Overview

• President Donald Trump's tariffs targeting imports from China, the EU, Mexico, and Canada have officially taken effect, escalating global trade tensions.
• Republican Senator Ted Cruz expressed concerns that the tariffs could trigger a severe recession, potentially harming the U.S. economy and the Republican Party's political standing.
• Cruz warned that economic fallout might cost Republicans their slim majorities in both the House and Senate in the 2026 elections.
• While acknowledging potential benefits, such as successful negotiations leading to reduced tariffs on U.S. goods, Cruz emphasized the significant risks of retaliatory measures from trade partners.
• Cruz, not traditionally critical of Trump, stated his skepticism about the effectiveness of tariffs and described this week as one of the most consequential of Trump's second term.