Trump tariffs: Elite Trump supporters are having regrets | Vox

Elite Trump Supporters' Regrets

The article discusses the growing discontent among some high-profile Trump supporters regarding his trade policies, specifically his tariffs. Individuals like Bill Ackman, Alex Berenson, and Richard Hanania, initially supporting Trump for his cultural stances, now express remorse due to the economic consequences.

Reasons for Regrets

• Economic Concerns: The negative economic impact of Trump's tariffs, including trillions of dollars lost and the increased risk of a global recession, is a primary concern.
• Misplaced Faith: Supporters placed trust in figures like Elon Musk to mitigate Trump's potentially harmful economic policies, a trust that proved unfounded. Musk's actions have instead exacerbated the situation.
• Prioritizing Culture War: The focus on culture war issues overshadowed the potential economic ramifications of Trump's trade policies.

These prominent figures, initially drawn to Trump's culture war platform, now fear the economic damage will jeopardize even their cultural goals.

Diverse Backgrounds of Dissenters

The article highlights the varied backgrounds of these dissenters. While some, like Richard Hanania, have a history tied to far-right ideologies, others, such as Bill Ackman, shifted from the Democratic party due to specific campus events. The common thread is their initial focus on cultural battles and later recognition of the significant economic risks associated with Trump's tariffs.

Lingering Support and Costs of Dissent

Despite the expressed regrets, the article notes the persistent allure of Trump, and the potential repercussions for those expressing dissent. Some individuals are already walking back their criticisms, demonstrating the power of Trump's influence and the potential costs of publicly opposing him.