Summary of "Wait — Was Trump RIGHT About Tariffs?!" | The Glenn Beck Program

Episode Information:

• Title: Wait — Was Trump RIGHT About Tariffs?!
• Host: Glenn Beck
• Guests: Justin Haskins & JP Decker
• Release Date: July 17, 2025

Overview: In this compelling episode of The Glenn Beck Program, host Glenn Beck engages in an in-depth discussion with guests Justin Haskins and JP Decker to explore the efficacy of tariffs as an economic strategy, particularly in the context of former President Donald Trump's policies. The episode delves into recent economic data, political maneuvers regarding public broadcasting funding, and broader societal issues, interspersed with community initiatives aimed at restoring foundational values in education.

I. Tariffs and Economic Implications

A. Glenn Beck's Dialogue with President Trump on Tariffs

Glenn Beck recounts a personal conversation with President Trump where he expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of tariffs. Trump, however, remained steadfast in his support, asserting his belief in tariffs despite economic expert opinions to the contrary.

Glenn Beck [00:00]: "I just don't think that tariffs have ever worked."

President Trump [Timestamp Unknown]: "I'm going to do it, Glenn. I just like tariffs."

B. Justin Haskins Presents Data Supporting Tariffs

Justin Haskins challenges conventional economic wisdom by presenting recent data suggesting that tariffs may not be driving inflation as traditionally expected. He highlights that certain sectors, such as clothing and apparel, which are heavily impacted by tariffs, have not experienced the anticipated price increases. In fact, some prices have even decreased compared to the previous year.

Justin Haskins [89:36]: "So when you actually start diving deeper into the numbers, what you see is that there's all kinds of parts of the Consumer Price Index that track specific industries or kinds of goods and services that should be showing inflation if inflation is being caused by tariffs, but aren't."

C. Analysis of Consumer Price Index (CPI)

Haskins analyzes the CPI data, pointing out that while overall inflation remains within the target range of 2%, the sectors most affected by tariffs aren't showing the expected price hikes. He suggests that companies are absorbing the costs of tariffs rather than passing them onto consumers, potentially due to fears of reduced competitiveness and further tariff escalations.

Justin Haskins [93:42]: "Now, it's possible that we're going to see a huge increase in inflation in six months. That's entirely possible. But as of right now, all the data is suggesting that recent inflation is not coming from consumer goods being imported or anything like that."

D. Surplus and Government Spending

Glenn Beck brings attention to a recent government surplus, a rarity not seen in decades, as evidence supporting the effectiveness of the current tariff strategy. He questions how the surplus aligns with traditional expectations that tariffs would exacerbate inflation.

Glenn Beck [96:07]: "But isn't the other side of this because everybody else said, you know, oh, and it's not going to pay for anything. Didn't we last month have the first surplus since, I don't know, Abraham Lincoln?"

Haskins acknowledges the surplus but cautions that its sustainability is uncertain, hinting at the need for continued analysis.

Justin Haskins [96:21]: "I think, this is incredible, really. And if it works, and you and I have talked about this before, I actually think there is an argument to be made that this whole strategy could work..."

II. Defunding NPR and PBS

In a fervent political segment, Glenn Beck discusses the Senate's approval to defund NPR and PBS, highlighting the potential consequences for American children and public education.

Glenn Beck [05:02]: "The Senate votes to defi... As long as it goes through the House, we're so close. We're so close. Please. We're so close."

He expresses concern over the loss of educational programming and its impact on children's knowledge and well-being.

Glenn Beck [06:14]: "At least half the country is against what they do. Why are we paying? And then the bird and the guy in the garbage can show up and you're like, my kids want their plush toy."

Beck criticizes public broadcasting for what he perceives as ideological bias and misallocation of funds.

III. Restoring the Ten Commandments in Schools

A significant portion of the episode features a segment with JP Decker from the American Journey Experience, discussing the movement to reintegrate the Ten Commandments into public school classrooms. This initiative aims to restore what the hosts view as foundational societal values.

A. Legislative Success in Texas and Arkansas

Decker highlights recent legislative victories in Texas and Arkansas, where laws have been passed mandating the display of the Ten Commandments in classrooms.

JP Decker [112:05]: "In every classroom. And the fact that...they are required by law."

B. Historical and Civilizational Importance

The discussion emphasizes the Ten Commandments not solely as religious tenets but as civilizational pillars that promote moral and ethical behavior fundamental to maintaining a free society.

Glenn Beck [113:46]: "Forget about God. Just look at these. What civilizational survival."

Decker argues that these commandments provide a blueprint for societal stability, underscoring principles such as honesty, integrity, and respect for authority.

C. Public Response and Educational Impact

The segment touches on the reactions from educators and the public, with some expressing discomfort over the inclusion of religious texts in educational settings. Despite opposition, the movement proceeds, advocating for the commandments' role in shaping responsible citizens.

Michelle Obama [117:52]: "Some of the rebuttals to what we were saying were, well, yeah, but we really shouldn't be talking about, you know, death and some of these things in schools."

IV. Community and Societal Issues

A. Supporting Israel Amidst Conflict

Glenn Beck highlights the humanitarian efforts of the International Fellowship of Christians and Jews in supporting Israel during times of escalating conflict, emphasizing the importance of compassionate aid.

Glenn Beck [23:30]: "Even in the midst of all of this, there is hope. And it's coming."

B. Focus on American Education and AI Advancements

The episode also touches upon the challenges and opportunities presented by artificial intelligence and automation in the American economy, discussing how these technological advancements could redefine manufacturing and employment.

Justin Haskins [97:31]: "Advancements in artificial intelligence and automation is going to open the door to that being a reality."

Beck and Haskins debate the potential for AI to both disrupt and enhance the economy, with concerns about job displacement and the role of government intervention.

V. Closing Remarks and Future Initiatives

Glenn Beck concludes the episode by reinforcing his commitment to pursuing truth and advocating for foundational societal values. He reiterates support for initiatives aimed at restoring educational and moral standards, while also addressing internal conflicts and challenges within his team.

Glenn Beck [85:16]: "We are relentlessly pursuing truth to the best of our ability."

Beck previews upcoming projects and initiatives, encouraging listeners to support movements that align with preserving American heritage and values.

Notable Quotes:

1. Glenn Beck [93:42]: "Wait, it's not housing, is it? Because, you know, the things to make houses is not going through the roof."

2. Justin Haskins [89:36]: "The target is two. I mean, we're not... when I was saying that it was going to cause inflation, I thought, we could be up to 5%."

3. JP Decker [112:05]: "In every classroom. And the fact that...they are required by law."

4. Michelle Obama [117:52]: "Some of the rebuttals to what we were saying were, well, yeah, but we really shouldn't be talking about, you know, death and some of these things in schools."

Conclusion: This episode of The Glenn Beck Program offers a multifaceted exploration of economic policies, educational reforms, and societal challenges. Through rigorous debate and passionate advocacy, Glenn Beck and his guests aim to shed light on issues they believe are pivotal to America's future, urging listeners to engage actively in shaping the nation's path.