms here in the United States with union members making $87.00 per hour. Think of the moolah we would save. And once the wall is built lets landscape it will shrubs and trees that are for the most part grown in Mexico and let the Mexicans do most of the planting. Problem solved!!!
This means that I will be paying for a wall that I don't believe is an answer to any problems. Meanwhile, that same money could be going toward food banks and after school programs in my community that ACTUALLY HELP PEOPLE.
Most of all, I am embarrassed at the tone and treatment of the government of Mexico and the people it serves. This act, combined with campaign rhetoric and the underlying racist, stereotypical portrayal of the people of Mexico (and thus is many ways Mexican-Americans) makes me want to sign a petition or letter with thousands of signatures that apologizes for his attitude and treatment of their country, and them--and assure them that many Americans do not hold his views. It makes me want to buy Mexican products.
Most of all, I am embarrassed at the tone and treatment of the government of Mexico and the people it serves. This act, combined with campaign rhetoric and the underlying racist, stereotypical portrayal of the people of Mexico (and thus is many ways Mexican-Americans) makes me want to sign a petition or letter with thousands of signatures that apologizes for his attitude and treatment of their country, and them--and assure them that many Americans do not hold his views. It makes me want to buy Mexican products.
2
Maybe we wouldn't need Mexico's produce if California would let the water flow to the central valley instead of into the ocean.
In wintertime the Central Valley is too chilly for growing many vegetables, which is why they are then imported from more southerly farms, or from areas with a marine-influenced climate. Neither antagonistic trade practices, nor capturing every drop of rain/snowfall will do anything to put more affordable produce on your table in the winter.
So far, antagonism seems to be the prevailing theme from the new administration
So far, antagonism seems to be the prevailing theme from the new administration
1
Gee whiz! Being President is hard!
1
The border wall would be an ecological and environmental disaster. The wall would prevent the migration of animals across the border and the concrete needed could release up to 1.9 million metric tons of carbon dioxide. https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2017-01-26/scientists-warn-trump...
shoot, ready, aim. Trumps kneejerk policy approach. More interested in crowing how he achieved a campaign promise than effectively resolving a long term problem. Unfortunately, we need to rely on the republican party to grow a spine to prevent many of these things from happening. Have never been a big fan of McCain or Lindsay Graham but have to give them credit on finally standing up. Anyone others out there?
Mr. Trump is right to fight against companies that produce with 0.01 % of labor cost in cheap labor depots such as China & Mexico and sell them in U.S. as high as, as if made in U.S. prices. However, Mr. Trump trumps up; he wants to abolish slavery by killing the salves. Mexico is easy but he has to use a lot of WMD in China!
1
Unfortunately, this utter ridiculous and self destructive move will be embraced by the white working class who voted for trump. Only another severe recession during the Trump administration will change the way they vote...which is a very real possibility given the early moves of trump. Racial hostility toward Hispanics and this false idea that Spanish speaking people are taking away white jobs has led to the election of trump...catastrophic personal economic loss by this class of people will have to happen for them realize their race obsessed political beliefs have only hurt them in the long run.
Now all the hillbilly- DuckDynasty crowd will pay 20% more for their goods at walmart, costco etc. Plus a fee for service and handling but at least they will not see their membership fee jump 100% like Mara Lago attendees. How long before this menace to society is put down?
1
Trump's import tax will be cheered by his supporters - until it hit them in the pocket at their Wal-Mart.
3
I would like to call the president and his cabinet entertaining, like the three stooges that is. But that would be giving president trump too much credit. There really is no plan for moving forward. So that means that were moving backwards as a nation. The ignorant masses that voted for president trump can now see how untenable his positions are. To the ruin of the american economy and betrayal of america's friends.
1
Tariff will result in much job loss in Mexico and higher prices in US. Mexicans who now can't find jobs will move--and not to Guatemala, you can bet. Creating High employment in Mexico was part of the intent of NAFTA, and it has worked to significantly reduce immigration from Mexico, which has been level or declining for the past several years. A tariff will have the opposite effect. Apparently, there is no one in the Trump admin who grasps basic economics--only high finance and investment banking.
Come on we now have the "float an idea" president...nothing like developing policy between helpings of KFC.
2
Just a week into being in office Trump creates chaos as he discusses tariffs, taxes, and negotiations with foreign countries via Twitter.
Four years of this... you've got to be kidding.
Four years of this... you've got to be kidding.
1
I am no admirer of Donald Trump, or of anybody actually.
However, if one happened to believe that globalisation had gone a bit too far and needed to be trimmed back a little (which I don't, since I don't know enough to have an opinion on these matters) one could say that a way to make the border tax work without the effect that everybody is shouting about is to taper its introduction and possibly limit it to US corporations.
You don't need to have an opinion on these matters to recognise that it was US corporations that put their own people on the streets and opened plants in Mexico for the express purpose of importing into the US. To open plants abroad to make products for local consumption is one thing. To open plants abroad with the purpose of undercutting existing plants at home is another.
Just presenting a point of view. It's not mine because I don't have one. However I can see a position that it is possible to hold.
However, if one happened to believe that globalisation had gone a bit too far and needed to be trimmed back a little (which I don't, since I don't know enough to have an opinion on these matters) one could say that a way to make the border tax work without the effect that everybody is shouting about is to taper its introduction and possibly limit it to US corporations.
You don't need to have an opinion on these matters to recognise that it was US corporations that put their own people on the streets and opened plants in Mexico for the express purpose of importing into the US. To open plants abroad to make products for local consumption is one thing. To open plants abroad with the purpose of undercutting existing plants at home is another.
Just presenting a point of view. It's not mine because I don't have one. However I can see a position that it is possible to hold.
1
Cutting aid to Mexico and taxing all remittances going to Mexico is plenty of money to build a giant wall. No more aid to them and no more of them sending us Thier unemployable trash.
Mexico will soon learn that the free lunch is OVER!!
Mexico will soon learn that the free lunch is OVER!!
1
Among the options that deserve serious considerations is a virtual wall rather than a physical wall. Our immigration system is in serious need of an overhaul. Scrap the present system and replace it with one that makes it fast and easy for good people to cross our borders (north, south, and coastal). But impose severe penalties on anyone found within our borders illegally; they shouldn't be here, period. We've provided the bait that entices people to come in our so-called welfare system. Get rid of the freebies that draw them here and keep them here. Instead of handing out free stuff paid for with tax dollars, put people to work earning enough to buy their own stuff. Doing so would take away the bait, and severe penalties for illegal border crossings would dissuade illegal entry and motivate those already here to get legal or get out. Trump needs to focus on job growth. The real unemployment rate if far too high because businesses won't hire people they don't need. Where can people who need a job get one if businesses have hired all they need? It's the job of government to put them to work doing things that are useful. Yes, the government must collect taxes to pay the people they hire. Government must use excess labor resources doing useful things that give taxpayers a good return on their investment in taxes. The WPA put people to work and paid them to do things like building dams, roads and schools ... things useful to all of us. Do it, Mr Trump.
1
How about Trump jails the real criminals -- the business owners who employ undocumented migrants? Much cheaper than a wall, and less environmental and diplomatic damage. Where I come from, we shut off faucets by turning a handle, not by stuffing our thumbs in the nozzle.
But is Trump going to jail himself and his fellow plutocrats? Not a chance. They want the flow of cheap migrants to continue. The rest is mere theater to appease the Trump base.
Let's ask who holds the real power here -- Mexican peasants or American tycoons? Punching downward may be satisfying and easy, but it's not a solution.
But is Trump going to jail himself and his fellow plutocrats? Not a chance. They want the flow of cheap migrants to continue. The rest is mere theater to appease the Trump base.
Let's ask who holds the real power here -- Mexican peasants or American tycoons? Punching downward may be satisfying and easy, but it's not a solution.
1
How could anyone (other than a fool) insult our most important partner with their 125 million customers and the 20 percent of the USA population that are Hispanic.
Few may have noticed, but the most significant event yesterday was when the Foreign Minister drove away after arriving at the Homeland Security Offices.
Trump has surrounded himself with a inner core of family/advisors that are both xenophobic and simplistic.
God help us, no one else will.
Few may have noticed, but the most significant event yesterday was when the Foreign Minister drove away after arriving at the Homeland Security Offices.
Trump has surrounded himself with a inner core of family/advisors that are both xenophobic and simplistic.
God help us, no one else will.
What are Republicans going to do about this massive tax proposed on their largest donors? For decades, the GOP enabled job exportation and 'free trade'. All of a sudden, they're going to turn on their funders? The campaign cash will dry up in a heartbeat. The 'poorly educated' aren't going to make up for the lost millions.
I don't see it happening, and am confused as to why nobody is talking about this.
I don't see it happening, and am confused as to why nobody is talking about this.
Consumer boycott.
Do I really need 6 T-shirts Made In Honduras, when for the same cost, 3 Made In USA T-shirts will do the job.
Do we really need the i-Phone 7, 8, 9 10, ... I would think that Gary, In or Flint Mi could use some of the 100,000 + jobs from FoxConn China.
Do I really need 6 T-shirts Made In Honduras, when for the same cost, 3 Made In USA T-shirts will do the job.
Do we really need the i-Phone 7, 8, 9 10, ... I would think that Gary, In or Flint Mi could use some of the 100,000 + jobs from FoxConn China.
1
Mexico should immediately stop all activities related to detaining immigrants coming through Mexico attempting to enter the US. That would give Donald and his "criminal " gang a real problem instead of these made up hyped up ones.
If POTUS KNOWs what he's doing; he's easily one of the best I've ever observed concealing the fact they don't.
3
Well for the people who think that President Trump's reckless behavior can or will be moderated by a more rational GOP leadership, I have two words for you: 'Government Shutdown'. As I recall, when it comes to choosing between making rational choices on behalf of the American people or marching lockstep toward some sort of ideological Valhalla, this iteration of the GOP leadership has a hugely spotty track record. By their past behavior they seem, in fact, to prefer looking toward some sort of national cleansing of Democracy of its Federalists roots, even if it involves abdicating their responsibility to act as a check to the next demigod that need only promise them a return to the feudalism of States Rights. Cold comfort to think that in Norse mythology Valhalla ended, in fact, in a gigantic cataclysm called Ragnarok which brought down the kingdom of the gods forever.
1
Americans are already the fattest, least healthy among developed countries. Poor diets lead to increased health care costs and reduce the productivity of the work force. How is increasing the price on most fruits and vegetables going to help this country? It won't hurt just "the people" - it will hurt employers.
3
I fear the Trump/Bannon aim is to bring everyone to their knees by sowing economic and diplomatic chaos and destruction - to be followed by military suppression and domination.
The Trump administration is highly, highly dangerous now, and holds ill intention towards our own government, contempt for our press, our institutions, and for our allies. Imagine how much worse it could be if Trump used all the powers he has with the same intentions.
Trump is not just a fool - he is a national emergency. Impeachment may be too slow a process to contain his damage. Patriots should call for Trump and Pence's immediate resignations.
The Trump administration is highly, highly dangerous now, and holds ill intention towards our own government, contempt for our press, our institutions, and for our allies. Imagine how much worse it could be if Trump used all the powers he has with the same intentions.
Trump is not just a fool - he is a national emergency. Impeachment may be too slow a process to contain his damage. Patriots should call for Trump and Pence's immediate resignations.
Obviously with a 20% import tax American consumers would pay for the wall when they buy their lettuce, tomatoes and radishes next year.
Why not reduce the corporate tax rate and pay for it by higher income tax rates on the rich and higher inheritance tax? We don't need more individuals worth $25 billion in this country.
Why not reduce the corporate tax rate and pay for it by higher income tax rates on the rich and higher inheritance tax? We don't need more individuals worth $25 billion in this country.
1
Someone pinch me and wake me up . . . "I'm having a nightmare" !
I find it very troubling - when associating the "before election comments as NOT Qualified" to the actions performed/orders signed - in just one week since the inauguration.
Is it even possible that the new "White House" understands so little about international trade ? ? ?
I have found it great and wonderful privilege to be an "American living in the Americas (North America). We have very long boarders to the North and the South and also enjoy very nice trade associations overall.
In regards to "needing a wall" as a complete structure between "us" and Mexico is no longer even a plausible issue.
"Check the Facts" - not the "Alternative Facts" !
The US Boarder Patrol does an awesome job - now aided with drones and satellite surveillance . . . illegal crossings are way down - and getting lower.
Workers from the 'Patrol" have commented as "not needing" any expansion of existing physical structures . . . Please - will "someone" please listen !
"All in a day" - It was nice to see some "responsible Republicans" yank the chain on this ridiculous "20% Tax suggestion" - - - but we need more - !
An NO - The Media should NOT listen to Steve Bannon - I am looking with deep earnest for my "go-to" oasis of reality - The New York Times - to "Stay the course on Real News -
Thank you - I really appreciate your efforts
I find it very troubling - when associating the "before election comments as NOT Qualified" to the actions performed/orders signed - in just one week since the inauguration.
Is it even possible that the new "White House" understands so little about international trade ? ? ?
I have found it great and wonderful privilege to be an "American living in the Americas (North America). We have very long boarders to the North and the South and also enjoy very nice trade associations overall.
In regards to "needing a wall" as a complete structure between "us" and Mexico is no longer even a plausible issue.
"Check the Facts" - not the "Alternative Facts" !
The US Boarder Patrol does an awesome job - now aided with drones and satellite surveillance . . . illegal crossings are way down - and getting lower.
Workers from the 'Patrol" have commented as "not needing" any expansion of existing physical structures . . . Please - will "someone" please listen !
"All in a day" - It was nice to see some "responsible Republicans" yank the chain on this ridiculous "20% Tax suggestion" - - - but we need more - !
An NO - The Media should NOT listen to Steve Bannon - I am looking with deep earnest for my "go-to" oasis of reality - The New York Times - to "Stay the course on Real News -
Thank you - I really appreciate your efforts
This president is so smart that eventually the invoice for the wall would be mailed to himself not to the Mexicans. Trump claims to be a great businessman and negotiator but the evidence shows just the opposite.
1
President Obama had the best idea. In the 2012 State of the Union address he asked Congress to pass legislation that would give corporations a tax break for bringing jobs back onshore. The GOP Congress refused. Never forget all the brilliant ideas that went nowhere because the GOP wanted him to fail.
2
The analysis in these letters fail to consider who DT is talking to. Yes, the cost of various items will go up. But, many of the DT supporters will deny that it is happening and if they do, they won't care. They fell they are being slowly destroyed and by upsetting the status quo, they have a chance for a better life.
1
Maybe he could start by paying his own taxes. You know. Set an example for the other tax cheats in his crowd.
2
As an astute bully, Trump is picking a sure win fight against poor and defenseless Mexico.
Trump's real macho posture, however, will be tested when he tackles China, Russia, and North Korea.
Donald Trump's violent delights are doomed to beget violent ends.
Trump's real macho posture, however, will be tested when he tackles China, Russia, and North Korea.
Donald Trump's violent delights are doomed to beget violent ends.
I think Theresa May may have effectively figured out how to tell DJT he cray-cray.
Heap a ton of praise on him then say no.
Here's my attempt....
(Eyes closed)
"GOP, Your Excellency the Honorable King Trump:
I honor your great achievement and am in awed if your huge fingers but no on the wall. Or the rest of your agenda!"
(Opening one eye.....and looking around)
"Did it work?"
darn it. Should, have called him Emperor Trump.....
Heap a ton of praise on him then say no.
Here's my attempt....
(Eyes closed)
"GOP, Your Excellency the Honorable King Trump:
I honor your great achievement and am in awed if your huge fingers but no on the wall. Or the rest of your agenda!"
(Opening one eye.....and looking around)
"Did it work?"
darn it. Should, have called him Emperor Trump.....
So, let me understand ...
American taxpayers are going to pay for Trump's Great Wall of Mexico twice: once, by borrowing $14-billion (or $20-billion .... $45-billion, anyone?) to finance initial construction; Amercan taxpayers paying interest on the new federal debt created -- actually, a transfer payment (subsidy) to already wealthy investors since they actually are the ones who loan the government money by buying federal debt. Then, they "pay at the pump" a second time when they buy products imported from Mexico, since all import tariffs and excise taxes are collected from the ultimate consumer -- Americans, in this case.
Such a great deal. The art of the deal, indeed ... .
American taxpayers are going to pay for Trump's Great Wall of Mexico twice: once, by borrowing $14-billion (or $20-billion .... $45-billion, anyone?) to finance initial construction; Amercan taxpayers paying interest on the new federal debt created -- actually, a transfer payment (subsidy) to already wealthy investors since they actually are the ones who loan the government money by buying federal debt. Then, they "pay at the pump" a second time when they buy products imported from Mexico, since all import tariffs and excise taxes are collected from the ultimate consumer -- Americans, in this case.
Such a great deal. The art of the deal, indeed ... .
1
Mean Mr. Mustard and his advisors seem to be astoundingly ignorant of existing trade laws, not to mention policies.
Contrary to Bannon calling the media the "opposition", it would appear the American people have become the opposition to this administration, and their deaf, dumb and blind (and apparently morally bankrupt) "advisors".
Contrary to Bannon calling the media the "opposition", it would appear the American people have become the opposition to this administration, and their deaf, dumb and blind (and apparently morally bankrupt) "advisors".
2
What we will get is the following:
- online sales will quadruple as Amazon, Ebay reap the benefits of customers directly "importing" from overseas sellers with out paying the tariff.
- the retail sector in the US will collapse because they will not be able to pass on a 20% cost increase to the majority of the customer base, the reason being many customers simply do not have the ability to afford this increase and will instead move to a substitute or even forego / drastically cut back on consumption
- this will in turn drive a supply surplus overseas, which will cause the suppliers to ultimately cut production to bring supply in line with demand
- which will lead to a drastic contraction of global economic activity - in other words a repeat of the 1930s style Depression
- Buy gold and precious metal and stock up on canned soup, beans and canned milk
- History is set to repeat itself and Laugh at all us suckers
- online sales will quadruple as Amazon, Ebay reap the benefits of customers directly "importing" from overseas sellers with out paying the tariff.
- the retail sector in the US will collapse because they will not be able to pass on a 20% cost increase to the majority of the customer base, the reason being many customers simply do not have the ability to afford this increase and will instead move to a substitute or even forego / drastically cut back on consumption
- this will in turn drive a supply surplus overseas, which will cause the suppliers to ultimately cut production to bring supply in line with demand
- which will lead to a drastic contraction of global economic activity - in other words a repeat of the 1930s style Depression
- Buy gold and precious metal and stock up on canned soup, beans and canned milk
- History is set to repeat itself and Laugh at all us suckers
Trump and the Republicans have been focusing on the wrong thing. No surprises there. A physical wall is purely symbolic against thwarting Mexican people from coming here to live and work. If the US government were really serious about staunching the flow of illegal immigrants to this country, they only have to make it impossible for businesses here to stop hiring people not authorized to work here. We've had a few things in place for years that are supposedly there to keep companies from hiring non-authorized workers. The I-9 and the "E-Verify" system are both jokes. I've filled out 100s of I-9 forms that are created with what I've later learned are illegally gotten false documents that are thereafter filed away and NEVER checked by the government. Rather than build expensive walls, hold businesses accountable for who they hire but I don't see that happening since businesses are the revenue stream for re-election of so many of our politicians both Republican and Democrats
2
I truly have come to believe that this mentally deficient orangutan boy has never actually been taken seriously before in his life. Now that everyone is listening to him, he his more focused on the dopamine rush he gets from the attention, bad or good than what he is actually saying or doing. I've heard others say this is a negotiation tactic. Of course that is ridiculous, and to even entertain the idea that this is some kind of crazy-like-a-fox strategy he's playing is to ignore all of the facts we have on his history, his lack of intelligence and his behavior. And we thought George W had daddy issues!
3
A TAX? The republicans propose a 20% tax? They are really "on their knees" for Papa Don
1
Mr. Trump was able to claw his way into the presidency but his obsession with his inaugural crowd size, his illogical ranting about illegal voters, and his uncensored tweets praising and condemning individual businesses confirms what many suspected: He is unfit for the presidency and constitutes a danger to the nation.
2
And all because he has Small Hands and his detectives in HI investigating Obama came up with nothing but Travel Expenses.
"“We have no choice.”"
This is the scariest line.
We have a LOT of choices, and here we are (a) alienating a friend border nation, (b) wasting time and money on building something that's essentially useless, and (c) making American citizens pay for it.
This kind of tortured, flailing chaos is all that Trump can give us, as he learns the hard way that governing is tough, that it involves looking several steps down the road, and that it isn't just about yelling and acting "tough". Unfortunately, I don't think that his fans look any farther down the road than he does.
Not seeing even two steps ahead was one of the huge flaws with the Tea Party and its ideas. Trump and his supporters have taken it even farther. Now we don't think even one step down the road. And they're flailing incompetently in full public view.
This is the scariest line.
We have a LOT of choices, and here we are (a) alienating a friend border nation, (b) wasting time and money on building something that's essentially useless, and (c) making American citizens pay for it.
This kind of tortured, flailing chaos is all that Trump can give us, as he learns the hard way that governing is tough, that it involves looking several steps down the road, and that it isn't just about yelling and acting "tough". Unfortunately, I don't think that his fans look any farther down the road than he does.
Not seeing even two steps ahead was one of the huge flaws with the Tea Party and its ideas. Trump and his supporters have taken it even farther. Now we don't think even one step down the road. And they're flailing incompetently in full public view.
3
This is Trump's biggest lie yet. His proposal is not a tax on Mexico; it's a tax on Americans and could trigger inflation that makes the Seventies and Eighties look tame by comparison.
That silly gesture that Trump constantly makes with his thumb and forefinger as he talks ... you know, the one that makes a zero ... serves only to underscore how much common sense he has.
That silly gesture that Trump constantly makes with his thumb and forefinger as he talks ... you know, the one that makes a zero ... serves only to underscore how much common sense he has.
5
When he says that Mexico will pay for the wall he doesn't mean that they will finance it. He means that they have wronged us and we will get revenge.
You can't listen to what he says. You have to listen to what is in his cold, black, spiteful heart.
You can't listen to what he says. You have to listen to what is in his cold, black, spiteful heart.
4
Between taxes on imports, deporting farm workers, and messing with American retailers, Trump won't rest until Americans have to pay $15 for a tomato and avocados have the status of 17th century Dutch tulips.
3
I actually like the idea of slapping Mexico with a penalty for all the drugs it allows to flow into our country. With them come crime and violence.
1
Interesting, what do you believe is the Tariff for the (Illegal) Drugs Colombia exports to US or what it should be?
All that Mexico has to do to make up for deficits caused by US-imposed nonsense is to relax its border security. Mexico's substantial border patrolling costs are primarily in the service of US interests. It's dangerous business to fight with neighbors when the stakes are so high. This man has no idea what he's doing. His tantrums will be costly in more ways than we can imagine right now.
1
If trade deals are cancelled how will we have imports to tax in the first place? What about the loss of thousands of jobs in the import/export business - transportation; storage; distribution; accounting, etc.?
1
Trump wants to build a wall on the US side of the border with Mexico. He wants Mexico to pay for it. I want to build a fence in my backyard. I'm going to get my neighbors to pay for it. Now I sound as STUPID as The Donald.
4
Another day of government by twitter. Instead of being patient and meeting with intelligent, experienced people, our "leaders" tweet out ideas or have hasty press conferences and let public outcry determine whether they are good or even just tolerable ones. It's going to be a long xx days until this insane brand of governance goes away.
1
I am sure that the contractor that gets the job to build the wall will use immigrant labor to build it. They want to make a profit. This is a giveaway to big business.
Studies are already demonstrating that Mexico will benefit financially from the build. We'd have to use prison labor to beat their basement offer. Can you imagine Trump forcing detained immigrants to build it? I can. I've lived with a narcissist, and when they don't prevail, they escalate.
2
Build that wall! I voted for you! Get rid of every illegal alien in this country. Cut off funding for those sanctuary cities. Stop the madness. Build a minefield next to the wall!!!!
1
That'll work. Then it will look like 1980 Berlin, except across the whole border. Seriously, minefield? Do you know the CARNAGE (great word) they have caused across the world in countries that laid them down (while at WAR, mind you, not just tiffed about people coming across the border)?
Chris:
Get rid of every illegal, huh? You must not know very much.
According to multiple sources, economic activity produced by illegal immigrant spending supports about 5% of the US economy and they own around 4% of the real estate market.
The Congressional Budge Office estimates that between 50-75% of unauthorized immigrants pay local, state and federal taxes. Illegal immigrants pay over $7B to social security alone--and are unlikely to collect benefits. Ever. Without their contributions, SS will collapse that much sooner. Further, state government would be crippled---in 2006, when the numbers were lower than today, Texas estimated that the 1.4M illegal immigrants added $18B to the state budget.
Illegals are here---and we have to deal with it. I don't disagree with securing our borders, but we need to be real that illegals did not come here unaided--we hire them to do jobs most Americans do not want to do.
Further, there is much evidence that they are advancing faster than other groups precisely because culturally, any person who has the gonads to move and start over again is inherently resilient and hard working.
So perhaps the madness is that the populace is woefully uneducated.....and prejudiced about people with different color skin. I am not against securing the border.....and I am not advocating breaking the law. But these people are here....and we have invited them and provided for them. We have to deal with them humanely and in a way that doesn't hurt us all.
Get rid of every illegal, huh? You must not know very much.
According to multiple sources, economic activity produced by illegal immigrant spending supports about 5% of the US economy and they own around 4% of the real estate market.
The Congressional Budge Office estimates that between 50-75% of unauthorized immigrants pay local, state and federal taxes. Illegal immigrants pay over $7B to social security alone--and are unlikely to collect benefits. Ever. Without their contributions, SS will collapse that much sooner. Further, state government would be crippled---in 2006, when the numbers were lower than today, Texas estimated that the 1.4M illegal immigrants added $18B to the state budget.
Illegals are here---and we have to deal with it. I don't disagree with securing our borders, but we need to be real that illegals did not come here unaided--we hire them to do jobs most Americans do not want to do.
Further, there is much evidence that they are advancing faster than other groups precisely because culturally, any person who has the gonads to move and start over again is inherently resilient and hard working.
So perhaps the madness is that the populace is woefully uneducated.....and prejudiced about people with different color skin. I am not against securing the border.....and I am not advocating breaking the law. But these people are here....and we have invited them and provided for them. We have to deal with them humanely and in a way that doesn't hurt us all.
And if he doesn't, then what, Chris?
Same as the election....so many failures, lies, scandals it is impossible to keep up.
And this is just the first week.
Returning to 19th century mercantilism and trade protectionism. Am sure Wharton is proud that he got an undergraduate degree there.....apparently he slept through macroeconomics and history
And this is just the first week.
Returning to 19th century mercantilism and trade protectionism. Am sure Wharton is proud that he got an undergraduate degree there.....apparently he slept through macroeconomics and history
4
I know zero about economics, but maybe China can buy those 20% tariffed Mexican exports directly from Mexico, relabel them and sell them to us. I'm sure if our relationship with Mexico goes down the tubes, other countries will be happy to step in and do business with them...and more.
4
Does Trump really believe he can create a tax that people like him can't get around?
Do we get it yet?
Obviously not. While we're all freaking about the uncertainty, the conflict, the radical departures, Trump is relaxing in his new digs happy as a rotten clam.
THIS IS WHAT HE WANTS. THIS IS WHAT HE DOES. He told you as much: "I like to be unpredictable". It 's going according to plan. It perfectly matches his behavior as a failed businessman.
He has already turned the government into a division of Trump Inc. With a neutered, low testosterone Republican Party whimpering under his desk, he is free to behave like any dictatorial chief executive. With his cadre of low-integrity sycophants, he is insulated from any consequence. As he has always done.
He is free to pursue and promote his destructive prejudices at will.
What I wish the NYT would attend to is the nationwide coup underway from the Right. Granted the DC GOP was caught and bullied into not openly declaring ethics are a chump's game. But in Statehouses around the country they are ignoring the law, their constituents, and government regulations to render voters stupid and impotent, to make certain any Democrat in office has no resources and no authority to govern, and to assure themselves perpetual control.
These are not coincidental acts. This is no historical accident. The Right sees its opportunity and they will grab it with an iron claw. Beginning with Garland and ending who knows where, the Right is determined to rule unconstrained. And we're allowing them to do it.
Obviously not. While we're all freaking about the uncertainty, the conflict, the radical departures, Trump is relaxing in his new digs happy as a rotten clam.
THIS IS WHAT HE WANTS. THIS IS WHAT HE DOES. He told you as much: "I like to be unpredictable". It 's going according to plan. It perfectly matches his behavior as a failed businessman.
He has already turned the government into a division of Trump Inc. With a neutered, low testosterone Republican Party whimpering under his desk, he is free to behave like any dictatorial chief executive. With his cadre of low-integrity sycophants, he is insulated from any consequence. As he has always done.
He is free to pursue and promote his destructive prejudices at will.
What I wish the NYT would attend to is the nationwide coup underway from the Right. Granted the DC GOP was caught and bullied into not openly declaring ethics are a chump's game. But in Statehouses around the country they are ignoring the law, their constituents, and government regulations to render voters stupid and impotent, to make certain any Democrat in office has no resources and no authority to govern, and to assure themselves perpetual control.
These are not coincidental acts. This is no historical accident. The Right sees its opportunity and they will grab it with an iron claw. Beginning with Garland and ending who knows where, the Right is determined to rule unconstrained. And we're allowing them to do it.
9
John S,
Exactly. Thank you for speaking out.
Exactly. Thank you for speaking out.
It won't take Trump more than an executive order and tons of money to build the hateful wall separating the north Americans from those who have always been our good neighbors to the south. I wonder who will bring it down? Someday there will be another Ronald Reagan to say "Tear down that wall".
1
The wall won't be built.
Please reconsider offending our neighbor Mexico. NAFTA has been a plus.
1
Roger that, Julie. I live near the border and a university where they study such things. Mexico's economy is much healthier, they have reduced family size, increased education, and now their home grown engineers can find work there. So where are we gonna find them? Someone's got to take those classes at the University, and American's are just not up for such hard work.
Who would want to study at Trump's UofA? T
Who would want to study at Trump's UofA? T
1
Even if trump does succeed in building a wall I'm estimating that mexico will only have so much money, America will have to pay for most of it anyway so why not just pay for all of it and leave mexico alone? Right?
1
What nonsense! The way to keep Mexicans from sneaking over the border, is to jail the Republican businessmen who hire them illegally.
It's extremely hard to find a Mexican crawling through the desert at night, but it's super easy to find a rich American businessman - just get a list of all the people who are never audited by the IRS. Let's solve this "problem" the easy way.
The Trump way, a regressive tax on Americans who eat tomatoes, is not in my interests - how about you?
It's extremely hard to find a Mexican crawling through the desert at night, but it's super easy to find a rich American businessman - just get a list of all the people who are never audited by the IRS. Let's solve this "problem" the easy way.
The Trump way, a regressive tax on Americans who eat tomatoes, is not in my interests - how about you?
3
Yes!!! The laws against hiring illegals are already on the books. The penalties may not be stiff enough, and they are certainly not enforced consistently enough. It's still a good deal for a company to hire illegals and risk paying the occasional small fine. If Trump and the GOP were serious about curbing illegal immigration they'd destroy the jobs that are the reason 99% of people cross the border. They could do it with minimal investment (increased enforcement of the laws already there). But here's the dirty secret: The fat cats love their illegal labor. That's why you KNOW this is all a ruse. Plutocrats and oligarchs (the GOP) are not going to do anything to reduce the availability of cheap, illegal labor, which allows them to abuse workers. undermines unions, and drags all wages down. There it is. The GOP ultimately is not going to let Trump curb illegal immigration. Ever. This is all noise for the people they are trying to screw over. "Look - those immigrants are the reason you are failing and struggling!"
1
Not only could such a tax set off an inflationary spiral, it has already tarnished our relationship with a friendly, neighbor nation. No doubt other nations are seriously questioning our leaders' judgment and credibility as well. I feel like we are going backward in terms of international relations.
3
Could Putin be any prouder of his magnificent achievement? I know Trump feels he's owed the same honor, but can't see why we aren't impressed.
1
Trump is like a bull. He sees that big red flag and it's all he sees. Doesn't occur to him that there is anything behind the flag, or that the flag might move or change or disappear in the future. With this kind of laser focus, what could possibly go wrong?
28
Narcissist have no capacity to feel empathy for anybody but themselves. They will gladly take up the victimhood of others to wear as their own if it gets them more attention.
The World saw Saturday a unified cry for the forces of civility and humanity.
Trump is not up for either of those things as they demand empathy.
The World saw Saturday a unified cry for the forces of civility and humanity.
Trump is not up for either of those things as they demand empathy.
With apology for the mixed metaphor. I have a feeling good writing and clear communication will become more important than ever. Let's not ever let their obfuscation and "alternative facts" become acceptable or normal.
1
Trump is the narcissistic populist-demagogue-charlatan, the Gov. Huey Pierce Long (D-La) type of politician whom the Founding Fathers feared would become the republic's undertaker, a bit like Publius Clodius Pulcher, or the brothers Gracchi.
One flew over the cuckoo's....
And landed in the oval office.
I do believe there is a Chinese saying that says: "That which is not sustainable will not be sustained."
The question is, which will give out first, Trump or the ordinary American people?
I do recall the SNL skit parodying "Love Actually" with the Hillary character hold up sign boards trying to whew an elector away from Trump, the last sign board saying "He'll kill us all'.
That kind of reminded me of the Onion parody of George Bush's inaugural address:"Our long national nightmare of peace and prosperity is finally over."
Parody has a way of guessing Republicans correctly. I can see Trump starting a war to try to reverse his low popularity numbers. The shameful truth is, some undeserving people will die in order to stroke one man's ego.
And landed in the oval office.
I do believe there is a Chinese saying that says: "That which is not sustainable will not be sustained."
The question is, which will give out first, Trump or the ordinary American people?
I do recall the SNL skit parodying "Love Actually" with the Hillary character hold up sign boards trying to whew an elector away from Trump, the last sign board saying "He'll kill us all'.
That kind of reminded me of the Onion parody of George Bush's inaugural address:"Our long national nightmare of peace and prosperity is finally over."
Parody has a way of guessing Republicans correctly. I can see Trump starting a war to try to reverse his low popularity numbers. The shameful truth is, some undeserving people will die in order to stroke one man's ego.
4
Don't any of you actually see what is going on here? We won't be pushed around anymore. Mexico needs us far more then we need them. We need to beat them into submission, not defying and disrespecting us. They have been taking advantage of the US for 20 years. The party is over. We will not take much damage from this, but Mexico will suffer until they play ball. They are such hypocrites, they protect their borders from Central america fiercely and by using with violence and aggression, yet when the US wants to protect our border they throw a fit. I wonder why?
1
No they don't need us more.
Rich People need poor labor more than the other way around.
Poor people are used to not having, Rich people aren't.
Rich People need poor labor more than the other way around.
Poor people are used to not having, Rich people aren't.
The president Mr. Trump did not say this at the time of campaigning. Now,he wants the consumers to pay for building Mexico wall. He had said that he will recover the cost from Mexico. If this is the fate of one of his promises,one can very well imagine what will happen to others. The Berlin wall has become history - even West Germany (then )_ did not impose such a tax. Now,we have a modern wall - Mexico wall. Even the ancient Chinese wall - people did not pay any tax when it was built hundreds of years ago,to deter invaders. Is the new regime finding itself helpless? Why it is making US citizens pay for one of his crazy ideas? Poor quality of governance .
2
Right...To cure the woes of dysfunctional Washington, hire a businessman with acumen.
Yea? And how's that working out for ya so far?
hints: His cabinet nominations, being confirmed by an equally myopic Senate, are not those who have much care or concern for the plight of "the little people;" his continual obsession with the size of the inaugural crowd and the popular vote results are red flags waving.
Yea? And how's that working out for ya so far?
hints: His cabinet nominations, being confirmed by an equally myopic Senate, are not those who have much care or concern for the plight of "the little people;" his continual obsession with the size of the inaugural crowd and the popular vote results are red flags waving.
1
"The Art of the Deal"
by Donald Trump
Saving American jobs: Saved 500 Carrier jobs by giving Carrier a tax break.
Trumpcare: Reducing cost by increase premiums, increasing out-of-pocket expenses, reducing coverage, and not providing coverage for people with pre-existing conditions.
Trump wall: To be paid for by taxing imports from Mexico making everything for all Americans more expensive.
Next, look forward to "The Art of Deal" in:
Securing America's interest in the South China Sea,
Moving the US embassy in Israel to Jerusalem,
Making NATO countries pay their fair share for US Military support.
What could possibly go wrong?
by Donald Trump
Saving American jobs: Saved 500 Carrier jobs by giving Carrier a tax break.
Trumpcare: Reducing cost by increase premiums, increasing out-of-pocket expenses, reducing coverage, and not providing coverage for people with pre-existing conditions.
Trump wall: To be paid for by taxing imports from Mexico making everything for all Americans more expensive.
Next, look forward to "The Art of Deal" in:
Securing America's interest in the South China Sea,
Moving the US embassy in Israel to Jerusalem,
Making NATO countries pay their fair share for US Military support.
What could possibly go wrong?
3
The party is infallible.
The Chump is evidently unaware that trade with Mexico, some 554Bn in 2015, is fairly balanced. Or that some 6 million US jobs are dependent upon trade with NAFTA partners Canada and Mexico. A total of 1.2 trillion annually, equally distributed as imports and exports.
Current account balances...the payments resulting from that trade...are similarly balanced. Trade with China is another matter. We buy a lot, but are selling them only a bit over half as much...and payments are imbalanced.
Kneejerk actions in the face of great ignorance are going to do the US long term harm.
...and then there is the ACA, which is modelled after that famous GOP plan, Romney care. The only way that free market insurance rates can be forced down is for the federal government to override state's rights to regulate their insurance markets...making a national risk pool instead of multiple state pools.
OR... the governmenet will become the insurer of last resort.
Fasten your seatbelts.
Current account balances...the payments resulting from that trade...are similarly balanced. Trade with China is another matter. We buy a lot, but are selling them only a bit over half as much...and payments are imbalanced.
Kneejerk actions in the face of great ignorance are going to do the US long term harm.
...and then there is the ACA, which is modelled after that famous GOP plan, Romney care. The only way that free market insurance rates can be forced down is for the federal government to override state's rights to regulate their insurance markets...making a national risk pool instead of multiple state pools.
OR... the governmenet will become the insurer of last resort.
Fasten your seatbelts.
2
Donald Trump is apparently determined to comply with one of his promises. That is, to make Mexico pay for a wall along the US South border.
Here is a serious foreign policy question to deal with. Trump is breaking, unilaterally, the Congress approved NAFTA. What will happen to US foreign policy credibility from now on?
Can Theresa May trust Donald Trump on a post-Brexit trade deal?
Here is a serious foreign policy question to deal with. Trump is breaking, unilaterally, the Congress approved NAFTA. What will happen to US foreign policy credibility from now on?
Can Theresa May trust Donald Trump on a post-Brexit trade deal?
Putting aside the wisdom, or lack thereof, of the "we're-making-this-up-as-we-go-along tax" (my proposal for its name), can the GOP not come up with a better way to spend $20B than building a wall? Like, say, health care? Education? Feeding the poor?
If abandoning the wall would be too much egg on Trump's face because it was such a central point of his campaign of belligerence, his advisers should sit him down, explain the meaning of "metaphor," and assign Kellyanne the task of fabricating a story that he only meant a metaphorical wall. She is pretty good with alternative facts, and metaphors are much cheaper than walls.
If abandoning the wall would be too much egg on Trump's face because it was such a central point of his campaign of belligerence, his advisers should sit him down, explain the meaning of "metaphor," and assign Kellyanne the task of fabricating a story that he only meant a metaphorical wall. She is pretty good with alternative facts, and metaphors are much cheaper than walls.
1
Stupid idea 1 build a wall instead of fixing the immigration laws. Which is more cost effective? DJT brilliant business man?
Stupid idea number 2 go after all the illegal aliens, and some legal ones too. What the heck they look different, they pray different
Effect of said policies: Cost of wall shifted to the American tax payer, Agricultural prices will skyrocket as some farms fail because of lack of migrant workers, and other farms need to raise prices to attract labor.
Brilliant!
As a bonus maybe we could start making fun of hockey and that girly man Justin Trudeau.
Any one with a single brain cell functioning can tell you this will not work, these are the antithesis of logical policies, as if someone with a bad sense of humor decided to come up with the dumbest idea ever. nice work chito messiah
Stupid idea number 2 go after all the illegal aliens, and some legal ones too. What the heck they look different, they pray different
Effect of said policies: Cost of wall shifted to the American tax payer, Agricultural prices will skyrocket as some farms fail because of lack of migrant workers, and other farms need to raise prices to attract labor.
Brilliant!
As a bonus maybe we could start making fun of hockey and that girly man Justin Trudeau.
Any one with a single brain cell functioning can tell you this will not work, these are the antithesis of logical policies, as if someone with a bad sense of humor decided to come up with the dumbest idea ever. nice work chito messiah
2
There has to be a point when common sense overcomes this insanity. One only hopes that we don't have to wait for the total dismantling of all that has been accomplished economically, socially, environmentally, and in areas of education, technology, and science before that common sense returns.
WE will pay for this wall one way or another ... we are to a certain extent as soon as Homeland Security funds are moved from one project ... for example airport security ... to begin construction ...
The 20% tax passes the costs onto us as consumers ... if other countries stop buying our goods prices go up and people get laid off ...
WE will pay for this wall ...
The 20% tax passes the costs onto us as consumers ... if other countries stop buying our goods prices go up and people get laid off ...
WE will pay for this wall ...
1
Stop calling it a wall. That's just Trump talk for his giant phallic symbol. At best it will be a rickety fence. It's a fence!
1
Do not forget, a politicians first order of business is to win/prepare for the next election. If Trump can not make good on the major points of his campaign, Trump will perceive that the electorate will perceive him to be a person unable to keep his word.
In the news today, Mexicans are now boycotting U.S. companies. They are huge consumers of our giant brands such as Coca-Cola. It's sad to me that Mexicans are boycotting Starbucks, who have stuck their neck out as a corporation to stand up for the good things, and oppose Trump. Sometimes boycotts just aren't fair. Trump, by raising the ire of folks who should be our allies, is already hurting the U.S. economy! The sad thing is, this was predictable! Where Obama played thoughtful chess, Trump is a snorting bull in a china shop. Some of the china he breaks won't be repairable or replaceable.
1
Each year, Mexican nationals unlawfully residing in the United States wire about $25 billion in tax-free remittances back home to Mexico. The fairest way to pay for the Border Wall would be to tax the remittances. This way those who create the need for the Border Wall will pay for its construction and maintenance. Mexicans would pay for the wall, but only Mexicans who violate U.S. immigration laws would pay.
Trump acts like a tin-pot dictator and we need to treat him as such. Distract him with silliness, mollify him with cookies, while the rest of the USA needs to get down to serious business.
The Trump White House is pumping Soviet style diktats at an alarming rate. They same declarations, however, may require funding from Congress. Building a wall or imposing tariffs are an example. He could impose some tariffs due to 'national emergencies" or "times of war", both of which are a stretch of the imagination with an economy that has grown since Obama took office and a war machine that has also shrunk during the last administration.
He has tremendous power, but it is not unlimited. We need to hold him accountable.
The Trump White House is pumping Soviet style diktats at an alarming rate. They same declarations, however, may require funding from Congress. Building a wall or imposing tariffs are an example. He could impose some tariffs due to 'national emergencies" or "times of war", both of which are a stretch of the imagination with an economy that has grown since Obama took office and a war machine that has also shrunk during the last administration.
He has tremendous power, but it is not unlimited. We need to hold him accountable.
1
I'm sure MX is the one with most to lose
1
Its like a full blown dictatorship now. Make other country pay for the stupid wall. I mean, US always tells the world what to do and how to live, but excuse me, like this, so blatantly. This is something really.
2
Right from the outset, the notion of Mexico paying for the wall was nonsense. Did the media challenge that notion? No. They gave Trump a pass.
Trump from the start was acting like a bully and denigrating the entire nationality of Mexico. Only Vincente Fox told him where to go and it was graphic in nature.
If you decide you want a fence between you and your neighbor's house, you have two choices. Pay for it yourself, or convince your neighbor about the mutual benefits if they both share the cost. You don't bully him.
Trump sees himself as a John Wayne tough guy. He's a dangerous character and we're stuck with this jerk.
Trump from the start was acting like a bully and denigrating the entire nationality of Mexico. Only Vincente Fox told him where to go and it was graphic in nature.
If you decide you want a fence between you and your neighbor's house, you have two choices. Pay for it yourself, or convince your neighbor about the mutual benefits if they both share the cost. You don't bully him.
Trump sees himself as a John Wayne tough guy. He's a dangerous character and we're stuck with this jerk.
2
Instead of having taxpayers--especially those who did not vote for him--pay for the ridiculous wall, the President should use all the money he has avoided paying in taxes over the years to pay for the construction. If there is a shortfall, he could set up a fund for all those who support the idea, especially in Congress, to contribute and make up the difference.
1
So his plan to pay for the wall is to raise taxes on Americans. That doesn't seem very Republican.
Yes! I love Trump! This is Tremendous! Really big, I tell you, really big. Bring back the good ol' American manufacturing jobs!!!
I thought Republicans will be all over this saying how great Trump is and telling everyone to give him a chance. Let's TRY the 20% import tax! Close the borders, don't need to do business with anyone else in the world. Make America Great Again...ALONE!!! Yay!!
I thought Republicans will be all over this saying how great Trump is and telling everyone to give him a chance. Let's TRY the 20% import tax! Close the borders, don't need to do business with anyone else in the world. Make America Great Again...ALONE!!! Yay!!
1
The wall is stupid but the import tax is not. I am still hopeful that something good might come out of this pathological liar.
2
Whose going to pay for the wall? The American consumer is going to pay for the wall. Thanks, red-staters. You really picked a fool to run the country and it is going to hurt you more than you realized.
5
I'm struck by how bored Trump appears to be in photo after photo of him seated behind an empty desk, thumbs poised to twirl. No books, no reading material, no signifiers of deep thought or hard work. A portrait of vacancy.
5
What me worry?
2
ZERO is the amount of tax revenue that would be raised with a 20% tax increase on Mexican imports. Prices of Mexican imports go up, purchases of those goods go down.
2
i know this has been pointed out in other comments but it bears repeating: the US consumer will pay the 20% burden not mexico. my guess is that as this idiot and the rest of the republicans retreat from or repulse the rest of the world? the rest of the world will go about it's business without us...... making things REALLY difficult here at home.
3
What are we trading now? Years ago there was the spice trade. If you wanted spices from the topics and you lived in England you had to trade for them. The spices just didn't grow in England. Now what are we trading? Mostly its labor. What does Mexico and China have that we don't? Mostly cheap unregulated labor. The US won't allow the horrible labor condition here in the US so the companies move the operations where the labor is almost slavery. I don't feel that what we have is trade anymore. It is insidious.
It's the blind leading the blind. Trump's staff is woefully uninformed and inexperienced. They've demonstrated a pattern of floating whatever's on the top of their minds, which Trump heartily endorses, and then retracts or fudges when these cockamamie ideas hit reality. Please. please, please, send thes people away.
4
Would be any, or many, GOP lawmarkers in the Congress whith enough courage to stand up and shout: "No more of this shame Mr. President. This is America, not your company!"
3
Does anyone else see the United States sparring out of control as being run by megalomaniac madman and GOP opportunists that will do anything to hurt the American public?
How much more is it going to take before the American public stands up to this madman?
How much more is it going to take before the American public stands up to this madman?
3
So this import tax would be put on all imports? How does that square with free trade treaties?
Also, if this tax is the solution for paying for the wall, we are essentially saying importers and U.S. consumers are paying for the wall, not Mexico.
Also, if this tax is the solution for paying for the wall, we are essentially saying importers and U.S. consumers are paying for the wall, not Mexico.
1
Who will be Trump's next target of disparagement tweets? Canada? I'm sure The Donald can think of something nasty to say about Canadians: universal health care, legal unrestricted abortion, a charismatic likable Prime Minister.
3
Welcome to the delusional world of Trump and his court. Don't forget the Republicans lead both houses. Is there an impeachment clause stating if we believe the President is no longer in his right mind can we impeach him? Obviously it is too early yet to ask this question. Let's see, wait and see, let's give the Congress a chance to act. After all, Mexico is just a "small" country, wait till he ticks off a more substantial country. Have we become delusional as well?
2
Trump Presidency will be fraught with confusion throughout and will end with failure - much like whatever endeavors he has taken up.
Nothing surprsing here.
Nothing surprsing here.
2
If we could only see Donald Trump's federal income tax returns and personal and corporate business records then we could evaluate and understand his prime motivation for this needless inane ignorant fight with Mexico.
Perhaps Vladimir Putin and his Russian GRU and FSB intelligence services could again help the American people out in that regard by hacking and disclosing once again. Or FBI Director Jim Comey? Or Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu?
Perhaps Vladimir Putin and his Russian GRU and FSB intelligence services could again help the American people out in that regard by hacking and disclosing once again. Or FBI Director Jim Comey? Or Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu?
4
It's going to be a bull in the china shop for four more years. (And the double entendre on "bull" is deliberate.) Watch out for breaking glass.
1
It's the Smoot-Hawley tariff act all over again.
Clutches brow.
Clutches brow.
1
He's playing everyone again..the press is so easy they fall for the very same trick over and over again. Its actually very sad. He throws a shiny ball into the room the press and the rabid dogs go running over and than he goes in another direction leaving you guys wondering what happened. Its so easy, and he gets to do what he wants as you guys sniff around this shiny ball. How pitiful. And how simple this crowd is..You want to know what he's really going to do boys and girls...its right in front of your eyes and it will help US workers and the Mexicans will pay for the wall cause they will have no choice. Oh so simple..but that shiny ball ...
Bill Clinton started NAFTA twenty years ago saying it would be good for the country.
NAFTA did not help the worker in the mid-west.
The economy in the mid-west cost Hillary the election for President.
At this point now, all solutions will cost the country something. If NAFTA was never started things would be more expensive. Having fuller employment in the mid-west will cost the country more.
Is it worth it, yes. Are we to be always completely globalized to get the absolute lowest labor costs? There has to be a balance, and this time I'm with my fellow Americans, who yes, voted for Trump, in the mid-west. There, I said it.
NAFTA did not help the worker in the mid-west.
The economy in the mid-west cost Hillary the election for President.
At this point now, all solutions will cost the country something. If NAFTA was never started things would be more expensive. Having fuller employment in the mid-west will cost the country more.
Is it worth it, yes. Are we to be always completely globalized to get the absolute lowest labor costs? There has to be a balance, and this time I'm with my fellow Americans, who yes, voted for Trump, in the mid-west. There, I said it.
1
It is an inescapable imperative that the Democrats win back the Senate. This president is putting our country on a runaway train to disaster. The Republicans have adopted a " party before country " strategy and apparently lack the intestinal fortitude to exercise their authority and draft The Articles of Impeachment. They know full well what he is up to and are too afraid to speak out. How can they call themselves " conservatives " and allow a punitive tax to be imposed on the American People?
The Constitution is designed to keep a balance between the three branches of government.
Right now, the Legislative Branch is lame and ineffective against The Executive.
The Constitution is designed to keep a balance between the three branches of government.
Right now, the Legislative Branch is lame and ineffective against The Executive.
2
Trump again displays his lack of knowledge about a very important aspect of how laws work. In this case the issue of Import taxes or tariffs. An import tax or tariff is paid by the importer not the country where the product is shipped from. There for the cost of the tariff is attached to the importers overhead and ultimately to the price paid by the consumer. Can someone teach this guy something? Trumps problem is he lives in an alt-reality world. And no Bannon I won't shut up and neither will the press. This isn't Russia yet!
2
I see that an antipodean manufacturer of healthcare equipment, which manufactures 30% of its product in Mexico and 70% at home (and exports 40% to North America) is now contemplating selling its home production to the US and its Mexican production globally, thus circumventing the 20% border tax.
That will work until Trump comes after them in a fit of rage and vengeance and, by virtue of the logic of 'alternative facts', 'deems' the home production actually to have taken place in Mexico. I'm not joking!
That will work until Trump comes after them in a fit of rage and vengeance and, by virtue of the logic of 'alternative facts', 'deems' the home production actually to have taken place in Mexico. I'm not joking!
The reckless abandon this administration has taken with our friendly neighbor is startling. Is this part of "the Art of the Deal"? Oh and btw, what a great way to cut the Corporate Tax rate .... have the working class pay for it through higher retail prices.
3
Charge a fee for every border crossing, going both ways. $2.00 per person walking. $10 per car plus $1.00 per person riding in the car. $25.00 per truck plus $10.00 per ton. Busses $50.00 plus $1.00 per person. Passenger planes $100.00 per plane plus $2.00 per person. Luxury cruise ships $500.00 per ship plus $10.00 per person. And so on. It would add up fast and pay for a lot of beautiful wall.
Yesterday a friend who is very conservative/libertarian said to me in words, "I was the most anti-Trump guy. But, now the media has actually put me on his side."
I was a liberal as a kid and now am very moderate for decades - don't like either side and can barely stand to vote for a Dem or Rep. But, I find myself rooting for Trump even though I still don't think a lot of him and just want to give him a chance. Why? Again, the non-stop assault on everything he says or does by the media. And sadly, this site, my go to paper/site for over 50 years, - is the leader.
And other friends of mine and just people I've met, have said similar things. It started during the election, but now, when they feel defeated and probably humiliated, they have ratcheted it up to the nth degree.
A 20 percent tax import tax does not sound like a good idea to me. It may be, for Trump, a negotiating ploy. So might the wall, which I don't think was a good idea. The reason Bannon said "shut up," is because it seems like the media is determined not only to take every side against Trump but to warn anyone he might be trying to negotiate with.
Most of us are still shocked he won. But, a good part of the reason he did is not just that people are tired of the same old politics, political correctness and of being called a racist just because they want all people treated the same, but also because of the hysteria of the media. I no longer care what the media or polls say.
I was a liberal as a kid and now am very moderate for decades - don't like either side and can barely stand to vote for a Dem or Rep. But, I find myself rooting for Trump even though I still don't think a lot of him and just want to give him a chance. Why? Again, the non-stop assault on everything he says or does by the media. And sadly, this site, my go to paper/site for over 50 years, - is the leader.
And other friends of mine and just people I've met, have said similar things. It started during the election, but now, when they feel defeated and probably humiliated, they have ratcheted it up to the nth degree.
A 20 percent tax import tax does not sound like a good idea to me. It may be, for Trump, a negotiating ploy. So might the wall, which I don't think was a good idea. The reason Bannon said "shut up," is because it seems like the media is determined not only to take every side against Trump but to warn anyone he might be trying to negotiate with.
Most of us are still shocked he won. But, a good part of the reason he did is not just that people are tired of the same old politics, political correctness and of being called a racist just because they want all people treated the same, but also because of the hysteria of the media. I no longer care what the media or polls say.
2
Interesting. So you and your friend don't make decisions based on facts and evidence, you make decisions based on childish impulses and feelings?
BTW, Republicans don't want all people treated the same, they want to deny some people the right to vote, others the right to a living wage, still others the right to make their own health care decisions or marry the person they love. You really need to start paying attention.
BTW, Republicans don't want all people treated the same, they want to deny some people the right to vote, others the right to a living wage, still others the right to make their own health care decisions or marry the person they love. You really need to start paying attention.
Well said. The left wing doesn't seem to realize that the end result of it's temper tantrum is likely a 60+ GOP majority in the Senate come 2018 and a second Trump term in 2020. I'm not overly fond of the GOP and disagree with a lot of their platform, but the radical left turn the Democrats have taken on social policy, coupled with their anti US based manufacturing fiscal policy, and hate America first foreign policy makes them look far worse. That they and this paper choose to degenerate and shame their opponents makes them even harder to stomach.
Time to remember the old saying: "Poor Mexico, so far from God and so close to the United States."
The chaos and confusion within the Trump government in handling this and many other insane Trumpian initiatives is just more evidence that the inmates are in charge of the asylum.
The chaos and confusion within the Trump government in handling this and many other insane Trumpian initiatives is just more evidence that the inmates are in charge of the asylum.
2
Utter nonsense. The deplorables will cost us all more money for produce that comes from Mexico. And, the stupid wall will never be built. Frankly, Mexico and Canada should build walls to keep us from exiting this third world country.
2
Yes, Trump is bumbling through his photo ops while Spicer tries to decipher what the heck to say to us. But - like that increased deficit that Obama gets blamed for - the real culprits here are our Republican Congress. Unlike Trump, Ryan and McConnell actually know better. Sad.
2
Those alternative facts about Republican economic proposals will surely "make America (--insert your own term here--) again." That biggest, most expensive and beloved wall should also be festooned with busts of our fearless leader, serving as a reminder of his huge greatness.
We can hardly wait to hear the details of what replaces Obamacare and how that will be funded. Shouldn't we demand Mexico pay for our health care as well? Or can we humiliate Canada into submission since they now owe us bigly for allowing their toxic tar sands oil, that nobody wants or needs, to flow across our pristine wilderness? TrumpCare should be really special since we know Congressional Republicans have been working on the best possible plan for nearly seven years when they weren't voting to repeal ObamaCare several dozen symbolic times.
My hope is that Americans who voted for Trump will experience a lifetime of Donald Trump gifts consequential of his presidency.
We can hardly wait to hear the details of what replaces Obamacare and how that will be funded. Shouldn't we demand Mexico pay for our health care as well? Or can we humiliate Canada into submission since they now owe us bigly for allowing their toxic tar sands oil, that nobody wants or needs, to flow across our pristine wilderness? TrumpCare should be really special since we know Congressional Republicans have been working on the best possible plan for nearly seven years when they weren't voting to repeal ObamaCare several dozen symbolic times.
My hope is that Americans who voted for Trump will experience a lifetime of Donald Trump gifts consequential of his presidency.
5
Good God, give us Yahya Jammeh for President! He needs a new job.
Border tax: Suggestion - start low, and increase by 1% every month.
On everything, everything minus raw materials and foods, or selective "autos and auto parts", f. ex. 10% initially, + 1% every 1st of month.
This has benefits: First, there will be presseure to increase imports, as people rush to import before next tax increase - good, money in the box.
"Tax burden" will initially be on importers/consumers, but on "next order" seller will be pressured to lower price, thus a distribution of the tax.
And at the same time pressure will steadily increase to find long term alternative - namely home US production. Good, that is also what's desired.
No top rate needs to be announced, president has authority to say stop. One year from now 22% - two years 34%, etc.
Precise rates can be adjusted to trade deficit quaterly - Mexico retaliates - they just drive up rates..
Ought to be applied also to China imports - same thing - find local US alternatives, and gives time to build factories.
On everything, everything minus raw materials and foods, or selective "autos and auto parts", f. ex. 10% initially, + 1% every 1st of month.
This has benefits: First, there will be presseure to increase imports, as people rush to import before next tax increase - good, money in the box.
"Tax burden" will initially be on importers/consumers, but on "next order" seller will be pressured to lower price, thus a distribution of the tax.
And at the same time pressure will steadily increase to find long term alternative - namely home US production. Good, that is also what's desired.
No top rate needs to be announced, president has authority to say stop. One year from now 22% - two years 34%, etc.
Precise rates can be adjusted to trade deficit quaterly - Mexico retaliates - they just drive up rates..
Ought to be applied also to China imports - same thing - find local US alternatives, and gives time to build factories.
When will someone finally speak up, his senior staff SUCKS!!! As an entity they are failing him in the same manner that they troubled his campaign. There are just too many issues and unnecessary problems that have no place in the execution of what Donald Trump is trying to do. They have one responsibility, to protect the president from those things that threaten to sabotage his administration. It’s a science and the “high-paid” scientists are not doing their job. We have neither the time nor reason to entertain anymore of this amateurism. Do your job. Because there are unemployed individuals in the inner city who can’t keep bailing you out . . .
ALL of the ideas are ridiculous! The WALL is ridiculous! I wonder if DJT would have received the votes he did if he had explained that "Mexico paying" Really meant that his plan for where to get the money for his beautiful" wall would again come from the least financially secure Americans because we are the ones who would have to bear the increased costs of Mexican products. One must really wonder why anyone would think he was such a good businessman when his art of the deal was always using someone else's investment in his "great" projects so he could walk away with a profit skimmed off the top when they went bankrupt. One might also remember that he has often used foreign workers, has his and Invanka's products manufactured overseas, manufacturing is not coming back to America, tho if it does, the worker bee jobs will be done by robots, and why anyone would want to return to the coal mines when this administration wants to further gut regulations protecting businesses rather than people is beyond me. All of the confusion is part of the game to keep everyone off balance while we are still the targets of the greed of capitalists who have no moral compass. Remember that DJT often reaffirms that one does not telegraph one's intentions to the enemy, and while he says "love ya", he sees us as an enemy to be vanquished because he needs that power rush -- and wouldn't mind making a bundle on the way. o
If Trump and his followers believe that building his wall will stop the bad hombres and the flow of drugs and illegals into the US, he should take a lesson from the Great Chinese Wall and the wall and other deterrents that Israel built between Gaza strip and Egypt before giving up and abandoning the strip. The Palestinians dug hundreds of tunnels under and the wall in which good and bad guys moved freely, arms and cash flowed in and out, consumer goods, food products, fuel, cars and even live cows and sheep. Whatever Israel did we couldn't stop the flow. As soon as one tunnel was destroyed 10 others were dug within days, making the Palestinians probably the best contraband tunnel diggers in the world.
And in Gaza we had a wall only a few kilometer long. Now show us how you protect a wall that is thousands of kilometers long. They will dig, they will climb, they will fly over or simply bypass the wall by penetrating through the sea at the ends of it. Desperate people, criminals and profiteers are much smarter then the present clumsy-minded president and his bunch of alternative truth sellers.
And in Gaza we had a wall only a few kilometer long. Now show us how you protect a wall that is thousands of kilometers long. They will dig, they will climb, they will fly over or simply bypass the wall by penetrating through the sea at the ends of it. Desperate people, criminals and profiteers are much smarter then the present clumsy-minded president and his bunch of alternative truth sellers.
1
The idea behind this proposed tariff is that it is not at all directed at Americans and Trump has no intention of actually enacting it. The idea is that Mexico should calculate whether they have more to lose by allowing the tariff to be imposed or by paying for the wall, and Trump's bet is that since for Mexico paying for the wall is the lesser of two evils they will come running back to Trump and tell him that they decided to pay for the wall after all. This is the idea behind the proposal.
And it is precisely the fact that Americans are taking this proposal seriously that works to Trump's advantage, because Mexico now views this proposal as something serious and not merely a ploy to get them to pay for the wall, in which case they may call his bluff.
It is actually amazing that, coming from Trump, Americans don't see right through this proposal and understand that Trump's sole objective with it is as a negotiating ploy to get his way with Mexico to pay for the wall.
And it is precisely the fact that Americans are taking this proposal seriously that works to Trump's advantage, because Mexico now views this proposal as something serious and not merely a ploy to get them to pay for the wall, in which case they may call his bluff.
It is actually amazing that, coming from Trump, Americans don't see right through this proposal and understand that Trump's sole objective with it is as a negotiating ploy to get his way with Mexico to pay for the wall.
How did we get conned into imagining that the Government is a business?! Government is NOT a business and should not be run like one.
Most of the values that make life worth living have nothing to do with wealth.
Most of the values that make life worth living have nothing to do with wealth.
4
Best first week in office ever! You go Mr. Trump.
3
And no doubt Putin is delighted to see the breakdown in the relation between the U.S. and its next-door neigbor and major trading partner, and the diplomatic and economic chaos it is causing.
4
But if Mexico truly doesn't want a wall, and considers such a border wall the kind of divisiveness that they ethically denounce....how to explain that imposing wall they built along their southern border to deter immigrants from central and South America?
I don't support the building of a wall, or any of this chaos we're currently enduring, but for some reason gander refuses to meet goose. Pot doesn't recognize kettle. And the whole thing Quacks me up, honestly...The Donald doesn't seem to know quite what he's doing, or about to do.
I don't support the building of a wall, or any of this chaos we're currently enduring, but for some reason gander refuses to meet goose. Pot doesn't recognize kettle. And the whole thing Quacks me up, honestly...The Donald doesn't seem to know quite what he's doing, or about to do.
1
Who is getting the contract for the wall? Who is going to profit the most from this. If it ends up being a fence instead of wall, is really going to make a difference? Wish this wasn't happening.
3
Just another stupid campaign promise that cannot be met in the manner described. This amateur wants to blow up trade relations and he is going to damage both buyers and sellers on both sides of the border.
3
The Times and the rest of the frenzied Left STILL don't get it. They still take Trump literally. But now they must also take him seriously as well—hence the frenzy.
(Admittedly, 140-character-max policy pronouncements don't help matters: There is no room for nuance.)
(Admittedly, 140-character-max policy pronouncements don't help matters: There is no room for nuance.)
I'm so sick and tired of this guy and he's only been president for a matter of hours.
5
The Trump economic strategy for America:
Plan A: Start a trade war.
Plan B: Start another trade war.
Plan C: Start yet another trade war.
Plan D -- after America falls into the inevitable depression, Trump and his supporters having absolutely no knowledge of the events of 1929: blame Obama.
Plan A: Start a trade war.
Plan B: Start another trade war.
Plan C: Start yet another trade war.
Plan D -- after America falls into the inevitable depression, Trump and his supporters having absolutely no knowledge of the events of 1929: blame Obama.
6
Apparently, most of you still don't get it. The only way to have more Americans working in manufacturing, with at least moderate wage jobs in the US (if you have a nationalist view)--or--raise wages and improve working conditions overseas, which in turn would make US workers more competitive (if you have a globalist view) is to raise prices across the board. So, yes, we will pay more. And don't think that businesses can simply reduce their ever-maligned profit. Except for luxury goods, including broad market luxuries (Apple, looking at you here), most industries and companies have single digit net profit margins.
So in the short term, tariffs would be disruptive but effective, at least in changing the bias for sourcing goods. In the longer term, tariffs create their own market distortions. So how about a "temporary" import tax with specific trade or employment goals?
So in the short term, tariffs would be disruptive but effective, at least in changing the bias for sourcing goods. In the longer term, tariffs create their own market distortions. So how about a "temporary" import tax with specific trade or employment goals?
1
Gonna be a major run on foreign goods now. So all this amazeballs economics will boost foreign companies. Nothing like sowing a panic to benefit foreign companies. Nice strategy!
1
I must have missed the following headlines over the past 8 years:
"Tensions with Israel soar!"
"Tensions with Russia soar!"
"Tensions with China soar!"
"Tensions with Egypt soar!"
Or maybe I didn't?
"Tensions with Israel soar!"
"Tensions with Russia soar!"
"Tensions with China soar!"
"Tensions with Egypt soar!"
Or maybe I didn't?
No tax plan should go ahead without first seeing Trump's returns.
2
How much do we know about Donald Trump's past?
Donald Trump must release his tax returns and every American should demand that he make good on this campaign promise. Copy this appeal and spread it to all Americans, young and old. This is the link to the White House petition requesting release of Donald Trump's tax returns which has broken records with its response rate:
https://petitions.whitehouse.gov/petition/immediately-release-donald-tru...
Please sign and distribute.
Donald Trump must release his tax returns and every American should demand that he make good on this campaign promise. Copy this appeal and spread it to all Americans, young and old. This is the link to the White House petition requesting release of Donald Trump's tax returns which has broken records with its response rate:
https://petitions.whitehouse.gov/petition/immediately-release-donald-tru...
Please sign and distribute.
2
Trump voters will get hurt again. 20% price increase will not even touch mostly wealthy democratic voters on coasts. Losers in heartland will need to skip meals. Jobs not coming back, expenses going up, losing medical insurance..
2
A suggestion for DT, the real problem to concentrate on is the flow of heroin into the US and how to stop it. Mexico is a corrupt country from the top down makng heroin for the market here is an industry in labs all over Mexico with the consent of local and on up officials thru pay offs. A wall and border patrols air and ground have not curtailed this huge problem. There needs to be a big program agreed upon between both countries to slot this drug trade. It would make much more sense to pressure the president to work a lot harder on corruption and drug industry in his country.
1
Hilary called it. He's Putin's puppet --yesterday was a page out right out of Putin's playbook. Read further and you will notice chapters on how to spread lies i.e., "alternative facts", bully weaker governments, imprison your political opponents, spread confusion and fear, and undermine democracies.
A big THANK YOU to the supporters of Chancellor/Comrade/ King Trump.
A big THANK YOU to the supporters of Chancellor/Comrade/ King Trump.
2
Trump has already backed off the idiotic tariff idea. tactic: say something totally outrageous, then when you announce else something stupid (but less stupid), you sound reasonable? how has he ever done business, if his opening gambit is a threat?
1
To say that tensions soar is a little over the top. Trump has stated his position in beginning the negotiation...now its Mexico's move...Lets wait and see what happens before we go off half cocked and irrational.
I have to admit, I have always been a little amused by the big deal being made out of Trumps's Wall. I understand people who object to the absurd cost, but I don't understand the two sides of the argument with respect to immigration itself. The US already tries to secure the border in many places, often with fences, walls, and armed border patrols.
The Right treats a more continuous wall as a great new revolutionary concept, as though they are oblivious to the fact that we already try to secure the border in many places. The Left treats the wall like an awful revolutionary concept, as though they believe we currently have an open border. Meanwhile, President Obama strongly supported border security, and deported more illegal immigrants than any previous president. This entire public argument is very surreal to me.
The Right treats a more continuous wall as a great new revolutionary concept, as though they are oblivious to the fact that we already try to secure the border in many places. The Left treats the wall like an awful revolutionary concept, as though they believe we currently have an open border. Meanwhile, President Obama strongly supported border security, and deported more illegal immigrants than any previous president. This entire public argument is very surreal to me.
1
With this knee-jerk, shoot-from-the-hip, president, get used to the word "erupted"! At least until the Republicans decide to put country before party!
2
Not one week in office and already in a war of words with our neighbor Mexico. I]We need a President capable of more than Tweeting.
2
I own a winter home in Mexico. The reason that anything here that is imported from the US is so expensive here is that all imported goods from the US are subject to a 20% import tax + 16% sales tax (standard on all purchases). Can a rational adult please explain why the US imposing the same import tax on Mexican goods is somehow provocative or evil?
The middle class and poor consumer will pay for the wall because the tax at the border will be passed on to buyers. This will not hurt Mexico and Mexico will never pay for the wall.
To all Trump supporters: A 20% tax on goods is a loss of 20% of your income. Is this what you voted for?
To all Trump supporters: A 20% tax on goods is a loss of 20% of your income. Is this what you voted for?
And America's withdrawal from the world stage truly begins. It would frankly serve us right if Mexico aligned with Latin America, Canada, and China's trade group and left us isolated.
1
Since they're not actually going after Employers, they could save around 50% (Billions) on the Wall if they use Anti-Union, Illegal Immigrant Labor.
1
. . Not to mention the cost of food when a large percentage of our migrant labor is deported or "self-deports" (which isn't sounding as ridiculous as it once did). There are still lots of crops that must be hand-picked, and I can gaurantee you there won't be a rush of Trump supporters lasting more than a couple of days in those jobs.
Domestic produce prices will spike too.
Domestic produce prices will spike too.
One state is very dependent on trade with Mexico; Mexican trade compromises 20% of the state economy and such a tax could send that state into deep recession. California? No. Texas.
Irony, how sweet it can be.
Irony, how sweet it can be.
Doubleplusgood tax! Upfront increase in the defense budget resolution to get the downpayment for the wall taken care of; tax number 1. Tariffs on all the imported goods from Mexico, passed onto consumers; tax number 2. All to pay for a monument to idiocy. At least when Hoover built a wall to keep out the Colorado river it started generating something of value. Perhaps the "big ladder" lobby sees an opportunity on their future untaxed exports to Mexico.
Years of diplomacy wrecked by an egomaniacal sociopath. This is not about the United States. This is all about trump.
1
Fruitless is right, President Trump. We get a lot of fruit and veg from Mexico. And you'd know that if you'd ever been in a supermarket.
Has it occurred to anyone that, employing the same kind of logic that President Featherhead uses to justify making Mexico pay for a wall, Mexico could demand that the U.S. pay Mexico a hundred bazillion dollars for the damage that the U.S.'s appetite for illegal drugs has done to Mexico?
1
Many of Trump's supporters believe that Mexico and its people would be paying this. Their ignorance of how the economy (and our political system) works is astounding.
1
In addition to refusing to release his tax returns, Trump has refused to release his college transcripts. We can only assume he failed to pass Macro Economics 101.
5
What if we could somehow get a hold of the cash that whirls around the drug and people smugglers? That would be a great source of funds.
1
Has it ever occurred to Mr. Trump to think before he speaks? This lashing out at everyone is really dangerous on so many levels, not just economically. Boy do I miss the dignity and restraint of the Obama administration. These people have no class.
5
If it hasn't occurred to him in the past 50+yrs and he managed to become POTUS,..it ain't happening now.
IOWs, get used to the Chaos. I have.
IOWs, get used to the Chaos. I have.
1
Donald Trump and the Republicans don't care if a wall is built. They want to distract us from their real, well planned, attack on health care, racial justice, consumer protection, the environment, etc. etc. etc.
4
Don't forget "rebuilding our military". Again, we now outspend the next 9 countries in the world COMBINED on defense. That is empire level spending, not "defending the U.S. Constitution".
We need to CUT defense spending and move the resources to infrastructure repair and rebuilding. This "wall building" is insane. Insane.
We need to CUT defense spending and move the resources to infrastructure repair and rebuilding. This "wall building" is insane. Insane.
Trump may have all the best words but clearly "dignity" is not one of them. Conducting matters of state on Twitter? Idiocracy.
2
Caterpillar, Chrysler, Stanley Black & Decker and Callaway Golf to name a few --must certainly be rethinking their market strategy with this news.... With the US representing approximately 14% of Mexico's exports the ones who will really be paying for this wall are the American consumers through higher prices and through taxes when we need to send through another appropriation bill because the so called "import tax" does not generate enough revenue with expediency.
1
Psychopathology 101. Creating chaos is a standard technique of psychopaths like Trump. Chaos bewilders the rest of us. While we scurry to make sense of nonsense, the psychopath steals your wallet. Do not listen to the chaotic uproar of Trump (Spicer, Bannon and his cronies). Instead continue on the path toward Trump's impeachment.
5
Trump told us Mexico will pay for it.I do not want to pay for a wall that is useless, no economic benefit and super expensive. Hey, Trump voter out there, you guys should pick up the taps. You voted for him, he is yours, all yours.
3
China imposes a tariff on goods imported from the US, both for individuals and commercial entities. So does Mexico. They also have rules that require some percentage of domestic ownership for companies manufacturing there. So Ford has to have a Chinese partner to build cars in China. Kia and Hyundai don't have to do this in the US.
Why? Because the US is rich and they are not? Because our workers can sit home idle and watch football, while the fat cats get richer on cheap overseas labor?
Why? Because the US is rich and they are not? Because our workers can sit home idle and watch football, while the fat cats get richer on cheap overseas labor?
1
In his first week in office, Trump has proven to be even worse than I ever could have imagined, and I have a pretty vivid imagination. His "Administration" is a runaway train, and it is absolutely shocking that the Republicans in Congress are doing nothing to pull the brake.
As far as that goes, where are the Democrats? While my phone is still ringing several times a week with robocalls blaring "THIS IS DONALD TRUMP . . . " (at which instant I slam the phone down), there seems to be no messaging from the Democrats. Or let's put it this way, whatever the Democrats are doing to try to oppose this insanity isn't getting any coverage from The New York Times or The Washington Post.
As far as that goes, where are the Democrats? While my phone is still ringing several times a week with robocalls blaring "THIS IS DONALD TRUMP . . . " (at which instant I slam the phone down), there seems to be no messaging from the Democrats. Or let's put it this way, whatever the Democrats are doing to try to oppose this insanity isn't getting any coverage from The New York Times or The Washington Post.
4
You know who's thrilled about all this instability Trump is creating in our economy? Putin. He can't wait to throw Mexico a life line. Trump is a Russian secret squirrel.
4
If ever there was a one percenter. Taxes for others but not him. The historians will have fun exploring how it came to be that in the early 21st century, the working people of America voted against their own interests. Provided Biggest Brother doesn't do away with the books after he's done with the press. Alternative facts and all.
I do know some people who voted for him who are growing quiet. Doesn't help!
I do know some people who voted for him who are growing quiet. Doesn't help!
1
There is the super-wimp way to do this: tax US consumers.
There is the put your money where your mouth is way: build the wall and send Mexico the bill. It seems DT prefers the super-wimp approach.
Am I surprised?
There is the put your money where your mouth is way: build the wall and send Mexico the bill. It seems DT prefers the super-wimp approach.
Am I surprised?
2
Amongst the commenters, I see the word 'obsession' many times. It is a correct analysis. This man, this "President", is obsessed with many things, shiny objects being but one. Mr. Trump sweats the small stuff, President Pence runs the country. What could go wrong?
2
Is this even legal by WTO regulations?
Also, aren't we the ones paying this tax?
So, I guess what he meant to say during the campaign is "we will build a wall that most of you don't want and make YOU pay for it."
Also, aren't we the ones paying this tax?
So, I guess what he meant to say during the campaign is "we will build a wall that most of you don't want and make YOU pay for it."
1
My alarm and disgust over Trump's antics grows by the second! I for one am not going to pay my precious tax dollars to build a wall or for a nonsensical investigation into the voter fraud of three to five million 'illegals'. That percentage of my tax bill will go into an escrow account. I am not afraid of you, Mr. Trump! The non-violent rebellion has begun.....
2
Trumps job, is to keep uneducated American's occupied with senseless bickering all the while Congress passes laws which all will benefit the rich class of America and to do that your tax money, and never forget it is your tax money, is taken away from programs that were designed to improve your lives so that the rich class can use it for enriching themselves. The rich class is the Oligarchy spoke of by Ralph Nader, Noam Chomsky, prove your intelligent and focus on the elephant in the house, the Oligarchy.
2
We charge all our citizens an extra 20% for goods from mexico, and throw the money away to make a point.
Only a spoiled shallow rich person would do that.
Only a spoiled shallow rich person would do that.
1
I think that the biggest backdrop on "the wall" is if you throw enough against it, sooner or later something will stick. Amateurs!!!
2
Eventually, attention will need to be turned to the other side of the coin: What might Mexico do to retaliate?
Will Mexico end its cooperation in the war on drugs? Will they come to some sort of settlement with drug criminals operating inside its borders? Will they kick all DEA agents out of the country? In retaliation for ending NAFTA, will Mexico cancel its extradition treaty with the United States?
Will they reduce the size of America's diplomatic presence in Mexico? Or refuse to accept the credentials of the new American ambassador? Or maybe even break off all diplomatic relations with the United States?
In the months and years to come, will Mexico now try to negotiate bi-lateral agreements with China and Russia? Maybe some kind of military cooperation agreement that could place hostiles just a few hundred miles from the American boarder?
Will Mexico now try to rally other Spanish speaking countries in Central and South America to form a unified political block that could isolate America economically and politically?
As time goes on, and more of these crazy policies by Trump and his cronies are adopted, will more countries around the world start to disengage politically and economically from the United States?
It would be foolish to think that America can adopt these policies without paying an enormous price, both economically and politically.
Will Mexico end its cooperation in the war on drugs? Will they come to some sort of settlement with drug criminals operating inside its borders? Will they kick all DEA agents out of the country? In retaliation for ending NAFTA, will Mexico cancel its extradition treaty with the United States?
Will they reduce the size of America's diplomatic presence in Mexico? Or refuse to accept the credentials of the new American ambassador? Or maybe even break off all diplomatic relations with the United States?
In the months and years to come, will Mexico now try to negotiate bi-lateral agreements with China and Russia? Maybe some kind of military cooperation agreement that could place hostiles just a few hundred miles from the American boarder?
Will Mexico now try to rally other Spanish speaking countries in Central and South America to form a unified political block that could isolate America economically and politically?
As time goes on, and more of these crazy policies by Trump and his cronies are adopted, will more countries around the world start to disengage politically and economically from the United States?
It would be foolish to think that America can adopt these policies without paying an enormous price, both economically and politically.
59
I have a suggestion... Liquidate your assets Mr Trump and you pay for the wall...
5
So Mexico will pay for the border fence by making us pay an import tax on products from Mexico? "Truthiness" is once again a relevant word. I guess it never left. I am pretty amazed at the rabid support for a man (Trump) who repeatedly lies, day after day, and exhibits no self-control in tweeting, opining, lying. spinning, preening, and demanding his Cabinet and press secretary behave as if they are contestants on The Apprentice hoping not to be fired this week. Let's hope Putin and Trump don't get into a cockfight. We know a lot more about Trump and Putin and hope to soon get to covering who this man actually is. It is astounding but true that the same Illuminati "Player" plays the role of both Trump and Putin. This is true, please see our blog generally to understand who the Illuminati really is, and what their Game is all about. The Player who poses as Trump and Putin is now scoring double World Leader points in their ongoing Illuminati Card Game, which resembles Chess or the board game Risk. The players do not care at all about the welfare of the human race. Not at all. We have much more to worry about than just an economic apocalypse.
Sometimes I do wish that there were some way a grown-up person could stand on a roof-top with a bull-horn and shout to the world "I TOLD YOU SO!".........
3
Casandra feel the same way most of the time.
Let's see; Crash the Economy, check! Reason #37 for impeachment
4
I always admired America for finishing Hitler. Trump destroys everything America stood for Android his supporters are thrilled and in love with his lies. I still hope the better part of the US will stop him. Maybe there are still a few decent Republicans out there.
4
I am really frightened today. If USA treats its friends this way what will happen to those it actually doesn't like such as China, countries in the Middle East and Africa? Is there no control on the laziness and stupidity of the billionaires now running America?
7
"Is there no control on the laziness and stupidity of the billionaires now running America?"
The "control[s]" are Congress, the Courts, and the Voters.
The "control[s]" are Congress, the Courts, and the Voters.
Trump loves China as much as Russia. He's so leveraged in China you could call them teeter tots. He will demand they lower his rates or he will up theirs.
1
Trump has bragged about how he loves to spend OPM - other people's money. In this case it's ours - the American taxpayer. We pay for the construction and then we pay again for his tariff on Mexican goods. That's twice. And all for a campaign maneuver created to appeal to the worst in our citizens.
2
Lying. And lying. And lying. And lying. And lying. And lying. And lying.
2
I hope none of you are surprised by this. Not only did he promise to do these things, he also did a great job showing how little he knew about diplomacy. The fact that anybody thought he would magically be different is shameful.
5
I'm with you Jack.
If anyone is surprised by this chaos, they're either awfully young or just painfully Naive.
If anyone is surprised by this chaos, they're either awfully young or just painfully Naive.
3
So funny to read about Trump. An isolated America will affect US Citizens, something that Trump followers dont seem to understand, they believe they dont need the world, but the world needs them, unrealizing that USA invades other countries for their resources. Trump is a genious, he is paving the way for less taxes for corporations, less regulations and using Mexico as a decoy...unrealizing the americans that he is fooling you all. He is a businessman and he is easing the regulations and eliminating taxes for corporations using a nonsense argument and you all seem to be fooled. Whe he gets out of office his companies will be in so much relief.
1
As usual, it's amateur hour for the GOP. No plan, just confusion. The cowardly GOP congress would gladly play follow the leader, but there is no leader. Just tweets.
2
These policies show that America is losing the capacity for Republican self-government. America is becoming more like an authoritarian regime.
2
Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall. Humpty Dumty had a great fall . All the kings horses and all the men could not put Humpty together again.
Trump seems to be falling apart on the world stage . The good old boy corporate mentality in Washington is not playing out well with trade partners. The leaders of these countries are not as easily persuaded by the spin doctor as Trump supporters who along with all consumers will be paying for The Wall. Mr. Ceo it may be getting a lot harder to hit that billion dollar bonus in the next eight years. The wall is a spin for votes folks Not thought through. Talk is cheaper on the stump than action is in the real world.
Trump and the GOP should get off the wall befor the fall.
Trump seems to be falling apart on the world stage . The good old boy corporate mentality in Washington is not playing out well with trade partners. The leaders of these countries are not as easily persuaded by the spin doctor as Trump supporters who along with all consumers will be paying for The Wall. Mr. Ceo it may be getting a lot harder to hit that billion dollar bonus in the next eight years. The wall is a spin for votes folks Not thought through. Talk is cheaper on the stump than action is in the real world.
Trump and the GOP should get off the wall befor the fall.
Even as Trump has moved aggressively with his fascist agenda, and millions rallied in opposition, congressional democrats have accepted domination and humiliation by the bully.
3
the man is mentally ill. Since the republic has failed, perhaps we can try democracy next.
4
Import duties (taxes) are always paid by the importer, not the exporter. Therefore, a tax on imports from Mexico is not a tax on Mexico, but on the U.S.
2
We are lucky to be bordered by a peaceful southern neighbor. Mexico shields us from some unstable countries, and provides us with inexpensive labor. In essence, Mexico is a friend, and we should honor that friendship. (The biggest problem is our insatiable appetite for drugs, which fuels crime in Mexico while it destroys our own country.) So why do we want to create this wall which will ultimately place a huge burden on American taxpayers, either directly or indirectly through higher prices, and create economic hardship for the people of Mexico.
There is a big problem when somebody so uneducated, unexposed, not well-read, insecure, narcissistic and infantile thinks he is brilliant. What, after all, is a psychopath.
There is a big problem when somebody so uneducated, unexposed, not well-read, insecure, narcissistic and infantile thinks he is brilliant. What, after all, is a psychopath.
2
I now pay Federal, State and Local taxes; Utility, Real Estate, Gasoline, Non-Food Item taxes; Retail and Internet sales taxes; Let me throw in Bridge and Highway Tolls, vehicle registration fees and I can go on. Now I will be expected to pay taxes for a $14 Billion wall and higher prices on Mexican manufactured products to make up for the 20% import tax. If trump’s import tax extends to other countries, we’ll be paying a lot more.
Where does it end?
Where does it end?
2
Let the trade wars begin! The global recession is sure to follow. Can shooting wars be far behind?
2
Copper is due for a comeback, jackets. Too bad exploited Chileans beat the US in production, now. Like Trump's gonna tell Newmont where to dig.
1
What impact will poking Mexico in the eye have on the oil trade between our two countries? Mexico is our fourth largest source of foreign oil. We export more oil products to Mexico than we import.
As susceptible as crude oil prices are to market forces during uncertain times aren't we looking at an orchestration that will result in much higher costs to consumers when filling their gas tanks each week? Thanks Donald!
As susceptible as crude oil prices are to market forces during uncertain times aren't we looking at an orchestration that will result in much higher costs to consumers when filling their gas tanks each week? Thanks Donald!
2
Not mentioned in this article is the fact that a border tax on goods and services of any percentage would be a stark violation of NAFTA, the current provisions of which are still effective until it is either scrapped or renegotiated. Even suggesting such a tax in this context shows that the Trump Administration has no respect for its international contractual obligations, meaning that it is not worth the confidence of other countries and not to be trusted. This will put a significant damper on any future international negotiations involving the United States, because the fundamental basis of international agreements is that once signed, the participants will honour their obligations. The off-hand preparedness of this Administration to chuck its obligations in one important area (viz trade) to secure its objectives in another (viz immigration politics) is yet another example of the ill-conceived and counter-productive wilsomeness of these people to get their way no matter what the moral, practical, legal and strategic implications of their actions down the road. This of course has serious implications for Canada, given the large number of cross border agreements that have served both countries well for the past century or more, be it NAFTA or all the other lesser known ones that could be called into question.
2
This tax proposal is another example of Trump's simplified "solutions" that have not been thought through. Do Trump & his braintrust realize that the tax will ultimately be passed on to American consumers? Or do they think they can slip that fact past us?
Secondly, hurting the Mexican economy will created new incentives for illegal immigration to the US, nullifying any benefits of Trump's ill advised, expensive wall.
Secondly, hurting the Mexican economy will created new incentives for illegal immigration to the US, nullifying any benefits of Trump's ill advised, expensive wall.
2
Trump is making it easy for China and Russia to advance their interests there, as planned. He owes them both a lot of money.
1
It's a shell game. We would end up paying for it anyway in the products we purchase that contain parts made in Mexico.
1
Oh yeah, we're havin' fun now.
2
So now we will have the Great Wall of Trump which will keep out our avocados, tomatoes, and cheap laborers. In case you haven't figured this out already--We all are going to pay for this, including the Mexicans! There is already border security in place. Adios common sense.
2
Imposing a tax would counter the very reason for overseas outsourcing: lower consumer prices at home. And there is an implicit assumption that Mexico won't just sell its stuff someplace else, making those tax revenues uncertain. And spending that money to keep people out diverts it from the poor people who voted for The Donald. And since automation is his supporters worst, they will fair worse in the long run. Recovery from the 2008 recession was not strong. So this isn't looking good.
China is dancing in the streets.
2
I want the " buffet of options" that gets rid of trump along with the other liars.
1
BravoTrump! Bravo! you are a great a comic relief ! Wish you were on SNL for ever!
If you think that a 20% tariff on Mexican goods will create massive price increases for consumers and havoc in the American economy, then just try doing the same thing to China. We'll see how Americans like their new President when they are paying hundreds of dollars more for every electronic good that they buy.
I'm truly embarrassed and scared for my country. It pains me to read something like this rather than read something with unity and tolerance.
2
Speaking of taxes.
Hey, Donald,
Show Us Your Chits!
Hey, Donald,
Show Us Your Chits!
1
"Mexico will pay for the wall". "The American people will not pay for the wall".
And now we know. Those are lies. WE will pay for the wall. We as consumers, our businesses, we will pay for the wall of spite.
And now we know. Those are lies. WE will pay for the wall. We as consumers, our businesses, we will pay for the wall of spite.
1
I'm guessing the phone lines between the slave republicans in congress and their corporate masters were burning up last night.
The gop will eventually tire of the every-day-I-start-a-new-crisis trump and seek to remove him from office. He's too unstable (literally)... even for them. Especially with nirvana, in the form of hard right-wing rubber stamp dream boy, sitting there at vp.
The gop will eventually tire of the every-day-I-start-a-new-crisis trump and seek to remove him from office. He's too unstable (literally)... even for them. Especially with nirvana, in the form of hard right-wing rubber stamp dream boy, sitting there at vp.
2
Attention WalMart shoppers, get prepared to pay a 20 percent tax on your fruits and veggies and other goods from Mexico...
All for a $250 billion wall that even border patrol agents and people living on the border say would be useless.
All for a $250 billion wall that even border patrol agents and people living on the border say would be useless.
1
Trump & Co. have the loudest mouths on this subject, while Paul Ryan, and McConnell are quietly plotting in the background! Trump can't pull this off without the cooperation (instigation?) of the GOP Congress!
What did you think he would do? We will see the products of his undisciplined mind for the next four years, stop the righteous indignation of superior intellect explaining him to people who stopped at the pronouncement. Even the times give him a break, giving the illusion of "Mexico paying for it". The headline should be That Man orders a wall built and Americans to pay for it, but then changes his mind when told its a bad idea.
The time now is to organize with others, so hopefully we can end this madness in two years.
The time now is to organize with others, so hopefully we can end this madness in two years.
1
the thought that the price of the goods coming from Mexico would be passed on entirely is a false narrative. It's too competitive here with people living on stagnant wages.
Most corporations are rolling in money. They will have to absorb the cost or actually start making the products in the USA. What a novel concept that would be.
Most corporations are rolling in money. They will have to absorb the cost or actually start making the products in the USA. What a novel concept that would be.
2
The only way Mexico pays for the wall is when Trump make USA so unlivable that we all want to move to Mexico.
What do you expect from a petulant 12 year old.
What do you expect from a petulant 12 year old.
2
Here comes inflation and loss of American farmers.
Trump is proving his ignorance once again. Two things the wall will do under his plan, neither good for American consumers.
By blocking ag workers from Mexico America's small farms cannot produce fruits and vegitables for American consumption. Where will we get that produce? From Mexico which already produces a LOT of our winter produce now. When our farmers cannot grow in summer for lack of labor someone else will and we (not Mexico) will pay that 20% when we buy a tomato.
Even more when our native farms can't harvest in summer and we have to import that as well.
This is not going to make American jobs, it will cost them then keep costing us when we buy our food.
Trump is proving his ignorance once again. Two things the wall will do under his plan, neither good for American consumers.
By blocking ag workers from Mexico America's small farms cannot produce fruits and vegitables for American consumption. Where will we get that produce? From Mexico which already produces a LOT of our winter produce now. When our farmers cannot grow in summer for lack of labor someone else will and we (not Mexico) will pay that 20% when we buy a tomato.
Even more when our native farms can't harvest in summer and we have to import that as well.
This is not going to make American jobs, it will cost them then keep costing us when we buy our food.
1
Where is the outcry from Trump supporters? He promised them Mexico would pay for the wall. Now, he finally realizes that's not going to happen, and so the American people will end up paying for it. And, Trump supporters are silent. What will it take for them to wake up and realize what Trump is doing to the country? Can't they grasp that it is not Mexico that will be paying this tax, but the American consumer? Why aren't Trump supporters planning a giant march on Washington to let Trump know that he can't get away with breaking all his promises?
1
Why would we be crying? This is an opening move. It's his critics who are hysterical. Just like they get every time he says something. We've learned to wait and see.
OK, we have a tyro, ruling the roost. His foreign policy pronouncements reek of nihilism, and pugilism, peppered with jingoism as a condiment. Trump is picking a fight with a neighbor, but pins hopes in baddies, like Putin. One wonders where this road will lead us to. A corybantic GOP group is scrambling for ideas to deal with these, shall one say, avant garde ideas.
People lost in reverie, usually build castles in the air. Not Trump. He just wants to build a simple wall, costing upwards of $15 billion. Now Mexican prez. is turning bellicose. Bravo, Trump. That was a masterpiece and you delivered a sterling performance. And that makes one feel gasped with ''je ne sais quoi''.
With Russia by his side, Trump hopes to take on China and Mexico, full frontal. Whether these endeavors will pay handsome dividends or not, remain to be seen. C'mon Trump, a few more of these, and you might be cooked, and sent packing, lock, stock, and barrel. Be a bit patient.
People lost in reverie, usually build castles in the air. Not Trump. He just wants to build a simple wall, costing upwards of $15 billion. Now Mexican prez. is turning bellicose. Bravo, Trump. That was a masterpiece and you delivered a sterling performance. And that makes one feel gasped with ''je ne sais quoi''.
With Russia by his side, Trump hopes to take on China and Mexico, full frontal. Whether these endeavors will pay handsome dividends or not, remain to be seen. C'mon Trump, a few more of these, and you might be cooked, and sent packing, lock, stock, and barrel. Be a bit patient.
1
I love all you arm chair quarterbacks who haven't had the success even close to Trumps success telling everyone how dumb he is. Really? Force Mexico to pay the tax at the border, use that money to pay off the wall. Prices of Mexican goods go up to make that back but American consumers don't have to pay the tax if they don't buy Mexican goods. This happens, the Mexican economy collapses. It's a bargaining chip. We are the worlds biggest consumer economy which brings with it a LOT of leverage for deal making. We will be respected, we will not be taken advantage of and Mexico WILL pay for the wall.
1
The ease of manipulating liberals is starting to worry me. They get set off by whatever The Times prints. It's often biased and premature. Yet, anything that impugns Trump they believe unquestionably.
And all those German analogies to the wall. As if they cannot even comprehend the concept of a border. We should be grateful they didn't get to select the president. Hopefully, their party will take the reins and restore some sense.
And all those German analogies to the wall. As if they cannot even comprehend the concept of a border. We should be grateful they didn't get to select the president. Hopefully, their party will take the reins and restore some sense.
Serious denial in these comments. Just oppose everything he says and does, (because they are automatically wrong) and he'll eventually go away.
This is irrational thinking. And why progressives are so often accused of living in lala land.
This is irrational thinking. And why progressives are so often accused of living in lala land.
1
Rome, meet Nero. This is madness.
3
If this is aimed chiefly at goods made in Mexico and shipped or imported back into the United States, could Mexico not simply sell to a third party (country) and have those goods come in basically "untaxed"? Or is the plan to tax essentially everything that comes into this country no matter how important that country might be to the US? For example, oil or gas from Alberta? Wine from Australia? Clothing or textiles from Thailand or Vietnam?
When will people realize that we are a land of laws, which have been ignored over the past 8 yrs? Compassion is one thing' saving OUR middle class , growing OUR economy and enforcing OUR laws is why Mr Trump is in the WH and HRC is not!
I'm sure he will be firing someone soon since they have made him look inept, uninformed and unqualified to be president, to say the least.
1
I am disgusted by the president's treatment of the Mexican people and government. His continuous disrespectful tone shows that he does not believe that the Mexicans are our equal, as they are under international law. In fact, at this juncture, they are our better, because they are not treating us with the disrespect that President Trump has heaved onto that entire nation.
A man who spent his whole life literally looking down on people will never understand the strength and pride of the humble. His ego will prevent him from seeing such basic truths about human relations. Maybe he should listen to the bible-thumpers around him, 'The meek shall inherit the earth'.
A man who spent his whole life literally looking down on people will never understand the strength and pride of the humble. His ego will prevent him from seeing such basic truths about human relations. Maybe he should listen to the bible-thumpers around him, 'The meek shall inherit the earth'.
1
Thank you, Phil. Boastfulness and unkindness are not virtues.
Trump's extreme narcissistic personality disorder feeds on the chaos he creates. The man is seriously mentally ill and needs psychiatric help. He is delusional and dangerous.
1
I think everyone should mail Mr. Trump a history book with the chapter on trade wars bookmarked.
2
(With Russian accent) Wat iss point? He does not read ANYTHING..
1
Of course, regardless of whatever tax plan Trump and the GOP come up with, American taxpayers will foot the bill for the wall. How does this help the middle class, already hurting from job loss and being under employed? How does this help the very people who elected Trump? It isn't even 100 days and Trump has alienated our ally, Mexico. What will the self-absorbed, short-sighted and ill-tempered Trump do in a tiff with a country not an ally?
4
Really? Let's see how middle America likes higher prices at Walmart etc... so Drumpf can have his unnecessary wall. They have no idea what they are doing and congress is going to have to make a sharp turn to comply with Drumpelstiltskins tax plan. Expect prices to rise, inflation to blossom and our friends become our enemies. I won't even comment on how expensive medical care will become and how many will die when the ACA goes away. One week and I can see the disaster unfolding. You would think at some point this naked king will be exposed for the fraud that he is.
3
These executive orders are empty bluster to make Trump appear as a man of action to the minority that elected him to office. Ordering Mexico to pay for a wall and Mexico paying for that wall are two very different events. Same with ordering the destruction of radical Islam. These are rantings of a bully.
1
You'll pardon my anger, but the media should be relentless in ramming Donald Trump's words down his throat and reminding the public over and over and over again of his promise that the wall was to be built with Mexico paying for it.
Those of us who actually get the news from outlets other than Fox News saw the folly of this campaign promise from the outset. Now he is backing away from that ridiculous promise that sounded good, sounded tough, but was as empty as his economic "plan" to make the country prosper.
Alienating our trading partner, Mexico, in his first week in office. Wow. Yup, he sure is shaking things up. Just like a bull in a china shop. Donald Trump hasn't had to realize that just by saying something does not make it so, something the adults in the room realize once they pass their 12th birthday.
Those of us who actually get the news from outlets other than Fox News saw the folly of this campaign promise from the outset. Now he is backing away from that ridiculous promise that sounded good, sounded tough, but was as empty as his economic "plan" to make the country prosper.
Alienating our trading partner, Mexico, in his first week in office. Wow. Yup, he sure is shaking things up. Just like a bull in a china shop. Donald Trump hasn't had to realize that just by saying something does not make it so, something the adults in the room realize once they pass their 12th birthday.
2
If Mexico is put on this sanction it would be bound to sell its goods cheaper to other clients found anywhere, resultantly, the PRICES of Mexican goods previously imported in the US, would FALL. So please think, Trump is doing a favor to every citizen of the US. You may purchase one dozen of Bananas for the half price
Interestingly, NAFTA as helped to create a middle class in Mexico. This has helped not only quality of life in Mexico, but has significantly reduced illegal border crossings -- because there is opportunity in Mexico.
One of the many ways to reduce illegal immigration -- provide incentive to remain in Mexico.
PS. Have you listened to the many Texans and border patrol police who report how ineffective walls are?
We have a very foolish, dangerous, and destructive man in the White House...and he apparently has no one who is capable of guiding him.
One of the many ways to reduce illegal immigration -- provide incentive to remain in Mexico.
PS. Have you listened to the many Texans and border patrol police who report how ineffective walls are?
We have a very foolish, dangerous, and destructive man in the White House...and he apparently has no one who is capable of guiding him.
2
This is not building a wall, it is burning bridges. If only we could laugh at Trump instead of cry.
5
Um kind of nervous making that the new admin doesn't understand that a tariff is a tax paid by consumers. Any economists out there?
5
Like I've been saying, the Republicans had better wake up quickly. Sure. They don't care a bit about who is hurt by such nonsense, but President Crazy is bad for business. In fact, I think DT's problem is beyond eccentricity; submitted to a standard battery of psychological tests I think he would be diagnosed as a delusional sociopath. It's not his temperament that makes him unfit to hold office, it is his diagnosis. Impeach and do it soon before he nukes someone. We normal people don't like the smell of plutonium in the morning.
4
Americans should prepare for a trade war that will cause prices for consumer and other goods to rise while the demand for our products falls because our products would be similarly taxed and become unaffordable . This would be a job killer it doesn't take a mental giant to understand the basics, Trump and his hate mongering minions don't have a brain cell among them just a bunch of BBs in a boxcar.
Trump is no business mogul he doesn't have the Midas touch, unless you count not paying taxes for a couple of decades. The weak republican leadership is willing to sell America down the river, pollute our air, water, ground all in the name of profit. This will only serve to further weaken our job markets that the Trump followers claim to need because as young white uneducated males, they can't seem to find that 35.00 dollar an hour manufacturing job that doesn't exist and isn't coming back. If it does 90% of those jobs will be automated. The problem isn't jobs stupid, it stupid people that don't realize automation is taking those jobs. The US produced more goods last year than ever before with only a 1/3 of the workforce that would have been needed a decade ago. Trump votes should stop thinking in alternate facts that don't fit today's job markets. By the way using public money to bribe corporate America to stay is unfair to the American people. It's more lies perpetrated by Trump.
Trump is no business mogul he doesn't have the Midas touch, unless you count not paying taxes for a couple of decades. The weak republican leadership is willing to sell America down the river, pollute our air, water, ground all in the name of profit. This will only serve to further weaken our job markets that the Trump followers claim to need because as young white uneducated males, they can't seem to find that 35.00 dollar an hour manufacturing job that doesn't exist and isn't coming back. If it does 90% of those jobs will be automated. The problem isn't jobs stupid, it stupid people that don't realize automation is taking those jobs. The US produced more goods last year than ever before with only a 1/3 of the workforce that would have been needed a decade ago. Trump votes should stop thinking in alternate facts that don't fit today's job markets. By the way using public money to bribe corporate America to stay is unfair to the American people. It's more lies perpetrated by Trump.
1
Do the bright guys in DC know what they are talking about? I happen to like green seedless grapes and I see that they are frequently obtained from Mexico by my grocery store. How will a 20% import tax help ME? Yes it will hurt Mexico's exports but there is the cause and effect notion here.
1
This Executive Branch is a total mess.
3
In other words, the taxpayers pay for it twice: first through federal taxes, and then higher prices on purchased goods from Mexico.
This will also encourage more Americans to buy from China instead of our southern neighbor, which will cause job losses in Mexico and tempt more people into, you guessed it, trying to cross into the US
Trump is an absolute knucklehead.
This will also encourage more Americans to buy from China instead of our southern neighbor, which will cause job losses in Mexico and tempt more people into, you guessed it, trying to cross into the US
Trump is an absolute knucklehead.
3
Why, of course I'll be happy to pay another 20% for my Corona Lights and Cholula hotsauce. That $12 billion in import tax revenues is practically in the bank.
1
Trump's "Anti-Globalist Anti-Liberal-Urban-Elite Anti-Lizard-Banker-Conspiracy" cult-of-personality supporters misguidedly think of the World & Economics as a Zero-Sum Game - where someone's win comes at expense of someone else's loss (i.e., in their misinformed estimation, developing countries Win at the expense of Loss & Embarrassment for 'Murica).
What they utterly fail to grasp is that if Populous Developing Countries aren't doing well economically, it will end up undermining Global Peace & Stability. And Millions of poor, struggling people without jobs & without a sense of common-purpose - will inevitably rush desperately to seek refuge in UK/US/Europe/etc. So the so-called "Illegal Immigrants" problem will intensify by a factor of 10 or 100. And there might be hundreds of Arab-Springs, dozens of civil-war imploded states like Syria, several more ISIS & Narcotics Mafia will spring up. and Global Stability will go further down the tubes. Trump & his band of cult-worshipers are among the most short-sighted people on the planet.
What's also ironic is that Trump, with his Protectionist Tariffs policies, is going to convert this from a Win-Win game for all nations into a Negative-Sum Lose-Lose game, and the entire world will suffer from depressed trade/commerce, "Great Depression" conditions, and severe volatility & Socio-Political upheavals all over the place ... All because of Tribalism, wounded racial pride, & Nostalgia for the bygone heydays of White/Colonial hegemony.
What they utterly fail to grasp is that if Populous Developing Countries aren't doing well economically, it will end up undermining Global Peace & Stability. And Millions of poor, struggling people without jobs & without a sense of common-purpose - will inevitably rush desperately to seek refuge in UK/US/Europe/etc. So the so-called "Illegal Immigrants" problem will intensify by a factor of 10 or 100. And there might be hundreds of Arab-Springs, dozens of civil-war imploded states like Syria, several more ISIS & Narcotics Mafia will spring up. and Global Stability will go further down the tubes. Trump & his band of cult-worshipers are among the most short-sighted people on the planet.
What's also ironic is that Trump, with his Protectionist Tariffs policies, is going to convert this from a Win-Win game for all nations into a Negative-Sum Lose-Lose game, and the entire world will suffer from depressed trade/commerce, "Great Depression" conditions, and severe volatility & Socio-Political upheavals all over the place ... All because of Tribalism, wounded racial pride, & Nostalgia for the bygone heydays of White/Colonial hegemony.
2
A "buffet" of options? Well, don't eat the fish.
1
Dear President Trump,
Please, please make every mistake possible on foreign policy, trade policy and especially policy that effects the financial viability of every working American.
Please screw up and ruin our economy and our social safety net with as many dumb, conservative ideological actions divorced from reality as possible.
Then, perhaps for all time, we can bury the extremist dogma that rules the right, fools the people and is a constant sword over the head of our beloved nation.
Signed,
An American.
Please, please make every mistake possible on foreign policy, trade policy and especially policy that effects the financial viability of every working American.
Please screw up and ruin our economy and our social safety net with as many dumb, conservative ideological actions divorced from reality as possible.
Then, perhaps for all time, we can bury the extremist dogma that rules the right, fools the people and is a constant sword over the head of our beloved nation.
Signed,
An American.
3
Will someone please quantify for these people the benefits EVERY consumer in the US receives from free trade! By how much would every households' budget need to increase if all imported products they bought would, in turn, be manufactured in the USA or taxed at a rate of even just 10%? And, the greatest burden would of course fall on those who can least afford it. Every first year international economics student learns that imposition of punitive tariffs on imports in the hope of substituting domestically manufactured products does not work. Even if it did work, how long would it take to ramp up the enormous manufacturing capacity needed to match that in places like China to supply the goods domestically?
Casinos worldwide should start taking bets on when Trump will be impeached, impeached and acquitted (and by what margin), and impeached and convicted (and by what margin).
A side bet might be whether he and his family flee to Russia afterwards.
A side bet might be whether he and his family flee to Russia afterwards.
1
The tax on Mexico would be an indirect tax on people here who buy products made there. I drive a Ford Focus. The first one I bought some years ago was assembled in Mexico (not sure about the current one). If there is a tax, something has to give, either Ford cuts back production if the economics don't work out or they make lower profits. Most likely, both. So, the price goes up by a thousand or so and we wind up paying for a wall that will accomplish almost nothing. Trump gets a big victory, we lose.
The wall is a symbol, not a cure. It sounds great (instant results!) but isn't. Neither of the two dominant political parties has actually wanted to resolve this problem because neither wanted to take the blame. Republicans actually favor illegal immigration behind the scenes because they generally represent the merchant class and farmers, both benefit from cheap labor. Furthermore, having illegal immigrants working helps to keep down wage demands from American workers. More profits!
I saw an interview with a farmer in California once who said he had $800,000 in crops that he couldn't harvest for lack of labor. Insane. Who would let those crops rot because he wasn't willing to pay enough to get workers? What he meant was that he couldn't get enough workers cheap enough to ensure big profits.
The middle economic class winds up paying for almost everything. The reason: there are more of them and they don't have the tax dodges of the rich.
2
So simplistic to think a wall will keep people out. Go after the people hiring illegals. Throw the employers in jail, and you won't have so many illegals coming over.
2
Good luck America. Loads of clothing is made in Mexico. He has no idea about where America gets its food and food prices. I don't see Americans lining up to work in the fields picking fruit or veg, food factories, clean dishes, mow lawns, or be someone's nanny.
FYI, he has never been a good neighbor - ask New Jersey/Atlantic City.
FYI, he has never been a good neighbor - ask New Jersey/Atlantic City.
1
This is one area where I agree with the demagogue Trump.
Remember, sometimes by accident or on purpose he could be for something that is right.
A fair, non onerous tax on products made by American companies who fled to slave labor countries like China, Vietnam, Mexico etc. is the right thing to do.
We cannot compete with this countries until either they give their people a livable wage or we tax them, so we can fairly compete with them.
If our workers are still not efficient, let the company move out of America.
Prices may go up a bit but the resulting keeping of countless jobs with decent paying salaries will more than make up for it and invigorate the economy.
Again this is a selective tax, and not onerous. Countries like Japan, Canada, Europe should be left out since they generally pay their workers livable wages.
Remember, sometimes by accident or on purpose he could be for something that is right.
A fair, non onerous tax on products made by American companies who fled to slave labor countries like China, Vietnam, Mexico etc. is the right thing to do.
We cannot compete with this countries until either they give their people a livable wage or we tax them, so we can fairly compete with them.
If our workers are still not efficient, let the company move out of America.
Prices may go up a bit but the resulting keeping of countless jobs with decent paying salaries will more than make up for it and invigorate the economy.
Again this is a selective tax, and not onerous. Countries like Japan, Canada, Europe should be left out since they generally pay their workers livable wages.
1
You don't know what a trade war is do you? China could not be happier about this development.
1
Thank you for your reply Deborah but I don't agree with you. The trade war "armageddon" has been hung over everybody's head by the republicans so much that it has morphed to the democrats.
We are one of if not China's biggest trade partner. They are not about to drop us as a trade partner or make it onerous on us if we pass a fair, non onerous tariff on them. If they did anything rash, their country would implode.
They need us and we need them. It is just that it is not balanced now. We cannot compete with a de facto slave labor country.
After the tax, if our companies here are not efficient, then they can move to China or any other "slave labor" country.
Protectionism and the opposite, playing on an uneven playing field are both wrong. Sometimes tariffs are needed.
We are one of if not China's biggest trade partner. They are not about to drop us as a trade partner or make it onerous on us if we pass a fair, non onerous tariff on them. If they did anything rash, their country would implode.
They need us and we need them. It is just that it is not balanced now. We cannot compete with a de facto slave labor country.
After the tax, if our companies here are not efficient, then they can move to China or any other "slave labor" country.
Protectionism and the opposite, playing on an uneven playing field are both wrong. Sometimes tariffs are needed.
1
Does the TRUMP administration plan to invade Mexico if its President doesn't heel? All of the work that was done over the last eight years by the Obama Administration to heal the damage done by Bush/Cheney is being destroyed. The GOP thinks this is good. Are Ryan and McConnell as inept as they appear? The economic consequences of TRUMP's policies are going to be felt for decades if this Presidency goes forward.
1
Enough economists believe shifting from taxing exports to imports could be a good thing that it deserves study. The problem is the punitive way in which DJT wants to use it and the idea of implementing it like flipping a switch. Mexican politics and the economy have been improving and thus illegal immigration is down. This policy will result in job losses along the border, motivate more radical politics and increase illegal immigration. (Oceans don’t stop illegal immigration and neither will a “beautiful” wall).
If we flip the switch the cost of many goods from PCs, to cars, and goods at Walmart will instantly become more expensive. Here in Austin I watch train cars with truck frames from Mexico pass me as I navigate morning traffic. I work for a company that manufactures its goods sold to the federal government in Mexico because they won’t buy them if they are assembled in China. Those will cost more. (Sure, those jobs will move but I’m not sure they come to the US. Taiwan is more likely.) Many of the fresh vegetables I buy at the super market come from Mexico, so those will be more expensive.
My list goes on but you should be getting the point. So now ask, who benefits from this change. Answer: the 1% and DJT who gets to continue to feed his base who seem to like stark, punitive measures that they think will help them but don’t have time to study and find out there are complications because they are working their butts off to support their families. Sad.
If we flip the switch the cost of many goods from PCs, to cars, and goods at Walmart will instantly become more expensive. Here in Austin I watch train cars with truck frames from Mexico pass me as I navigate morning traffic. I work for a company that manufactures its goods sold to the federal government in Mexico because they won’t buy them if they are assembled in China. Those will cost more. (Sure, those jobs will move but I’m not sure they come to the US. Taiwan is more likely.) Many of the fresh vegetables I buy at the super market come from Mexico, so those will be more expensive.
My list goes on but you should be getting the point. So now ask, who benefits from this change. Answer: the 1% and DJT who gets to continue to feed his base who seem to like stark, punitive measures that they think will help them but don’t have time to study and find out there are complications because they are working their butts off to support their families. Sad.
1
A few analogies come to mind. Trump has now declared that (on the world's economic "basketball court) he is going to play a zone defense against China (and the EU), with only four men on the court. The attacking lanes are wide open and America's economic rivals are just going to keep driving to the basket for easy lay-ups. Not exactly a winning strategy.
There is a simply reason for this. The fact is that Trump has never played in the economic big leagues, because he always preferred to be the big fish in a small pond. Given the advantages he was born with, this hasn't been especially difficulty. After all, how many of us had the opportunity (and gall) to weasel a "small" six-figure, interest free start-up loan out of our daddy? But now he is swimming in the deep blue sea and by the time the Chinese and Germans get done with him, there'll be nothing left but shark chum.
I'm perfectly fine with that -- he has certainly got it coming -- but the problem is that the American economy is going to get chopped up as well. And we have nobody to blame for that but ourselves.
There is a simply reason for this. The fact is that Trump has never played in the economic big leagues, because he always preferred to be the big fish in a small pond. Given the advantages he was born with, this hasn't been especially difficulty. After all, how many of us had the opportunity (and gall) to weasel a "small" six-figure, interest free start-up loan out of our daddy? But now he is swimming in the deep blue sea and by the time the Chinese and Germans get done with him, there'll be nothing left but shark chum.
I'm perfectly fine with that -- he has certainly got it coming -- but the problem is that the American economy is going to get chopped up as well. And we have nobody to blame for that but ourselves.
1
If I was Mexico, I'd be BBF's with China.
1
How about building a bullet trains so workers from Mexico could legally traverse the boarder to work and go home weekends and weeknights. I bet CEO Trump might actually get Mexico to co-build that with us. As to the people who are here already let them become citizens. You know sign another piece of paper in front of the cameras in other words another chance to showboat.
Assuming costs will climb dramatically for the consumer is to say that currency markets are inefficient - most economists agree that under a boarder adjustable tax regime the dollar will climb in value and thus dampen the prices increases for consumers/importers.
All of us who are commenting on the absurdity of all of this (and so much more) are all just hapless pawns in the journalistic conspiracy to attack our president. But seriously folks, let's give Trump a chance. Amid the nonsense he may have something useful to offer. He may turn out to be a beautiful guy. Or maybe not. But we've yet to see much that's concrete. An executive order or two doesn't amount to much. The devil is in the details (hopefully not in the Oval Office!). Let's see what actually develops. Maybe the damage will be limited and there will be a little something positive that develops. As they say in Mexico, "Ojala!" (hopefully). Not holding my breath here and ready to take to the streets and a jail cell if necessary!
The hysterical NYT and many of the hysterical commenters still don't get Trump. He is a deal guy. He always starts out with an outrageous position, gauges reactions, and negotiates from there. He is not a politician. I am not defending him....just saying we need to see how this plays out before jumping off the Empire State Building.
2
"He [Trump] always starts out with an outrageous position, gauges reactions, and negotiates from there."
What happens when everyone uses that tactic?
What happens when everyone uses that tactic?
This is simply proof that Donald Trump has no real business experience or intelligence. An obsurd tariff like this will mean two things only ... less imports and higher prices.
2
Hey D, go local. Forget about the national stuff. Let it happen. Let them hang themselves by their own mouths and actions then consequences. Go silent on the President. Get busy local level. Give the HC/Pelosi/Schumer side of the party gag orders. Shut up and go local.
"Shut up and go local."
Do you mean "grow local"? They don't grow avocados where I live. Please advise.
Do you mean "grow local"? They don't grow avocados where I live. Please advise.
Confusion is his MO - wants to keep everyone focused on HIM. Taxes and costs to Americans are of no concern to him. He entitles himself to pivot, and drop detritus. Behavior like many business 'executives' sad to say, not a world leader. An antidote to his mania is: change the optics of his twisted tv un-reality show. He is TOTALLY vain and delights in bullying the conversation, camera, angles, lighting, and journalists. Torque that pbrain.
2
American taxpayers would end up paying for the wall in increased cost of goods imported from Mexico. Another case of Trump "selling a bill of goods". To please a small percentage of his base, Trump is willing to increase costs for everyone and destroy our relationship with one of our staunchest allies. Former President Fox f Mexico feels our relationship with Mexico is at its lowest point since the Mexican-American war. That's quite a statement.
1
We shall reap what he has sown!
3
That's the way narcissists roll! The fault belongs to someone else. The lying press, the lying camera, the lying eyeballs. It never lies in our presidents.
2
I aint no Krugman (economist), but I know enough that once you start taxing the border it dominoes and history has shown why we have been taking down borders not putting them up. All sides lose and the middle class loses bigly.
I see retail prices going up. Gas will go up. I see inflation. Yep you will get your disruption, but if you're honest, you won't like it.
I see retail prices going up. Gas will go up. I see inflation. Yep you will get your disruption, but if you're honest, you won't like it.
2
DT and staff are not divisive, they have succeeded in energizing and uniting us in a cycle of uncertainty, negativity, hostility and fear. Politicians win elections when they find a way to unite voters. The negative way is relatively unconventional, but turns out it works. DT and team intentionally keep the announcements, assertions and suggestions coming at a fast pace to maintain the intensity of this negative engagement.
Regardless of which side of the ideological fence we are on, we must ask ourselves as citizen stakeholders how we are supporting this. The electronic tools for constant, immediate news distribution and amplification are the apparatus for perpetuating the negative power of DT and staff. Whatever our role (citizen, media, government), are we willing to reflect on and perhaps acknowledge that our participation - kowtowing to DT/team, reporting and commenting on (in the breathless, emotional tone that is in vogue), seeking out the latest dramatic development and associated reactions - fuels the negative manipulative power of the DT machine and enables him to continue to serve his own personal agenda?
A benefit of this milieu is that it has caused me reflect on what it means to be a responsible, informed citizen and whether my actions are consistent with my values. Access to balanced and thoughtful reporting and commentary is a crucial support. I continue to seek sources that provide this.
Regardless of which side of the ideological fence we are on, we must ask ourselves as citizen stakeholders how we are supporting this. The electronic tools for constant, immediate news distribution and amplification are the apparatus for perpetuating the negative power of DT and staff. Whatever our role (citizen, media, government), are we willing to reflect on and perhaps acknowledge that our participation - kowtowing to DT/team, reporting and commenting on (in the breathless, emotional tone that is in vogue), seeking out the latest dramatic development and associated reactions - fuels the negative manipulative power of the DT machine and enables him to continue to serve his own personal agenda?
A benefit of this milieu is that it has caused me reflect on what it means to be a responsible, informed citizen and whether my actions are consistent with my values. Access to balanced and thoughtful reporting and commentary is a crucial support. I continue to seek sources that provide this.
1
If this is the way Trump treats a friendly neighbor, how will he deal with enemies? Start building your bomb shelters now. It won't be long before this madman with very thin skin starts the first nuclear war over some perceived insult. How could we have elected someone as incompetent as Trump?????
6
how about "concern"...say, "flood of illegal border crosses leads to construction of flood gates"....though not a fan of trump's and not persuaded that the proposed solutions will work, why no (no one else having anything better to say, give the guy a chance and help him do better...the national debate already uncivil goes nowhere if we just sit by and lob complaints and taunts at the president...just what is it we're after here?
In one fell swoop, the carton of sweet cherry tomatoes from Mexico that my family buys once a week just went from $5 to $6 a carton. Mexico makes the best tomatoes I've ever had, except for the mid to late summer tomatoes we get weekly from a West Virginian farmer at our local farmer's market. I make a decent salary, but this decision just raised my taxes $40/year at a minimum.
How will those of lesser means who live paycheck to paycheck be able to afford this off the cuff decision by Trump? I suppose by doing without the nutritious tomatoes that Mexico provides, of course...
Trump's decision-making process on issues that have national and international impact, as exemplified by this real-time example, needs drastic change. Those nearest him must step in and inform him how such a process hurts folks here and abroad. On the fly, these aides must be able to provide an option-based decision process and a message to the public on such options, since at any given moment Trump, in his bull in a china shop mentality, will exercise this bullheadedness at a moment's flash.
This is not a way to run a railroad...
How will those of lesser means who live paycheck to paycheck be able to afford this off the cuff decision by Trump? I suppose by doing without the nutritious tomatoes that Mexico provides, of course...
Trump's decision-making process on issues that have national and international impact, as exemplified by this real-time example, needs drastic change. Those nearest him must step in and inform him how such a process hurts folks here and abroad. On the fly, these aides must be able to provide an option-based decision process and a message to the public on such options, since at any given moment Trump, in his bull in a china shop mentality, will exercise this bullheadedness at a moment's flash.
This is not a way to run a railroad...
1
Mr.Trump seems to have a thin veneer of sanity and his decisions are all about his fragile ego. His utter lack of diplomacy and his huge ego blinds him to have the ability to think and plan ahead . And you can count on this, his fight with our Mexican neighbors are only the beginning . He is making the United States of America become the country of hate-
6
A country that submits to governance by a jerk like Trump, tax returns sight unseen, after seeing all those votes discarded by the Electoral College to do it, leaves no doubt that it is grossly incompetent and self-destructive. That it harbors a substantial population of millenarian religious fanatics pining for the end of the world is cause for added concern.
Between scrapping TPP, which really had more geopolitical potential than economic, and his shameless treatment of Mexico, Trump is giving gift wrapped Tiffany gifts to the Chinese. It may only be a matter of time before China starts filling in economic blanks in Mexico as it has aggressively done in Africa. And one can only imagine what the rash reaction of a certain Election College winner will be (assuming he hasn't been impeached or otherwise declared unfit by then).
4
No matter what Trump tweets to the contrary we will pay for his foolish wall. It's ironic that "small government" conservatives like Ryan and McConnell are ready to pony up billions of tax dollars while working to cut Social Security & turn Medicare into a fixed benefit voucher scheme. So many of the older Americans who voted Trump & Republican looking easy answers that wouldn't personally hurt them didn't have rising food prices and senior benefit cuts in mind when they voted. Also when did Republicans become so foolish that the idea of a failed state on our southern border stopped being a concern. There are more effective ways of dealing with the trade & immigration issues with Mexico & politicians like Senator McCain know better. I guess a one party state and power are all that matter now. They would do well to remember pre-2008 when they last held all three branches of government & when the Democrats regain power they would do well to remember to address the economic challenges in this country as well as the social ones.
3
Is this mounting evidence that DJT is out of his league? Pundits are paying their mortgages analyzing the bejeezus out of this when the truth may be that DJT hasn't a clue. More flip-flopping could irritate the base that flocked to him because he appeared so totally resolute. That base may never openly turn on him, but they might lose interest. Still, let's hope he does not, as he staggers about the global landscape, set off something apocalyptic, cuz he could you know.
1
The only thing "sowing confusing" to me at 4 am when reading this 4 paragraph "article" is the sub headline regarding the alleged confusion being sowed. No analysis or news is given by the writer or editor as to why or why not confusion is reigning. Methinks there should have been a few more paragraphs written.
1
Know this: the Trump administration is weakening itself by the minute. Big words that will result in nothing. And if they follow through - the losers will be their own voters. I'm sure he will find someone to insult next to take away the focus from his actual empty policies.
3
If he means a 20% tariff, that would be a violation of the NAFTA and WTO treaties, which would result in legal challenges, and would trigger a trade war to boot. Moreover, as any economist will tell you, this would operate as a tax on American consumers - we would be paying for the wall, not Mexico. None of this is consistent with traditional Republican support for free trade or with DJT's populist rhetoric. Is this pure insanity or am I missing something here? Why is DJT picking a fight with Mexico, our friend and one of our largest trading partners? I am deeply worried.
5
the wall is needed and must be built
tax remittences from the u.s to mexico at 5 percent and the wall will be paid for by the very migrating mexicans that have made the wall necessary.
create guest worker program and create withholding tax to help pay for wall
new fees on all immigration petitions to u.s.
tax remittences from the u.s to mexico at 5 percent and the wall will be paid for by the very migrating mexicans that have made the wall necessary.
create guest worker program and create withholding tax to help pay for wall
new fees on all immigration petitions to u.s.
1
It's a huuuge 20% increase on the cost of our weekly grocery bills on vegetables and fruits that are imported from Mexico! And we import more than $5 billion of vegetables and fruits from Mexico each year.
So, to translate "Trumpese" into plain English...the U.S. and it's consumers and taxpayers are going to pay for Trump's new Berlin Wall!
That a boy Mr. Trump, not one week in office and your already planning to stick your hand into the pockets of hard working Americans!
So, to translate "Trumpese" into plain English...the U.S. and it's consumers and taxpayers are going to pay for Trump's new Berlin Wall!
That a boy Mr. Trump, not one week in office and your already planning to stick your hand into the pockets of hard working Americans!
4
Can someone please tell Trump here is ALREADY a wall at the mexican border. It covers 850 miles of the border. Places that do not have a wall are in remote inaccessible areas, and those are covered by motion sensors, cameras and sensors that bring the border patrol in short order. The border is also guarded by 20,000 border agents.
3
Taxing remittances to Mexico won't work. Here is why: As soon as sending money directly to Mexico becomes prohibitive, remittances will find their way to Mexico indirectly. They will be sent through Canada or Spain, for example.
3
It wouldn't necessarily kill we American suburbanites to learn how to rake our own leaves, clean our own houses, and cook our own food for ourselves, either. God forbid.
"We're going to build the wall and all you dumb rubes who fell for my nonsense are going to pay for it with a 20% tax I'll put on your purchases."
Don't look now Trump voters, but he just shot you on 5th Avenue.
Don't look now Trump voters, but he just shot you on 5th Avenue.
3
Not even one week in and the chaos created by the bogus potus is staggering.
"But a furious uproar prompted Mr. Spicer to temper his earlier remarks, saying the plan was simply 'one idea' that might work to finance the wall."
Spicer has the same habit as his boss: say something bizarre and stupid, then pull back, temper it, and try to explain what he originally meant.
Then "Mr. Spicer said it was not the job of the White House to 'roll something out' on tax policy," and yet DT is doing just that.
"Mr. Trump’s chief of staff, Reince Priebus, said the administration was considering "a buffet of options.” And are we, the people, invited to that buffet? Do we get to eat from it, or just pay for it with our taxes, then wait for Trump to maybe get Mexico to pay it? Yes, folks, that's The Art of the Deal.
"But a furious uproar prompted Mr. Spicer to temper his earlier remarks, saying the plan was simply 'one idea' that might work to finance the wall."
Spicer has the same habit as his boss: say something bizarre and stupid, then pull back, temper it, and try to explain what he originally meant.
Then "Mr. Spicer said it was not the job of the White House to 'roll something out' on tax policy," and yet DT is doing just that.
"Mr. Trump’s chief of staff, Reince Priebus, said the administration was considering "a buffet of options.” And are we, the people, invited to that buffet? Do we get to eat from it, or just pay for it with our taxes, then wait for Trump to maybe get Mexico to pay it? Yes, folks, that's The Art of the Deal.
1
And what prevents Mexico from putting a 20% tax on all American imports?
My friend just returned from Canada. She said that many people, knowing or learning that she lives in the United States, expressed puzzlement and condolences.
I extend my condolences to the Mexican people, our neighbors to the south. I extend them also to all groups of people in the U.S. and the world who are now fearful and hurt because of this horrendous turn of events.
Why didn't we abolish the electoral college after the 2000 debacle? Please, let's get rid of it now.
I hope people throughout the world and in Congress will keep in mind that Mr. Trump was not elected by a majority of American voters. He has no mandate.
I extend my condolences to the Mexican people, our neighbors to the south. I extend them also to all groups of people in the U.S. and the world who are now fearful and hurt because of this horrendous turn of events.
Why didn't we abolish the electoral college after the 2000 debacle? Please, let's get rid of it now.
I hope people throughout the world and in Congress will keep in mind that Mr. Trump was not elected by a majority of American voters. He has no mandate.
The purpose of the tax is to force manufacturers to move to a different country. But don't let reality stop you guys from throwing your tantrums and denying how effecting he is. End result, it's better for Mexico to pay for the wall than to lose all those manufacturers and have 20 million unwanted Mexicans returned to their country.
PREDICTION- The wall will be fast-tracked. This means......
1. No bid sole source contracts for rich friends (big donors) & family, of nearly every Republican member of Congress, who have ever held a shovel or can spell the word shovel.
2. No due diligence/investigation of re: engineering specifications, integrity of materials used in previous projects, or safety record of companies awarded contracts.. You know....like allowing appointees to submit slipshod/incomplete financial disclosure applications & still get the job.
3. Hiring workers at minimum wage and forcing them to agree to not file workers comp claims if injured on the job site (Yes worker safety rules will be waived to build the wall.)
Waste, Fraud, & Abuse Incorporated
Making America Great Again
1. No bid sole source contracts for rich friends (big donors) & family, of nearly every Republican member of Congress, who have ever held a shovel or can spell the word shovel.
2. No due diligence/investigation of re: engineering specifications, integrity of materials used in previous projects, or safety record of companies awarded contracts.. You know....like allowing appointees to submit slipshod/incomplete financial disclosure applications & still get the job.
3. Hiring workers at minimum wage and forcing them to agree to not file workers comp claims if injured on the job site (Yes worker safety rules will be waived to build the wall.)
Waste, Fraud, & Abuse Incorporated
Making America Great Again
1
Yes, but...
"Even if we have to pay for the wall the 10-15 billion pales in comparison to the 9 trillion Obama added to the national debt."
True, 9 trillion dollars was added to the national debt while Obama was President, and true, that makes 10-15 billion dollars pale by comparison (though 10-15 billion dollars is nevertheless a very great deal of money), and true, a 20 trillion dollar debt is far greater cause for concern than the scarce attention it receives might suggest.
But it's not fair to blame the 9 trillion dollar deficit increase on Obama. He certainly wasn't what I would call a budget hawk. But most of that 9 trillion dollar increase was dictated by what his predecessors had done, predecessors from both parties. If Tom Jones is entitled to some government check because of some law that was passed 20 years ago, and Obama happens to be President when the check to Tom Jones is issued, is Obama responsible for the law under which that check was issued to Tom Jones? Or was Obama simply the guy in office when that check was written?
"Even if we have to pay for the wall the 10-15 billion pales in comparison to the 9 trillion Obama added to the national debt."
True, 9 trillion dollars was added to the national debt while Obama was President, and true, that makes 10-15 billion dollars pale by comparison (though 10-15 billion dollars is nevertheless a very great deal of money), and true, a 20 trillion dollar debt is far greater cause for concern than the scarce attention it receives might suggest.
But it's not fair to blame the 9 trillion dollar deficit increase on Obama. He certainly wasn't what I would call a budget hawk. But most of that 9 trillion dollar increase was dictated by what his predecessors had done, predecessors from both parties. If Tom Jones is entitled to some government check because of some law that was passed 20 years ago, and Obama happens to be President when the check to Tom Jones is issued, is Obama responsible for the law under which that check was issued to Tom Jones? Or was Obama simply the guy in office when that check was written?
Wow, everybody realized what Trump had in mind. Bring back jobs in America by taxing imported goods. Gee!
Not a new equation and certainly not rocket science. Now prices on everything from washing machines to pants and t shirts will inch up to price levels of the 1970s and 1980s.
That should be nice news for department stores and retailers that already have been loosing customers over the last years.
Not a new equation and certainly not rocket science. Now prices on everything from washing machines to pants and t shirts will inch up to price levels of the 1970s and 1980s.
That should be nice news for department stores and retailers that already have been loosing customers over the last years.
2
As a sometime retailer, I feel it's necessary to point out that a 20% tariff does not increase the retail price by 20%: If - as is common - the retailer charges roughly twice his cost-of-goods, then the retail price will go up by 40%.
2
The main point that this article and most commentors are missing is that the beauty in the proposed tax is that it will never happen. A 20% tax on goods exported to the US would destroy Mexico's economy, so when given the hard choice they will gladly pay for the wall. So , relax, stop the hand wringing, and go back to sleep.
1
Psst, if the Poor/Labor needed the Rich/Bosses More, you wouldn't have/never need(ed) Pimps and Overseers.
You're more delusional than our POTUS.
Now, I grant you folks like Trump can (financially) pay 20% more for Goods and services and I'm fortunate it wouldn't cripple me,..but not (MANY) of the folks that voted for him.
You're more delusional than our POTUS.
Now, I grant you folks like Trump can (financially) pay 20% more for Goods and services and I'm fortunate it wouldn't cripple me,..but not (MANY) of the folks that voted for him.
1
Trump has managed to accomplish in a few short days what it took about 1 1/2 terms for Nixon to accomplish- to make more and more Americans fervently wish this monster president would just go away. Please.
5
Basically Trump is trying to induce U.S. manufacturers like the Big Three automakers to bring jobs back which would increase exports and reduce imports. However, the U.S. has long been a net importer of goods, so taking those imports would be passed on to consumers. It's hard to imagine the U.S. being able to balance trade by moving toward being a net seller instead of a net buyer - people in poorer countries are not likely to be able to pay for U.S. manufactured goods. What the U.S. can export is knowledge, technological innovation, investment banking and, to wealthier nations, goods where the U.S. remains the dominant manufacturer, like cars and pharmaceuticals (although models and prices vary by location). Besides, if border adjustment includes taxing goods made by U.S. manufacturers in other countries (e.g. cars, clothes), we'll have a double taxation in that these goods are first taxed at the border, then taxed through individual states' sales taxes. Anyway, I don't see Republicans in Congress being too favorable to raising taxes, through tariffs or trade agreements, unless perhaps cutting other taxes offsets these increases. Finally, a prediction: Sean Spicer will not be Press Secretary a year from now if he has to continually battle the and reinterpret Trump's position. It's got to the worst job in Washington, anyway, and trying to explain Trump is like trying to see how long you can hold your breath under water (maybe akin to psychological waterboarding?).
3
Typical Trump flash and trash. First of all, we are not going to tax just Mexican goods. So should we say the Canadians (our biggest trading partner) are paying for the wall. More important, any border adjustment tax would be paid for by American consumers.
A border adjustment tax is a major disruptive proposal that risks starting a trade war with countries around the world. It has nothing to do with making Mexico pay for the wall. Trump again shows us just what a flim flam man he is. He needs some adult supervision.
A border adjustment tax is a major disruptive proposal that risks starting a trade war with countries around the world. It has nothing to do with making Mexico pay for the wall. Trump again shows us just what a flim flam man he is. He needs some adult supervision.
Only 3% of the American population are illegal. 1.5% are those who overstay a visitor's visa, coming to the US via plane. What is Trump's solution to that?
The Wall President is obsessed.
The Wall President is obsessed.
1
The deplorables have done untold damage to our Democracy by electing a bully who cannot distinguish the difference between a good neighbor (Mexico) and a threat to our very existence (Russia).
The end of the Trump Administration, week one, has shown us that there not going to be a bottom, no point where things stabilize. The truly terrifying thing about Trumpism is that anything is now possible from the erosion of the democratic process to nuclear annihilation.
God save us.
God save us.
And who are going to pay this 20 percent? The mexicans or the american citizens whe they buy mexican goods?
Any import tariff is going to hit low income Americans the hardest. Almost 70% of our imported produce and 40% of fruit comes from Mexico. Healthy food will fit into low income grocery budgets even less than they do now.
1
Trump is confused. So confusion is now, the rule of law.
Obviously NOT one of Putins puppets WINNING DEALS or BEST deals ever.
it is so WINNING we are already sick of it.
it is so WINNING we are already sick of it.
Keystone Cops? At least they were amusing. I wonder how long it will take for the smart Cabinet members to resign? They gave up good jobs to work for someone who declared bankruptcy six times - no wonder he had to. And what is hidden in his tax returns? Audits are for questionable claims.
Trump demonstrates on a daily basis he is a terrible president and a terrible businessman as well. Let's see those tax returns, Mr. President!
I'd love to see Trump on "Shark Tank" in front of the panel trying to explain his current "business plan" to build and fund his wall between the U.S. and Mexico. What would those panelists say to Trump?
I'd love to see Trump on "Shark Tank" in front of the panel trying to explain his current "business plan" to build and fund his wall between the U.S. and Mexico. What would those panelists say to Trump?
1
Wow - so having the country led by a madman without a clue as to what he is doing is not so great after all? How could we have ever known?
The US is starting to look like a pathetic joke, which I believe is quite the opposite of dear leader's intentions.
The US is starting to look like a pathetic joke, which I believe is quite the opposite of dear leader's intentions.
By raising Mexican wages and living standards, robust cross-border trade not only stems the migration of its citizens to the United States, it also creates markets for the higher-end products and services produced here. It does so peacefully, to the mutual benefit of both nations.
But this Trump administration needs enemies, not friends, even if his own voters suffer as a result. Who, for example, gratuitously picks up the phone, dials the New York Times, and for no apparent reason other than angry bile, tells it to shut up and calls it, along with other media outlets, the "opposition party?"
We have truly boarded the express bus to crazy country, but this time with the potential to blow up human civilization with nukes.
www.endthemadnessnow.org
But this Trump administration needs enemies, not friends, even if his own voters suffer as a result. Who, for example, gratuitously picks up the phone, dials the New York Times, and for no apparent reason other than angry bile, tells it to shut up and calls it, along with other media outlets, the "opposition party?"
We have truly boarded the express bus to crazy country, but this time with the potential to blow up human civilization with nukes.
www.endthemadnessnow.org
1
Today is the one-week anniversary of Trump's inauguration - it's a mess.
There is no way he can impose a 20% tariff on imported goods from Mexico. The law does not allow it! It's all talk folks!!
Part of a buffet! We could always add a tax to Taco Bell tacos, Chipotle salad bowls and say the Mexicans are paying. Same difference if costs passed on to Americans. Imports will go down, and if it gets serious exports to Mexico will drop too.So much for American jobs. Chaos reigns in the White House aided and abetted by the Congress which will pay from 15-20 billion of OUR money for something not likely to work. A diplomatic disaster just as we lose senior folks at Dept. of State.
I' 'v come to the conclusion that 45 and his advisors are clueless and so were the voters who have foisted this poor excuse for a leader on to our nation. He's uninformed and likewise his followers.
1
Wouldn't a tax on imports from Mexico make goods manufactured in China more attractive to US buyers?
So, let's hurt a neighbor and long time ally to feed our adversary?
So, let's hurt a neighbor and long time ally to feed our adversary?
You know... I see trump getting things done.... Yep... he said what he was going to do.. now he's doing it.
Rather refreshing, don't you think??
Rather refreshing, don't you think??
With an estimated 500 million legal crossings a day between the US and Mexico at our southern border, why not just put a security fee in place at the border crossings similar to what airline passengers pay now- say $2.00 per pedestrian, $10.00 per automobile and $50 per commercial vehicle or bus? This could bring in billions of dollars per year, pay for the enhanced border security and negate the need for a trade war.
So Trump's response to the Mexican president refusing to meet with him is to threaten retail inflation and taxation on the American consumer to build a wall, which for all intents and purpose is nothing but a Narcissists vanity project ... this is the politics of temper tantrums ... meanwhile drugs will continue to be flown in to the US and illegals will continue to overstay visa's ... Now we know how Trump achieved his bankruptcies his determined ignorance of facts and getting his way at any cost.
It seems a real colossal waste of money and effort. As with the other Walls built in the past, it is sure to be dismantled by future governments or the people.
Logical that this tax proposal would come from a "foreigner" - a Republican from Texas.
Mr. Trump starts a rhetorical statement by saying "Unless Mexico is going to treat the United States fairly, with respect..." . I'd like to ask him something. When has the United States ever treated Mexico "fairly, with respect?"
Porfirio Diaz, longtime Mexican president and dictator before the Mexican Revolution nailed it when he said, ""Pobre México, tan lejos de Dios y tan cerca de los Estados Unidos" -- "Poor Mexico, so far from God and so close to the United States."
Porfirio Diaz, longtime Mexican president and dictator before the Mexican Revolution nailed it when he said, ""Pobre México, tan lejos de Dios y tan cerca de los Estados Unidos" -- "Poor Mexico, so far from God and so close to the United States."
Public bullying of other countries, insulting their leaders, and expecting them to then do something that requires their ongoing commitment? The Art of the Deal was full of braggadocio and how asymmetrical information, power, and timing made for "I win, you lose" situations. This doesn't work so well with world leaders. It's nice to know that our Dear Leader is so cavalier with our economy that he'd start a trade war to prove his ideology ("Trump first").
4
You Americans have elected a vindictive, paunchy, combed-over con artist as President. Congratulations to all of you.
4
More than half of us did NOT vote for him. Don't put us all in the same boat. We are sick about what's happening, and your comment isn't helping.
When Mexico impose a 20% tax on american imports such as planes, cars, electronics, medecine, etc, making these products more expensive, mexicans will buy them from Asia or Europe.... So the americans who now make them will be out of work.
These trade wars will however have an indirect benefit: it may stop or at least slow down the stupid and excessive globalisation of trade.
I see no reason to buy Chile's grapes or import a Rolls Roys...
These trade wars will however have an indirect benefit: it may stop or at least slow down the stupid and excessive globalisation of trade.
I see no reason to buy Chile's grapes or import a Rolls Roys...
I like the idea of a government policy as a 'buffet'. You pick at this, not so good, so a little bit of that, drink some more and maybe later if you've had too much, throw up. Best of all, someone else does the washing up - the little people, in fact.
1
At this rate Trump is going, maybe Melania will never have to leave New York anyhow to become First Lady. It will be handed over to Mrs. Pence, by law!
At some point some mentally healthy Republicans (there has to be some) are going to have to admit Enough is Enough and send Donald back to New York.
At some point some mentally healthy Republicans (there has to be some) are going to have to admit Enough is Enough and send Donald back to New York.
3
when I look at Fox tv they are all ecstatic with his performance. I don't look for anyone to challenge him. scary
And then there is the whole question of why we need to spend $20 billion on a wall when there are still millions of uninsured Americans.
3
These people are idiots - unworthy of leading this nation.
3
If there were any doubts about Mr. Trump´s aptitudes for the post, he has made in clear in 6 days time he has none.
1
All comments I read only speak of import tax. What about the jobs gained by American workers. What about the remittances sent back to Mexico by Mexicans working in America? Until you factor it all in you only have part of the story about who and what will pay for the wall. And at the very least the integrity of our own nation would be worth it even if we bore the entire cost.
A 20% tax is paid by the consumer. If this is what making Mexico pay for the wall means, then it's a lie, hiding in plain sight.
2
The Mayor of NY Bill Blasio & aides are defending themselves with US tax payers money,$11.6 Million.
The President of the United States Donald J Trump is defending the Citizens of the United States from illegal "ALIENS" (immigrants) by building a wall with Mexican tax Payers money $14 Billion.
Now,look who's Complaining.
The President of the United States Donald J Trump is defending the Citizens of the United States from illegal "ALIENS" (immigrants) by building a wall with Mexican tax Payers money $14 Billion.
Now,look who's Complaining.
Sowing confusion is a way of distracting us from the reality of how rapidly we are heading for the dismantling of our democracy.
3
Buy your mezcal now, before the price goes up.
1
It is inevitable that such a plan will come out of the consumers' pocketbooks. I think it is only fair that the pocketbooks should be limited to those who supported trump; everyone else, including those 3 to 5 million illegal voters, should be unburdened.
I'm not an American and I wouldn't want to be one. When I was a kid, it was the country we all dreamed about. But now? It's become a sad, sad joke. After just one week Trump the Twitter Troll and his cronies have proved that they must be the most incompetent and ridiculous government that any democracy has ever had to endure. And millions of you people freely and voluntarily elected this bunch. You poor, poor fools.
And you all seem to be in denial, creating scenarios that are most likely nothing but wishful thinking.
God Bless America - especially the weak and the poor and the disenfranchised and the women and the children and all the rest of them who will become victims of a nation's folly.
And you all seem to be in denial, creating scenarios that are most likely nothing but wishful thinking.
God Bless America - especially the weak and the poor and the disenfranchised and the women and the children and all the rest of them who will become victims of a nation's folly.
2
If i was Vladimir Putin, I couldn't be happier with my Double Agent President Donald Trump. He is quickly degrading the economy by following similar economic practices that Hugo Chavez of Venezuela enacted, and tax policies that the Governor of Kansas enacted. That country and state are both crashing and burning.
1
It's the Goldilocks Syndrome. With a democrat as president, the republicans do too little. With a republican in charge, they do too much. If only they could get it just right.
The rush to revenge has whipped up a whirlwind of activity - too much motion not enough notion.
We get the boss thing. Let's hope it turns into the leadership thing.
The rush to revenge has whipped up a whirlwind of activity - too much motion not enough notion.
We get the boss thing. Let's hope it turns into the leadership thing.
I have a corporate client who would be significantly impacted by this tax. The management are (were?) all rabid Trump supporters who thought all this wall stuff was just rhetoric to get elected so he could cut their taxes. Ooops.
The President seeks simple solutions to complex problems. Putting an import tax on Mexican goods will not mean that "Mexico is paying for the wall," but that the American tax payer is. The costs on the items will increase and we, the people, will bear that increase. And American goods exported to Mexico will be taxed, and the American economy will suffer.
Another problem can arise from such actions is the destabilizing of Mexico. Anyone with a brain realizes that some of the problems facing our neighbor on our southern border will move over and affect us. One reason why Mexican immigration has been the lowest in decades is that improved economy in Mexico.
The Question is will Congress (the GOP Congress) roll over and follow our misguided leader?
Another problem can arise from such actions is the destabilizing of Mexico. Anyone with a brain realizes that some of the problems facing our neighbor on our southern border will move over and affect us. One reason why Mexican immigration has been the lowest in decades is that improved economy in Mexico.
The Question is will Congress (the GOP Congress) roll over and follow our misguided leader?
This is like a regressive sales tax that the poor and middle class are least able to afford, while at the same time slashing taxes on the rich and major corporations.
Of course, KeLie can spin this....
Of course, KeLie can spin this....
The U.S. cannot continue to enable illegal immigration. This started with politicians looking the other way because they wanted votes. The cost to taxpayers and the social service strain is unconscionable. Mexico choose to let their people leave, not police their border. What tax to pay for a wall is welcome. Relief for those of us who work and are taxpayers. We cannot be the orphanage for the world.
You have your facts wrong. People are not pouring across the borders and taking people's jobs. They are coming year to do the jobs nobody else wants to do including you! People in Texas who live along the water understand this and are completely opposed to the stupid wall idea. They should know - because it's right in their own backyard. President Obama deported more people than any other president. He was the soft on immigration - another lie Mr. Trump decided to spread. We don't need a $20 billion wall to protect us from those evil "dark" people south of the border. We need leader who can educate ignorant fearful people, someone who understands and respects truth not fiction.
Trump's pointless, useless wall will never be built. And the taxes to pay for it will never go away.
An import tax to pay for the wall? Nice showman touch!
But behind the curtains, who pays? Not Mexico, but USA consumers of Mexican-produced goods, and the 1.2 million USA workers whose jobs are threatened with any slowdown in trade between the USA and Mexico.
It's delusion-driven policy if Trump believes in it, and deception-driven policy if he doesn't.
But behind the curtains, who pays? Not Mexico, but USA consumers of Mexican-produced goods, and the 1.2 million USA workers whose jobs are threatened with any slowdown in trade between the USA and Mexico.
It's delusion-driven policy if Trump believes in it, and deception-driven policy if he doesn't.