Wall Street Journal: ‘Smart play’ would have been for Trump to forgo, pause new tariffs
The Hill
by Dominick MastrangeloFebruary 24, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The Wall Street Journal’s editorial board has sharply criticized President Trump’s trade policies, particularly his response to a recent Supreme Court ruling that invalidated his sweeping tariffs on foreign goods. The WSJ argued that it would have been a smarter move for Trump to pause or abandon new tariffs rather than continue down a confrontational path. The editorial mocks Trump’s reaction to the court’s decision, suggesting his approach lacks strategic foresight and undermines U.S. trade relations.
The criticism comes amid growing scrutiny of Trump’s tariff-heavy strategy, which has led to increased prices for consumers and retaliatory measures from other countries. The WSJ highlights how Trump’s aggressive trade policies have strained international relationships, with little to no long-term benefits for the American economy. The editorial also points out that Trump’s tariffs have often targeted U.S. allies, further alienating key partners and complicating diplomatic efforts.
This matters because it reflects poorly on Trump’s leadership and his ability to navigate complex international trade issues. The WSJ’s critique underscores the broader implications of Trump’s trade policies, which have been widely criticized by businesses, farmers, and even some members of his own party. As the 2020 election approaches, such criticism could play a significant role in shaping public opinion about Trump’s economic agenda.
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Originally published on The Hill on 2/24/2026