Pence warns Trump tariffs may spark US shortages, inflation

Former Vice President Mike Pence has publicly criticized President Trump's sweeping tariff policies, warning that they could lead to inflation, price shocks, and product shortages that would harm American consumers and the broader economy. In interviews, Pence argued that Trump's approach of imposing tariffs on both allies and adversaries amounts to a new industrial policy that risks raising the cost of goods and straining relationships with longstanding trade partners such as the European Union and Canada. Pence emphasized that while tariffs can be a useful bargaining tool, their broad application is detrimental and may prompt Americans to demand a different approach centered on free trade with friendly nations. He also noted that even the Trump administration has conceded the possibility of higher prices and shortages as a result of these measures. Additionally, Pence expressed disappointment in Trump's decision to pardon nearly all individuals prosecuted for participating in the January 6 Capitol riot, and voiced concerns about the administration's positions on Russia and Ukraine.