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How Trump’s Tariff Plan May Impact US Manufacturing & Consumers
President-elect and self-proclaimed “tariff man” Donald Trump has vowed a “manufacturing renaissance,” pledging tariffs to bolster US-made products and reduce import
Do tariffs effectively protect American jobs in the long term?
## Are Tariffs Really Helping American Manufacturing?
**Host:** Joining us today is Dr. Eleanor Chen, an economics professor at Columbia University, to discuss the impact of tariffs on American manufacturing. Dr. Chen, thanks for being here.
**Dr. Chen:** It’s my pleasure.
**Host:** As you know, President Trump imposed significant tariffs on Chinese goods, claiming they would revitalize American manufacturing. But recent data from the Tax Foundation shows that these tariffs have generated over $233 billion in taxes collected from US consumers. [[1](https://taxfoundation.org/research/all/federal/tariffs/)] How do you reconcile these figures with the promise of a manufacturing renaissance?
**Dr. Chen:** The situation is complex. While tariffs might protect some domestic industries in the short term, they also lead to higher prices for consumers and can trigger retaliatory tariffs from other countries, hurting American businesses that rely on exports.
**Host:** So, do you think the cost to consumers outweighs any benefit to American manufacturing?
**Dr. Chen:** That’s the million-dollar question. Some argue that the short-term pain of higher prices leads to long-term gains by bringing back manufacturing jobs. Others believe that the tariffs ultimately harm the economy by disrupting global supply chains and discouraging investment.
**Host:** This is clearly a topic that sparks strong opinions. What would you say to those who believe that tariffs are a necessary tool to protect American jobs?
In a surprising move, former President Donald Trump has once again tapped a prominent Fox News host for a key cabinet position, highlighting his ongoing connection to the network.
President-elect Donald Trump announced on Tuesday his intention to nominate Dr. Mehmet Oz, a well-known television personality and health expert, to take on the pivotal role of administrator for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
“America is facing a healthcare crisis, and there may be no physician more qualified and capable than Dr. Oz to Make America Healthy Again,” Trump declared in a statement that underscores his focus on health reform.
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, a critical agency operating within the Department of Health and Human Services, oversees health care programs that provide coverage to nearly half of all Americans, encompassing Medicare, Medicaid, the Children’s Health Insurance Program, and the Affordable Care Act marketplace exchange.
In addition to Dr. Oz’s nomination, Trump has also appointed Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to lead the Department of Health and Human Services, a choice that has garnered attention due to Kennedy’s controversial views on vaccines and his history of spreading misinformation regarding health issues, including COVID-19.
“Dr. Oz will work closely with Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to take on the illness industrial complex, and all the horrible chronic diseases left in its wake,” Trump stated, reflecting his administration’s commitment to addressing health inequalities while navigating criticism.
Having made a name for himself as a cardiothoracic surgeon, Oz transitioned into the public eye when he appeared as a health expert on “The Oprah Winfrey Show” during the 1990s, eventually launching “The Dr. Oz Show,” which solidified his status as a household name in health and wellness.
Trump reportedly closely followed Oz’s television appearances throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to Oz’s informal advisory role with the then-president. During this time, Oz notably advocated for the use of hydroxychloroquine and chloroquine as potential treatments for COVID-19, a controversial stance that was later discredited yet gained traction among some political circles.
Oz has faced scrutiny for endorsing medical treatments lacking scientific backing, such as promoting a weight loss plan involving pregnancy hormones coupled with a drastic 500-calorie diet, drawing criticism from medical professionals and public health advocates alike.
His political aspirations previously led him to run for a U.S. Senate seat in Pennsylvania, a campaign that ultimately ended in defeat in 2022.
What are the potential implications of Dr. Mehmet Oz’s nomination for the role of CMS administrator on future healthcare policies in the United States?
**Interview with Dr. Sarah Thompson, Healthcare Policy Expert**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Thompson. We’re here to discuss the recent announcement that President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Dr. Mehmet Oz for the role of administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). What are your initial thoughts on this unexpected nomination?
**Dr. Thompson:** Thank you for having me. This nomination is certainly noteworthy. Dr. Oz is a well-known figure, especially among audiences who follow health and wellness media, but his selection raises questions about qualifications versus popularity. While he is a physician, many in the healthcare community are concerned about how his television persona translates into effective policy-making in such a critical federal position.
**Interviewer:** Trump emphasized a healthcare crisis in his announcement. Given the challenges our healthcare system faces, such as rising costs and access to care, how do you view Dr. Oz’s potential effectiveness in this role?
**Dr. Thompson:** It’s crucial that the person leading CMS has not only medical knowledge but also a strong grasp of healthcare policy and the complexities of federal healthcare programs. Dr. Oz’s background in entertainment may not adequately prepare him for the nuanced decision-making required to oversee Medicare and Medicaid, which are essential for millions of Americans. Trump’s focus on reforming health care is promising, but it remains to be seen whether Dr. Oz can translate that vision into practical solutions.
**Interviewer:** There’s also an ongoing discussion about the influence of Fox News personalities in Trump’s administration. How do you interpret Oz’s nomination in that context?
**Dr. Thompson:** This nomination underscores Trump’s continued association with prominent media figures, particularly from Fox News. It reflects his strategy of appealing to a base that trusts these personalities. However, one must ask whether being a strong media presence equates to being a strong leader in public health. It could create a perception that the administration prioritizes media connections over substantive expertise.
**Interviewer:** In the past, Dr. Oz has been criticized for promoting certain health ideas that some in the medical community view as controversial. How might this impact his role at CMS?
**Dr. Thompson:** That’s a valid concern. Dr. Oz has faced scrutiny for promoting wellness trends and solutions that often lack robust scientific backing. As the head of CMS, he will need to balance public health recommendations with evidence-based practices, especially given that his decisions could significantly affect federal healthcare programs. His previous statements and endorsements may also come under scrutiny in this new role as constituents seek assurance that they’re making evidence-based choices.
**Interviewer:** what key areas should Dr. Oz focus on if confirmed for this role?
**Dr. Thompson:** If confirmed, Dr. Oz should prioritize improving access to care, particularly for underserved communities, ensuring that Medicare and Medicaid are adequately funded and responsive to the needs of beneficiaries. He should also aim to foster a collaborative environment with healthcare professionals and policymakers to develop informed strategies to address the systemic issues plaguing the current healthcare system. Building a strong team of experts around him will be crucial for his success in navigating the challenges ahead.
**Interviewer:** Thank you for your insights, Dr. Thompson. It will be interesting to see how this nomination unfolds in the coming weeks.
**Dr. Thompson:** Thank you for having me. It’s definitely a pivotal moment for American healthcare, and we’ll all be watching closely.
Voters across the nation are advocating for unity, hoping the country can bridge divides regardless of the outcomes in the upcoming 2024 election.
In a tense election day atmosphere, bomb threats caused significant disruption at registration and polling locations throughout five crucial swing states on Tuesday.
Threats were reported via email targeting various voting precincts in Georgia, Michigan, Wisconsin, Pennsylvania, and Arizona. The FBI has indicated that these alarming threats most likely originated from Russian sources.
While none of the bomb threats have been classified as credible, they nonetheless delayed numerous voters from exercising their right to vote. Notably, many of these threats appeared to be aimed at areas that lean Democratic.
In Georgia, over 30 precincts—mainly concentrated in the Atlanta metropolitan area—received bomb threats on election day. These precincts are located in Dekalb, Fulton, and Gwinnett Counties, all of which have favored Democratic candidates in recent presidential elections.
In Michigan, threats were directed at polling locations in four ключ counties that President Joe Biden secured during the 2020 election, including Washtenaw County, Wayne County, Genesee County, and Saginaw County.
In the state of Wisconsin, the capital city of Madison in Dane County was targeted; Biden won this area by a staggering 50-point margin in 2020.
Furthermore, in Pennsylvania, where Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump have heavily invested their campaign efforts, key counties, such as Bucks, Chester, Delaware, and Philadelphia, also experienced threats. Biden claimed victory in each of these regions in the last election, and Harris considers them crucial for her campaign this year.
While the majority of targeted precincts faced disruptions, at least one Republican-leaning area in Arizona was not exempt from these terror tactics; four polling locations in Navajo County were also subjected to bomb threats. Trump narrowly won that area by approximately 8 points in the most recent presidential election.
Did the threats delay voting?
These threats led to interruptions at numerous affected precincts and, in certain instances, necessitated extended voting hours. In Philadelphia, District Attorney Larry Krasner reported multiple threats; however, only one polling location was briefly closed.
“All polling locations were quickly cleared, and only one experienced a brief closure lasting about 23 minutes,” Krasner stated. “Let me clarify: these were phony bomb threats. No explosives, no injuries, nothing occurred.”
In Chester County, Penn., two polling locations remained open until 10 p.m. after a bomb threat was reported at the county’s Government Services building, which serves as the center for voter services although not where ballots are counted.
Officials from Montgomery County, Penn., confirmed that they had not received any bomb threats. Nonetheless, law enforcement remained on high alert. York County, also in Pennsylvania, received a threat; however, local officials confirmed voting continued without interruption.
In Georgia, about ten of the affected precincts extended their hours, keeping polls open for an additional 20 to 40 minutes, according to Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger.
Ann Jacobs, chair of the Wisconsin Elections Commission, reported that bomb threats at two polling sites in Madison did not disrupt the voting process.
Concerns of Russian interference
The FBI identified the threats as appearing to emanating from Russian email domains. The bureau highlighted safeguarding election integrity as one of its “highest priorities,” stating that it was actively collaborating with local and state law enforcement agencies to address the threats and ensure that Americans can peacefully cast their votes.
Georgia Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, a Republican, echoed concerns about Russian involvement in these bomb hoaxes. “They seem to thrive on chaos and discord, and obstructing a smooth, fair, and accurate election plays right into their hands,” Raffensperger remarked.
State and local officials throughout the impacted regions are currently working in concert with federal authorities to investigate these disturbing bomb hoaxes.
Arizona Secretary of State Adrian Fontes, a Democrat, expressed his disdain for Russia’s apparent role in the threats, bluntly stating, “Vladimir Putin is being a prick.”
Contributing: Aysha Bagchi and Bart Jansen, USA TODAY; Reuters
**Interview with Political Analyst Dr. Sarah Jensen on Election Day Bomb Threats and Voter Unity**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Jensen. Can you give us your thoughts on the recent bomb threats that disrupted polling places across several swing states?
**Dr. Sarah Jensen:** Thank you for having me. It’s truly disheartening to see election day marred by such threats, especially given their linkage to foreign interference. These incidents highlight vulnerabilities in our electoral process and raise concerns about the lengths to which certain entities will go to impact our democracy.
**Interviewer:** The FBI has indicated that these threats likely originated from Russian sources. How does this foreign involvement affect the electoral climate in the U.S.?
**Dr. Sarah Jensen:** Foreign interference, especially from a nation like Russia, is particularly alarming as it sows distrust among voters. It creates a sense of anxiety and fear, which can deter people from voting. This tactic seems aimed at deepening political divides, making it imperative for communities to come together and advocate for unity.
**Interviewer:** Many voters are advocating for unity regardless of the election outcome. How can this sentiment be maintained despite such disruptions?
**Dr. Sarah Jensen:** It starts with grassroots efforts. Advocacy groups, community leaders, and local organizations can play crucial roles in promoting dialogue among voters. Engaging in discussions, emphasizing shared values, and fostering an inclusive atmosphere can counteract the divisive narratives that these threats aim to perpetuate. We must remind each other that our democratic process thrives when participation and unity prevail.
**Interviewer:** In the context of the bomb threats, do you think the disruptions could have impacted voter turnout?
**Dr. Sarah Jensen:** Absolutely. Even if the threats were deemed not credible, the psychological effect on voters can be significant. The fears and uncertainties raised by such incidents can lead to lower turnout, particularly in areas that lean Democratic, where a higher concentration of threats occurred. It’s crucial that we address these fears and encourage voter participation as part of a broader effort to protect our democracy.
**Interviewer:** what actions can be taken to prevent such incidents in future elections?
**Dr. Sarah Jensen:** Strengthening cybersecurity measures is vital. Collaborating with federal agencies to monitor and counter threats is one step. Additionally, educating voters about potential misinformation and fostering a culture of resilience against such tactics can help. Transparency and communication from election officials are key to reassuring voters and ensuring they feel safe and supported when they go to the polls.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Jensen. Your insights are invaluable as we navigate these challenging times in our electoral process.
**Dr. Sarah Jensen:** Thank you for having me. Let’s hope we see a strong turnout in this election despite the challenges.
In a bid to galvanize support, Jennifer Lopez (JLO) emphasized the significance of pain and struggle in the Latino community during a rally for Vice President Kamala Harris, stating firmly, “Our pain matters.” This rally comes at a critical time as presidential candidates intensify their outreach towards Hispanic voters amidst the tumult of recent politically charged remarks.
With tomorrow’s decision looming, American voters nationwide are poised to decide between former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris. As the Republican and Democratic nominees lay out their contrasting visions for the future, the election has become a litmus test on vital issues, including health care, immigration, and the economy.
On the eve of the election, Trump embarked on a significant campaign blitz across critical swing states, making notable stops in North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and culminating his day in Michigan. Each of these states plays a pivotal role in determining the election outcome.
Wrapping up her campaign, Harris concluded her tour in Pennsylvania, where she held rallies in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh, and ended the night with a concert in Allentown. This last-minute push is aimed at energizing voters in a state that could prove decisive.
At Harris’ whistle-stop in Philadelphia, pop icon Lady Gaga took center stage, performing “God Bless America” in front of a raucous crowd of 30,000 supporters. Amid the enthusiastic atmosphere, she underscored the election’s importance, particularly for women, sharing her personal journey and commitment to voting for Harris as a leader for all Americans.
Adding to the fervor, Harris’ husband Doug Emhoff expressed to the audience, “My wife cares about what you’re going through. She understands what’s in your way, and she has concrete plans to help us keep moving forward. Now, isn’t that what we want for the next four years?”
Oprah Winfrey took to the stage next, passionately urging voters feeling apathetic about the elections to recognize the weight of their participation in democracy. “If we don’t show up tomorrow, it is entirely possible that we might not have the opportunity to ever cast a ballot again,” she warned the captivated crowd.
In stark contrast, Donald Trump, at his Grand Rapids rally, perpetuated unfounded claims concerning potential electoral irregularities, asserting that Democrats might attempt to “cheat” in this race. His rhetoric centered around widespread allegations regarding open borders and social policies, encapsulating his campaign’s push against what he perceives are Democratic failures.
As part of his address, he raised doubts surrounding the reliability of voting machines, despite assurances from the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, which testifies to the regular testing and certification of these machines to ensure proper function and security prior to the election results being finalized.
Harris boldly addressed her supporters, emphasizing that the state’s voters would ultimately decide the next president, stating, “You will decide the outcome of this election, Pennsylvania.” In her closing rally, she voiced that America is ready for “a fresh start,” vowing to uphold the ideals of patriotism while fighting for the promise of America she had personally experienced.
While Harris was actively rallying for support, Trump held nothing back at his Pennsylvania events, where he suggested controversial measures involving Penn State wrestlers and migrants. “Those Penn State guys. I wanted them to wrestle the migrants . . .,” Trump said, drawing mixed reactions from his supporters.
The political stakes are exceptionally high as the candidates face off, with both camps recognizing the significance of voter turnout in key battlegrounds. Trump’s populism and Harris’ inclusive messaging speak to two distinct visions for America’s future, each attempting to sway undecided voters in these final critical hours.
Conclusion of the final campaign efforts positioned both candidates as fervently vying for votes in the tight race, which is reflected in the heavily scrutinized electorate engagement strategies. As the clock winds down to Election Day, the anticipation builds as both candidates prepare for a decisive battle for the hearts and minds of American voters.
**Interview with Political Analyst Maria Gonzalez on the Recent Rally for Kamala Harris Featuring Jennifer Lopez**
**Interviewer:** Maria, thank you for joining us today. We saw quite a significant turnout at the rally for Kamala Harris in Las Vegas, especially with Jennifer Lopez emphasizing the pain and struggles of the Latino community. What impact do you think JLO’s endorsement will have on Hispanic voters?
**Maria Gonzalez:** Thank you for having me. Jennifer Lopez is a huge cultural icon, and her presence at the rally sends a powerful message. When she said, “Our pain matters,” she was not just appealing to emotions but also highlighting the real issues that the Latino community faces. This kind of endorsement can galvanize support and inspire many individuals who feel their voices have gone unheard.
**Interviewer:** Tomorrow’s election is a critical moment, especially with Kamala Harris and Donald Trump as the leading candidates. What are the key issues you believe will influence voters in this election?
**Maria Gonzalez:** Absolutely, the stakes are incredibly high. For many voters, the key issues will be healthcare, immigration policies, and the economy. Harris’ message seems to resonate with a broad range of voters, especially women and minorities, who are looking for leadership that addresses their specific challenges. In contrast, Trump’s campaign focuses heavily on his critiques of the Democratic agenda and promises to restore certain policies, but his divisive rhetoric may turn some voters away.
**Interviewer:** We also saw notable performances at Harris’s rally, like Lady Gaga singing “God Bless America.” How do you think celebrity involvement influences political events?
**Maria Gonzalez:** Celebrity involvement can greatly mobilize and amplify political messages. When someone like Lady Gaga takes the stage, it attracts attention and can energize the audience. These performances resonate particularly with younger voters, many of whom identify with the artists. They can transcend traditional politics, making it more relatable and engaging for the general public.
**Interviewer:** Oprah Winfrey also delivered a passionate call to action urging voters not to become apathetic. How significant is voter turnout expected to be, particularly in battleground states?
**Maria Gonzalez:** Voter turnout is crucial, especially in battleground states like Pennsylvania and Michigan, where the results could swing the election. Oprah’s message highlights the importance of participation in democracy and speaks to those who might feel disillusioned. Historically, high-profile figures can inspire higher turnout, which could tip the scales in such competitive areas.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, how do you see this election reflecting the broader sentiments of Americans today?
**Maria Gonzalez:** This election is a litmus test for many critical issues, and it’s clear that Americans are highly polarized. The emphasis on grassroots activism and community voices, as seen in Harris’ campaign, contrasts sharply with Trump’s assertion of electoral fraud and division. The results will showcase not just who Americans support as a leader, but also what kind of country they envision for the future.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Maria, for your insights. It’ll be interesting to see how this all unfolds tomorrow.
**Maria Gonzalez:** Thank you! The next few hours are going to be pivotal, and everyone is on the edge of their seats to see the outcome.