Trump Defends Tariffs, Criticizes Business Leaders Amid Trade Tensions

Former President Donald Trump has reignited debate over his tariff policies by asserting that business leaders who oppose tariffs are 'bad at business' and lack political acumen, claiming his actions protect American interests. Trump defended his sweeping new tariffs, which apply baseline and higher rates to over 180 countries, as necessary to counter what he describes as unfair trade practices such as currency manipulation and dumping. These remarks have drawn sharp criticism from social media users and business leaders alike, with JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon warning that the uncertainty caused by tariffs could harm America's economic reputation and potentially lead to recession. Prominent critics, including Mark Cuban, have also expressed concerns that tariffs will hurt businesses and raise consumer prices. Trump's comments, made on Truth Social during Easter weekend, have sparked widespread discussion about the effectiveness and consequences of aggressive trade policy.