President Donald Trump should speak more frequently about the goals and benefits of the tariffs his administration has imposed. This somewhat surprising recommendation came from Scott Bessent, the US Secretary of the Treasury, who stressed the need for clear public messaging about the purpose behind the tariff measures.
Bessent recently visited President Trump at his golf club in Florida, where he raised concerns about the public’s understanding of current trade policies. He urged the president to explain the ultimate objectives behind the tariffs and highlight the trade deals the administration hopes to secure. This, he believes, would bring much-needed clarity to both the public and financial markets.
According to analysts, Bessent is deeply concerned about the recent decline in global stock markets. He believes that unless President Trump improves communication about the long-term goals of the tariffs, the downturn will continue. In his view, the president should consistently reassure markets that the endgame is to secure favorable trade agreements with international partners.
“The markets will keep melting unless you shift,” Bessent reportedly told Trump. “You have to talk about negotiating and what the endgame is.”
Previously, President Trump stated that trade restrictions would help the United States pay down its national debt. He also suggested that some of the tariffs could become permanent.
