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In the White House, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick has emerged as a leading advocate for “Liberation Day,” an ambitious initiative by President Donald Trump to introduce a series of robust new tariffs. As the unveiling approaches, speculation abounds regarding potential repercussions, suggesting that Lutnick’s position in the administration may be at risk, according to multiple sources familiar with the internal dynamics.
As the American public and global markets brace themselves for economic turbulence linked to these tariffs, there is a palpable sense of unease within Trump’s inner circle. Should the anticipated negative outcomes materialize, many insiders believe that Lutnick will bear the brunt of the blame, with concerns rising over how he might handle the fallout.
One source commented, “There’s a sense that people would take particular satisfaction in attributing any issues to him.”
Lutnick has been a frequent presence in the Oval Office, fervently supporting the president’s aggressive tariff strategy and, according to some, offering questionable advice that promotes an even tougher stance on trade.
In contrast, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has positioned himself as a more conservative voice advocating for calculated tariffs. Trade adviser Peter Navarro is known for his unwavering support of tariffs, but he is seen as a consistent figure who does not shake the status quo. Lutnick’s approach, however, is characterized as pushing the envelope with unorthodox ideas, leading some within the administration to express frustration: “I don’t know anyone that isn’t irritated with him,” said one insider.
A spokesperson for the White House, Kush Desai, defended Lutnick’s advocacy, stating, “Every member of the Trump administration is united in their goal to create a fairer playing field for American workers and industries. The president has assembled an exceptional trade team to revive American prosperity, and they are diligently following his strategic vision to benefit the nation.”
Previously, POLITICO reported that Lutnick’s prominent media presence and constant closeness to Trump were beginning to frustrate many within the White House. This sentiment has intensified as the economic implications of the tariffs loom larger.
One source indicated that “Everyone in Washington is anxious about the implications of April 2,” implying a widespread concern about the anticipated changes in trade policy.
Business leaders are expressing a lack of optimism, with many fearing the imminent tariffs. “The expectation is that the impact will be both swift and severe, prompting the administration to reconsider its stance,” noted another source.
President Trump appears to thrive in this atmosphere of uncertainty, relishing the potential for disruption. “He enjoys the spectacle of shock and awe,” a White House staff member remarked, noting his desire to leverage the situation to his advantage. “Each nation has to feel the pressure and come to the negotiation table.”
Whether this dynamic will prompt countries to negotiate before “Liberation Day” remains to be seen.
As one White House official neutrally stated, “It really depends; some countries may be quick to negotiate, while others may resist and face the consequences. The response will determine how swiftly negotiations commence.”
Source
www.yahoo.com