Podcast Summary: Louder with Crowder Episode – "Why Trump & America Will Dominate the Global Trade War"

Introduction

In the February 3, 2025, episode of "Louder with Crowder," host Steven Crowder delves into the complexities of the ongoing global trade war, highlighting former President Donald Trump's strategies and their implications for America's economic dominance. Co-hosts Gerald Morgan and Josh Firestein join Crowder to dissect issues surrounding immigration, border security, and international trade tensions, offering their take on how these factors interplay to shape the current economic landscape.

Mass Deportation and Border Security

The episode begins with a focus on the Trump administration's aggressive stance on immigration and border security. Crowder asserts the administration's commitment to "the complete restoration of America" through a series of executive orders aimed at curbing illegal immigration.

Gerald Morgan provides statistical support, stating, "According to ICE, they've arrested more than 7.2 thousand illegal aliens in Donald Trump's first nine days in office" ([04:47]). He emphasizes the success of Trump's policies, noting a "93%" decrease in border crossings ([05:10]).

The hosts discuss the feasibility and economic impact of mass deportations. They challenge critics by arguing that deporting illegal immigrants will not only enhance national security but also alleviate economic burdens. Morgan counters leftist arguments by highlighting the purported inefficiency of mass deportation efforts, stating, "It's just not actually something you can do. Mass deporting people is a fool's errand" ([15:48]).

Critique of Leftist Arguments on Immigration

The conversation shifts to dissecting media narratives, particularly targeting a John Oliver video that critiques Trump's immigration policies. Morgan and Firestein argue that the left's portrayal of immigrants as indispensable to the economy is misleading. Morgan debunks the notion by presenting counterarguments, such as the high cost of deportations and the strain on government resources: "Costing American taxpayers up to $450 billion a year... Losing 320,000 children" ([13:05]).

Crowder and his co-hosts assert that immigrants occupy jobs Americans are unwilling to take, thus bolstering the economy by filling essential roles in construction and other low-skilled sectors. They dismiss claims that immigrants reduce wages for low-skilled Americans, arguing instead that illegal immigrants contribute positively by filling labor shortages.

Tariff Wars: Trump's Strategy and Responses

The primary focus of the episode centers on Trump's initiation of a broad tariff strategy aimed at correcting perceived trade imbalances and protecting American industries. Crowder outlines the rationale behind these tariffs, emphasizing the need to "use its power, use its negotiating clout to try and benefit Americans" ([34:00]).

A. Tariffs on Canada, Mexico, China, EU

Morgan details the specific tariffs imposed on key trading partners:

• Canada: Aiming a 25% tariff on $155 billion worth of American goods, targeting dairy, beer, wine, and bourbon.
• Mexico: Imposing a 25% tariff on American beef and a 10% tariff on energy exports.
• China: Implementing a 22% tariff on American goods, slightly higher than the U.S.'s 19% on Chinese imports.
• European Union: A 10% tariff on American automobiles, complicating trade relations further.

B. Canada's Retaliation

The hosts critique Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's response, mocking his inability to effectively counter the tariffs. Morgan sarcastically remarks, "We have not done anything, we have done some things. We've increased taxes" ([50:59]). They argue that Canada's retaliatory tariffs are minor compared to the longstanding high tariffs Canada has imposed on American goods, particularly dairy.

C. Mexico's Response

Mexico responds by deploying 10,000 National Guard members to reinforce its northern border, addressing the U.S.'s concerns over drug trafficking and illegal immigration. Morgan highlights this as a necessary step, stating, "These soldiers will be specifically designated to stop the flow of fentanyl and illegal migrants into our country" ([37:30]).

D. Potential Impact and Trade Deficit Analysis

Morgan provides an in-depth analysis of trade deficits, arguing that the imposed tariffs are a corrective measure against longstanding imbalances:

• Canada: U.S. trade deficit of $55 billion, with American exports constituting only 1.1% of Canada's GDP.
• Mexico: U.S. trade deficit of $157 billion, American exports accounting for 1% of Mexico's GDP.
• China: U.S. trade deficit of $270 billion, with American exports representing 0.45% of China's GDP.
• European Union: U.S. trade deficit of $213 billion, American exports making up 1.2% of the EU's GDP.

Morgan critiques the ineffectiveness of previous administrations' approaches, emphasizing that "Trump is finally going, you know what? I've got this. Let's just see what happens" ([50:07]).

Conclusion

The episode concludes with Crowder and his co-hosts reaffirming their support for Trump's policies, arguing that the strategic use of tariffs and strict immigration control will ultimately benefit the American economy and restore national sovereignty. They dismiss opposing views as ineffective and driven by outdated narratives, emphasizing the administration's proactive measures to secure America's economic future.

Notable Quotes:

• Gerald Morgan ([04:47]): "They've arrested more than 7.2 thousand illegal aliens in Donald Trump's first nine days in office."
• Gerald Morgan ([05:10]): "The crossings on the border down 93%. 93%."
• Gerald Morgan ([15:48]): "Mass deporting people is a fool's errand."
• Gerald Morgan ([34:00]): "Use its power, use its negotiating clout to try and benefit Americans."
• Gerald Morgan ([37:30]): "These soldiers will be specifically designated to stop the flow of fentanyl and illegal migrants into our country."

Overall Insights:

• Economic Nationalism: The episode underscores a nationalist approach to trade and immigration, advocating for policies that prioritize American workers and industries.
• Trade Deficit Correction: Emphasis on rectifying trade deficits through tariffs and renegotiating trade deals to favor U.S. economic interests.
• Border Security: Strong advocacy for stringent immigration controls as both a security measure and an economic strategy to protect American jobs.
• Critique of Media Narratives: Hosts challenge mainstream media portrayals of immigration and trade, positioning themselves as defenders of a more conservative, America-first perspective.

Conclusion for New Listeners:

For those unfamiliar with "Louder with Crowder," this episode offers a comprehensive look at current trade tensions and immigration policies from a conservative viewpoint. The hosts provide statistical evidence and policy analysis aimed at illustrating how Trump's strategies could reposition America as a dominant player in global trade. The conversation is peppered with humor and sharp critiques of opposing viewpoints, making it an engaging listen for those interested in political discourse surrounding economics and national security.