Does Pence still think he’s the Vice President?
Could This Be the Largest Tax Hike in U.S. History—Without Calling It a Tax?
In a surprising move, former Vice President Mike Pence has issued a strong warning against President Donald Trump’s newly announced tariff plan—calling it a potential “economic burden” on everyday Americans and a “massive tax increase in disguise.”
Trump’s new tariffs target over 100 countries and are being described by Pence as ten times larger than those implemented during the first Trump administration. According to conservative policy group Advancing American Freedom, which Pence chairs, these tariffs could cost American households over $3,500 per year.
“American families are still reeling from 20% Bidenflation,” said Pence’s group in a memo. “An equally massive Trump Tariff Tax could deliver another blow to our wallets—especially for seniors, retirees, and the working class.”
Are American Families Being Caught in a New Trade War?
The announcement, made Wednesday, immediately rattled global markets and raised fears of a full-scale international trade conflict—a scenario that could lead to higher prices on consumer goods, job losses in key industries, and economic uncertainty just as many are trying to recover from the inflation surge under President Joe Biden.
While President Trump remains the frontrunner for the 2024 Republican nomination and enjoys strong support among conservative voters, Pence is one of the few high-profile GOP leaders expressing concern over the direction of Trump’s trade policy.
He emphasized that these tariffs differ significantly from the more focused, strategic trade measures used during the first Trump-Pence term.
Polls Show Mixed Feelings Among Conservatives
A recent YouGov/Yahoo poll cited by Pence’s team shows Trump’s approval rating on economic issues sitting at just 39%—a number that surprised many considering his strong stance on “America First” economic policies.
Some conservative groups worry that unless the tariffs are narrowed or carefully targeted, they could dampen support among key voting blocs in 2024—especially older Americans living on fixed incomes and small business owners already stretched thin.
Congress Pushes Back: Bipartisan Bill Introduced
Meanwhile, lawmakers in both parties are moving to curb executive power over tariffs, with new legislation introduced Thursday that would return authority over trade decisions to Congress. The bill seeks to ensure that future tariff actions undergo proper debate—especially those that could affect millions of families and retirees.
Final Thoughts: Economic Patriotism or Economic Pain?
As conservatives weigh the risks and rewards of Trump’s bold economic agenda, one thing is clear: the debate over tariffs, taxes, and inflation is far from over. Pence’s public break may not sway Trump’s base, but it does signal growing concern about how these policies could impact real Americans—not just headlines.
Pence is a namby-pamby traitor. He was never about America first. Never about helping Trump implementing his agenda. I am a former Hoosier, and I am ashamed of him.