Here’s how tariff has created curiosity among Americans amid buzz around Trump’s policies

"Tariffs" and "trade war" have been the buzzwords in the American and the global media lately. The credit could be rightfully given to President Donald Trump and his mission to make imported goods costlier in an effort to step up consumer demand for domestically produced items.

However, a recent analysis by The New York Times has provided some crucial insights into how a significant number of Americans might be lacking the proper understanding of what tariffs are. The poll result by the media outlet has also indicated that the basic understanding among Americans regarding tariff could be probably subject to the manner in which the question is framed by pollsters.

Opinion on tariffs likely based on question

In a report citing a host of surveys from various agencies, the NYT pointed out on March 4 that when a survey question defines tariffs as a "tax on imports", fewer respondents are likely to say that they support them.

However, when surveys mention the potential benefits of tariffs or describe them in a manner similar to Trump's narrative, more Americans express their support for the levy. Citing a right-leaning pollsters' survey, NYT noted that nearly half of Americans voiced their approval when asked about "President Trump’s plan to impose tariffs to bring back American jobs and ensure fair international trade."

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Here's the flip side

Conversely, when made aware about the potential downsides, respondents were found to show a change in their opinion. A survey carried out by YouGov in late January found that nearly half of the respondents, who had originally supported an increase in tariffs, would either say they wouldn't support the move or were unsure if the hike resulted in "higher prices for American consumers".

What happens when people are given an option to be 'unsure'

NYT also pointed to the tendency of fewer respondents expressing an explicit opinion when provided with an "unsure" option by surveys. Such a third option could lead to vastly different results. NYT said that most of the polls reviewed by it offered only two options, which were either to express support or opposition.

Temporary waiver announced for automobiles

The 25 per cent tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico announced by President Trump came into effect this Tuesday, weeks after they were originally set to be implemented. The recent levy on China has also been doubled. However, on Wednesday, the White House announced a month-long tariff exemption for vehicles imported from Canada and Mexico under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).

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FAQs

What has NYT's review of opinion polls on tariffs found?
After reviewing a host of surveys conducted by various agencies, the New York Times has highlighted how a significant number of Americans might be lacking the proper understanding of what tariffs are.


What exemptions have been provided to automobile manufacturers in respect of the newly imposed tariffs?
On Wednesday, the White House announced a month-long tariff exemption for vehicle
imported from Canada and Mexico under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA).