

In a pointed critique broadcast on MS NOW's 'The Briefing,' Senator Elizabeth Warren from Massachusetts accused former President Donald Trump of running his tariff policy like an 'organized crime shakedown.' Warren praised a recent Supreme Court ruling that declared many of Trump's tariffs illegal, asserting that both constitutional grounds and existing statutes did not support Trump's authority to levy these tariffs. The Supreme Court's decisive 6-3 opinion reinforced this view, which Warren wholeheartedly endorsed. Elaborating on her position, Warren painted a picture of how Trump's administration's actions mirrored mob-like operations. She suggested that foreign countries were pressured under a system where knowing the right people in Washington and currying favor with them was essential for avoiding draconian tariffs that could financially devastate industries abroad. This, Warren alleged, created a climate akin to a 'mafia shakedown,' where influence and money exchanged hands discreetly. These accusations highlight Warren's ongoing critique of Trump's approach to international trade and emphasize her support for adherence to lawful trade practices. With the Supreme Court's ruling bolstering her argument, Warren stressed the need for transparency and fairness in future trade negotiations, advocating for policies that operate beyond the influence of personal connections and behind-the-scenes dealings.