Obama Breaks Silence with Strong Words After Trump’s Tariff Shock
On April 2, 2025, President Donald Trump unveiled sweeping new tariffs in what he called “Liberation Day.”
His administration implemented a 10% universal tariff on all imports, with even steeper penalties for 60 specific countries—including China (54%), Vietnam (46%), South Africa (30%), and Japan (24%).
The move sent shockwaves through global markets. The Dow Jones fell by 5.5%, the S&P 500 dropped 6%, and the Nasdaq officially entered bear market territory.
Economists raised concerns about rising prices and the growing risk of a U.S. recession.
Former President Barack Obama, speaking at Hamilton College, publicly criticized the decision.
Without naming Trump directly, Obama remarked:
“Imagine if I had done any of this?”
He warned that the current economic direction could do long-term damage to American families and businesses, and he voiced concern over broader administration efforts to intimidate universities and legal institutions.
Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer also raised alarm, noting that Trump’s “erratic” economic policies were shaking investor confidence and heightening global tensions.
In response to the U.S. tariffs, China retaliated with a 34% tariff on select American goods, calling the American trade stance “unilateral bullying.”
As the economic and political fallout unfolds, many are watching closely to see whether these aggressive trade measures will strengthen domestic industries—or ignite a prolonged trade war with far-reaching consequences.
