Overview

• During a congressional hearing, Rep. Mark Pocan repeatedly asked Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent who pays tariffs, but Bessent failed to provide a direct answer.
• Bessent described the question as 'very complicated,' frustrating lawmakers and drawing bipartisan criticism.
• American importers pay tariffs upfront, often passing costs to consumers, contradicting the administration's narrative that China bears the burden.
• The exchange highlights broader concerns about the administration's trade messaging and the economic impact of tariffs on U.S. businesses and consumers.
• The viral clip has amplified doubts over the coherence and accountability of the administration's tariff strategy amidst stalled U.S.-China trade negotiations.