President Trump doubled down on his tariff tactics on Wednesday, arguing that without tariffs the country and farmers would “continue to be ripped off.”
Mr. Trump questioned “weak” politicians and countries responding with retaliatory trade measures, insisting that the U.S. show “no weakness!”
Every time I see a weak politician asking to stop Trade talks or the use of Tariffs to counter unfair Tariffs, I wonder, what can they be thinking? Are we just going to continue and let our farmers and country get ripped off? Lost $817 Billion on Trade last year. No weakness!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 25, 2018
The president argued that pressure and division in the U.S. are undermining his negotiation efforts. He told those critical of his strategy to “be cool.”
When you have people snipping at your heels during a negotiation, it will only take longer to make a deal, and the deal will never be as good as it could have been with unity. Negotiations are going really well, be cool. The end result will be worth it!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 25, 2018
Mr. Trump specifically called out China in his morning tweet storm, accusing them of targeting U.S. farmers.
SEE ALSO: Trump officials announce $12 billion bailout plan for farmers
China is targeting our farmers, who they know I love & respect, as a way of getting me to continue allowing them to take advantage of the U.S. They are being vicious in what will be their failed attempt. We were being nice - until now! China made $517 Billion on us last year.
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 25, 2018
On Tuesday, Mr. Trump announced a $12 billion bailout for farmers who are affected in the ongoing trade wars. However, the president continues to face bipartisan backlash from farmers and workers associations.
Mr. Trump continues to push back against his tariff critics, tweeting Tuesday that “tariffs are the greatest.”
• Gabriella Muñoz can be reached at gmunoz@washingtontimes.com.
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