Rep. Ralph Norman Defends Trump Tariffs Amid Rising Prices

Republican Congressman Ralph Norman of South Carolina has acknowledged that President Donald Trump's tariffs have led to higher prices on many imported goods, including timber and steel, which affect his family's construction business. Despite the price increases, Norman argues that these tariffs are "for the good of the country" and necessary to reset the economic balance, asserting that the U.S. could not continue running deficits and allowing other countries to dominate trade terms. He expects the high prices to be temporary and emphasizes that Trump's trade policies are ultimately beneficial, despite a Fox News poll showing only 55 percent approval for the president's economic management. Norman, who is running for South Carolina governor and did not endorse Trump in the 2024 Republican primary, has nevertheless praised Trump's recent actions, including his decision on Iran, calling him one of the greatest presidents. The tariffs, which took effect recently after delays, impose a baseline 10 percent duty on most imports, with an overall effective rate exceeding 17 percent, impacting numerous countries and leading to broad price increases. Critics and some economists warn that these tariffs will cause widespread cost hikes on everyday goods, sparking debate over the economic consequences.