Trump's tariffs on the UK will hurt us. With 25% of tariffs imposed on UK car exports to the US. However, Trump likes the UK, and we have only been hit with 10% tariffs on other British goods. The EU has been hit with 25% tariffs, and China has been hit with 54%. Business Secretary Jonathon Reynolds said the hit to British car exports would hurt our economy.
However, Mr. Reynolds reiterated what he and Starmer have often spoken about. That is that the UK and the US remain good friends despite the tariffs. Cooperating on defence and other issues that concern the two countries.
Talks between the Starmer and the Trump administrations broke down over tariffs. Sir Keir Starmer hosted a business meeting at 10 Downing Street with business leaders. Mr. Starmer acknowledged that Trump had imposed tariffs because he is acting on the mandate the American people have given him. So, Sir Keir said he would have to act on the mandate the British people had entrusted him with. I will act, he said, for the economy, the business leaders seated around this table. Also, to put money in the British people's pockets.
Given that talks to fend off US tariffs on the UK had failed, Sir Keir said he would be moving to the next stage of his plan. This plan is an open-ended plan which is prepared for any eventuality from Trump. Had a deal been done to fend off tariffs, then the plan would have addressed that. Now, the UK has been unable to fend off tariffs, Sir Keir's plan will react to those tariffs. Will it be a reciprocal set of tariffs on US goods? Or something else? We will have to wait and see what response the UK gives.
Trump was elected to protect American industry and working people. Like him or not, Trump has a reputation for saying things and getting them done. Trump has signed executive orders after executive orders into law. Biden never signed things on such a scale as Trump is doing now. Trump is like a dynamo in signing. He always has a pile of blue books in front of him, waiting to be signed. His assistant tells him what those books are about, and he duly signs them. Trump, having signed these orders, holds them up for the camera. His squiggly signature is on display for all the world to see. Trump loves to be seen as the alpha male as he sits in the Oval Office. Trump has choreographed this so people at home and abroad can see him. Friends and foes alike see Trump as being decisive and the leader he told the American people he would be.
Going back to tariffs, Jonathon Reynolds said, "The UK will be a template for other nations". So when they are hit with tariffs from Trump, they will "resolve some of these issues". Jonathan Reynolds added some hopeful news. Mr. Reynolds said talks between his country and the US were on going on a trade deal. How long this will take and what form it will take remain to be seen.
The Conservative Home Secretary, conversely, was critical of Labour talk of a trade deal. Chris Phelps said Labour should have pursued a trade deal straight away. As soon as Trump entered the White House, the UK should have been knocking on his door for a trade deal. The problem for the Conservative Chris Phelps is that talk of a trade deal with Trump is not necessarily too late. However, now that tariffs have been imposed, that early trade deal horse has already bolted.
About the Creator
Nicholas Bishop
I am a freelance writer currently writing for Blasting News and HubPages. I mainly write about politics. But have and will cover all subjects when the need arises.
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Rachel Reeves: No Trade Wars with Trump.
Donald Trump, with His "America First" policy, is obsessed with tariffs. The President might as well be called Donald 'Tariff' Trump. During his first term in the White House, DT was obsessed with tariffs. Taxing imports into America is supposedly protecting American industry. As to whether it does, I don't know; I am not an economist. Producers of goods exporting to the USA, like China and Europe, will be paying high taxes on goods.
By Nicholas Bishop10 months ago in The Swamp
Germany’s Nationalist AfD Party Hopes to Take Power in 2026
Germany’s political landscape is facing a potential shift as the nationalist Alternative für Deutschland (AfD) party sets its sights on the 2026 elections. Known for its right-wing populist agenda, anti-immigration rhetoric, and Euroscepticism, the AfD has steadily gained traction over the past decade. While mainstream parties continue to dominate national politics, analysts warn that the AfD’s growing influence could reshape Germany’s policy direction and challenge the country’s longstanding commitment to liberal democracy. The Origins of the AfD Founded in 2013, the AfD initially positioned itself as a Eurosceptic party, opposing the European Union’s handling of the eurozone crisis. Over time, the party shifted its focus toward nationalist and anti-immigration policies, tapping into public frustration over migration, globalization, and perceived threats to German cultural identity. The party has also adopted a strong stance against climate regulations and progressive social policies, appealing to conservative voters who feel alienated by Germany’s traditional political parties. These positions have allowed the AfD to carve out a niche in Germany’s fragmented political landscape. Recent Electoral Gains The AfD has seen steady growth in regional and national elections. In the 2021 federal elections, the party captured around 10% of the vote, becoming the third-largest party in the Bundestag. Its support is particularly strong in eastern Germany, where economic disparities, historical resentment, and dissatisfaction with mainstream politics have contributed to its rise. Political analysts note that the AfD’s success is not only electoral but also cultural. By dominating media narratives on immigration and national identity, the party has shifted public debate and forced mainstream parties to respond to issues they might otherwise have avoided. The 2026 Ambitions Looking ahead to the 2026 elections, the AfD aims to increase its share of seats and, potentially, enter government coalitions at both state and federal levels. Party leaders have emphasized a platform focused on reducing immigration, reforming the European Union, and rolling back environmental regulations. Some strategists within the party believe that growing concerns over energy costs, economic inequality, and social change could bolster voter support. By framing itself as a defender of “traditional German values,” the AfD hopes to attract both its core base and disillusioned voters from the center-right spectrum. Controversies and Criticism The AfD’s rise has not been without controversy. Critics accuse the party of promoting xenophobia, undermining democratic norms, and fostering extremist tendencies. Multiple AfD members have faced scrutiny for inflammatory remarks, associations with far-right groups, and attempts to normalize nationalist rhetoric. Germany’s domestic intelligence agency has labeled parts of the AfD as “suspected extremist,” monitoring its activities closely. Opposition parties argue that allowing the AfD into power could threaten Germany’s democratic institutions and international reputation. Public Perception and Support Despite criticism, the AfD retains a loyal voter base. Many supporters argue that the party addresses real concerns about immigration, economic stagnation, and EU bureaucracy that they feel are ignored by mainstream parties. Polls suggest that younger voters and urban populations are less supportive of the AfD, while older, rural, and economically disadvantaged communities continue to provide the party with significant backing. Analysts believe that the 2026 elections could hinge on turnout in these demographic groups. Implications for Germany and Europe The AfD’s potential rise has implications beyond Germany’s borders. As Europe faces migration pressures, energy crises, and political polarization, the success of a nationalist party in one of the continent’s largest economies could inspire similar movements in other countries. European Union leaders have expressed concern that an AfD-led government might adopt policies that clash with EU regulations, potentially straining relations with neighboring countries and weakening cohesion in European decision-making. Challenges Ahead While the AfD hopes to gain power, it faces significant obstacles. Mainstream parties, including the Christian Democrats (CDU) and Social Democrats (SPD), are actively campaigning to prevent the AfD from entering government. Additionally, voter concerns about extremism, international relations, and social stability may limit the party’s growth. Coalition-building will also be a challenge. Many parties have ruled out working with the AfD, meaning that even a strong electoral showing may not translate into executive power. Analysts predict that the AfD’s influence may grow through parliamentary presence rather than direct governance. The Role of Media and Messaging The AfD has been adept at using social media and alternative media platforms to bypass traditional journalistic filters. By framing itself as a voice for the “ignored majority,” the party appeals to voters who distrust mainstream institutions. At the same time, investigative journalism and public awareness campaigns have sought to highlight the party’s extremist tendencies and controversial rhetoric. This ongoing battle over narrative and perception will be crucial in shaping the 2026 elections. Conclusion: A Defining Moment for Germany As Germany approaches 2026, the rise of the AfD represents both an opportunity and a challenge for the nation. For supporters, the party embodies a chance to restore national pride and prioritize domestic concerns. For critics, it threatens to destabilize democratic norms and exacerbate social divisions. The upcoming elections will test Germany’s resilience, political maturity, and commitment to pluralism. Whether the AfD succeeds in taking power or remains a powerful opposition force, its impact on Germany’s political discourse—and the broader European context—will be felt for years to come.
By Aarif Lashariabout 22 hours ago in The Swamp
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