Fri Apr 11 04:20:00 UTC 2025: **Trump’s Tariffs Spark Revolt Among Key Advisors and Supporters**
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump’s newly implemented tariffs are causing a ripple effect, with prominent supporters and advisors publicly voicing their concerns and criticisms. The White House, however, has downplayed the emerging dissent, with Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt dismissing a heated exchange between advisors Elon Musk and Peter Navarro as “boys will be boys.”
Several high-profile figures have expressed reservations about the economic impact of the tariffs. Conservative commentator Ben Shapiro called the rollout “about as bad as you could do,” citing contradictory explanations of the policy’s goals. He argued that the idea that tariffs inherently boost the American economy is “wrongheaded.”
Dave Portnoy, owner of Barstool Sports, a staunch Trump supporter since 2016, admitted to significant financial losses in the stock market due to the tariffs’ impact. While acknowledging potential risks, he stated he would continue supporting the President’s approach for the time being.
Joe Rogan, a highly influential podcaster, previously endorsed Trump but has openly criticized his recent actions, including the president’s feud with Canada and recent immigration policies.
Hedge fund manager Bill Ackman warned of a potential “economic nuclear winter” if Trump continues his current tariff strategy, later apologizing for a personal attack on Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick but reiterating his concerns about the policy’s economic consequences.
Even Elon Musk, a key advisor to the President, expressed skepticism, stating he hopes for a “zero-tariff situation” between Europe and North America. This sparked a public feud with White House trade advisor Peter Navarro, who dismissed Musk’s understanding of the situation, prompting a sharp retort from Musk.
The dissent highlights growing unease among some of Trump’s most ardent supporters regarding the potential economic fallout of his latest trade policy. While the White House appears unfazed by the public disagreements, the ongoing debate underscores a significant challenge to the administration’s economic agenda.
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