Democrats are calling it risky but Republicans are clearly saying otherwise.
Texas Senator Ted Cruz (R) came to the defense of President-elect Donald Trump’s bold stance on trade with Canada and Mexico, particularly his threat to impose a 25 percent tariff on all goods from the two countries. Cruz argued that this tough talk was already achieving tangible results, forcing action from our neighbors and allies.
On CBS News’ Face the Nation, Cruz explained that Trump’s threat had already “produced immediate action.” He pointed to the response from the Mexican president, who, under pressure, pledged to work closely with President Trump to secure the U.S.-Mexico border. According to Cruz, this approach was an example of using American leverage to ensure that both Mexico and Canada cooperate on critical issues like border security and trade.
Cruz also took aim at the Biden administration, blaming President Joe Biden and the Democrats for failing to act decisively on the border crisis. “For years, we’ve seen an invasion at our southern border,” Cruz said. “Why hasn’t Joe Biden used the same kind of leverage that Trump is using now to secure the border? The truth is, Biden and the Democrats have been complicit in letting this crisis spiral out of control.” Cruz’s comments highlight the stark contrast between the aggressive policies of the Trump administration and the more lenient approach of the current administration.
Trump’s tariff proposal, which is part of his broader economic agenda, would see a 25 percent tariff on all goods from Mexico and Canada, along with a renewed focus on increasing tariffs on China. In addition, Trump has threatened to impose a 100 percent tariff on countries that attempt to undervalue the U.S. dollar, calling on them to “find another ‘sucker’” if they wish to engage in unfair trade practices. For Cruz and many conservatives, these actions signal a return to strong, America-first policies that prioritize national interests over globalism.