During a segment on MSNBC’s “Morning Joe,” Axios founder Jim VandeHei paused the conversation about Donald Trump’s ongoing clash with the judiciary to highlight another issue: the mounting problems the former president is facing—many of which, he argued, are of his own making.
VandeHei pointed out that Trump’s aggressive tariff policies have significantly damaged America’s global reputation and placed the economy in a difficult position with no easy way out.
“Last week, I think the president blinked—big time—because of mounting pressure,” VandeHei said. “It’s not just political pressure. It’s pressure from CEOs, from investors. People who are worried about what this uncertainty is doing to business.”
He went on to explain that businesses rely on stability, and Trump’s unpredictable trade decisions are making it harder for them to operate.
“When companies start freezing hiring or delaying decisions because they don’t know what’s happening with port shipments, that hits the bottom line—and ultimately, it affects consumers.”
VandeHei didn’t hold back in describing the gravity of the situation: “The president is in a hell of a pickle right now, and I honestly don’t know how he’s going to get out of it.”
He referenced Treasury Secretary Scott Bessett’s idea that the U.S. could turn the chaos into an advantage by forming a broad, tariff-free trade alliance with countries like South Korea, Japan, and those in Europe—essentially creating a bloc that would cut out China.
“That sounds great in theory,” VandeHei added, “but if you’re in Europe or Asia, you have to ask—can you trust the U.S. to stick to the deal this time?”
Disclaimer- Our team has thoroughly fact-checked this article to ensure its accuracy and maintain its credibility. We are committed to providing honest and reliable content for our readers.