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Poll: Voters fear a trade war | TheHill

posted onApril 6, 2018
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Article snippet: A strong majority of Americans believe the U.S. should take steps to correct its trade deficit with China, but a majority disapprove of MORE’s proposed tariffs and there are fears that a trade war could damage the economy. According to the latest Harvard CAPS/Harris Poll, 71 percent of voters say the U.S. should take steps to address a $375 billion trade imbalance with China. Fifty-two percent disapprove of the administration’s proposed tariffs on aluminum and steel imports, including those from China, and 43 percent said they believe Trump’s proposed tariffs will result in job losses. Thirty-eight percent said the tariffs would protect American jobs and 18 percent said the tariffs would have no impact. More than two-thirds of voters say they’re concerned countries will retaliate against the U.S., potentially sparking a global trade war. “Time and time again, the public wants the president to accomplish things such as stopping China from taking advantage of the U.S., but is nervous about the tough steps taken to bring actors like China, North Korea or Iran to the table,” said Harvard CAPS/Harris co-director Mark Penn. “Likely they will reward success and pounce on failure here, so it’s a big gamble for Trump.” The poll did find that male, white, Republican, conservative and self-described Trump voters approve of the tariffs. The Chinese government responded this week to Trump with its own set of tariffs targeting American soybeans, cars and other exports. The re... Link to the full article to read more

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