In recent years, U.S. presidents have expanded their authority to impose tariffs, bypassing traditional checks and balances. Unlike most taxes, tariffs are levied by the executive branch without requiring congressional approval or judicial review. While intended to protect American industries or address unfair trade practices, they often lead to higher consumer prices, economic inefficiencies, and strained international relations.
The Section 301 tariffs on Chinese imports, enacted by the Trump administration and largely retained by the Biden administration, exemplify this trend. These tariffs circumvent transparency and accountability measures, leaving those affected—businesses and consumers—without recourse. Despite claims of safeguarding U.S. interests, tariffs frequently harm domestic consumers more than foreign producers.
Reform is critical. Congress could reassert its authority by tightening oversight and restricting unilateral tariff decisions, while the executive branch could establish stricter review processes and require public input. These steps would ensure trade policies are equitable, transparent, and rooted in data-driven analysis.
As tariffs continue to operate outside traditional safeguards, the question remains: Will policymakers address this imbalance, or will Americans continue to bear the costs of unchecked executive power?