Editor's note: The following letter refers to the article “Trump warns trade talks with China may last past 2020 election," published in The New York Times and other publications.
To the Editor:
What happens to local spending when a storm warning targets an area? Goods fly off the shelves. Local business booms. When our nation is at war (yes, even a trade war) we circle the wagons and ask the incumbent president to lead us through (at least until after the election, right?).
Trade wars (especially with China) loom over the entire nation. A business dependent on Chinese imports as well as consumers have an incentive to buy now before the tariffs hit. Why should the President seal a deal now as long as people are spending (economy robust) in anticipation of tariffs if his main concern is getting re-elected?
No matter, for Trump personally, that consumer debt is now at an all-time high. With no third term possible why should Trump try to strike a better deal for the American people after the election? China wins, Trump claims victory, Americans lose.
Cordell Bowman
Shohola