Kevin Hassett doubles down on Trump tariffs, says dozens of countries are asking to negotiate

Fox News - Apr 6th, 2025
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White House Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett defended President Donald Trump's recent tariffs, claiming they have sparked negotiations with over 50 countries and led to a surge in U.S. manufacturing. During an interview on ABC News' 'This Week,' Hassett argued that while there might be short-term consumer pain, the long-term benefits, such as increased jobs and boosted manufacturing, outweigh the downsides. He noted anecdotal evidence of U.S. auto plants adding shifts and pointed out the historical context of job losses tied to cheap imports since China joined the WTO in 2000.

The exclusion of Russia from the new tariffs was addressed, with Hassett explaining that ongoing negotiations related to the Russia-Ukraine situation influenced this decision. He emphasized that the focus is on peace talks affecting millions of lives, suggesting that adding tariffs during these discussions could be counterproductive. This strategic move has been met with scrutiny, as Russia remains one of the few countries unaffected by the tariffs, highlighting the complex geopolitical dynamics at play.

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RATING

6.2
Moderately Fair
Read with skepticism

The article provides a timely and relevant exploration of the U.S. administration's perspective on tariffs and trade negotiations. It effectively communicates Kevin Hassett's defense of the tariffs and their purported benefits, making the topic accessible to a general audience. However, the article's reliance on a single source and lack of diverse perspectives limit its balance and depth. To enhance its accuracy and impact, the article would benefit from independent verification of claims and the inclusion of a broader range of viewpoints. By addressing these areas, the article could offer a more comprehensive and nuanced examination of the complex economic issues surrounding tariffs and trade policies.

RATING DETAILS

6
Accuracy

The story presents several claims that require verification, such as the assertion that over 50 countries are seeking to negotiate new trade agreements following the imposition of tariffs by President Trump. While the article cites Kevin Hassett's statements, it lacks independent verification of these claims. Additionally, Hassett's assertion that U.S. manufacturing is booming and that some auto plants are adding second shifts due to the tariffs is not supported with specific examples or data. The claim regarding Russia's exemption from tariffs is explained as part of ongoing negotiations, but further details are necessary to fully understand this context. Overall, while the story accurately reports Hassett's statements, it does not provide sufficient evidence to corroborate these claims or explore their broader implications.

5
Balance

The article primarily focuses on Kevin Hassett's perspective, presenting his defense of the tariffs and their supposed benefits. However, it lacks a balanced representation of opposing views. For instance, while it briefly mentions former Treasury Secretary Larry Summers' disagreement with Hassett's predictions, it does not delve into his arguments or provide a platform for other economic experts to weigh in. This lack of diverse perspectives creates an imbalance, as the article leans heavily towards supporting the administration's stance without adequately exploring potential downsides or criticisms of the tariffs. Including a wider range of viewpoints would enhance the article's balance and provide readers with a more comprehensive understanding of the issue.

7
Clarity

The article is generally clear and straightforward, effectively summarizing Kevin Hassett's key points and the context of his statements. The language is accessible, and the structure follows a logical progression, making it easy for readers to follow the narrative. However, some areas could benefit from additional elaboration, such as providing more context on the ongoing negotiations with Russia and Ukraine. While the article presents Hassett's arguments clearly, it could enhance clarity by offering more detailed explanations of complex economic concepts, such as the relationship between tariffs, trade deficits, and job creation.

7
Source quality

The article relies on Kevin Hassett, a high-ranking official, as its primary source, lending credibility to the claims made. However, the reliance on a single source, particularly one with a vested interest in promoting the administration's policies, raises potential concerns about impartiality. The article would benefit from incorporating additional authoritative sources, such as independent economists or trade experts, to provide a more nuanced analysis of the tariffs' impact. The inclusion of perspectives from affected industries or consumer advocacy groups could also enhance the article's reliability by offering a broader range of insights.

6
Transparency

The article provides a clear account of Kevin Hassett's statements and the context in which they were made, such as his appearance on ABC News' "This Week." However, it lacks transparency regarding the basis for some of the claims, such as the specific evidence supporting the assertion that over 50 countries are seeking negotiations. Additionally, the article does not disclose any potential conflicts of interest or biases that may influence Hassett's statements. Greater transparency in explaining the methodology behind the claims and acknowledging any limitations or uncertainties would improve the article's credibility and help readers better assess the information presented.

Sources

  1. https://abcnews.go.com/Politics/trumps-top-economic-adviser-hassett-refutes-tariffs-raise/story?id=120523274
  2. https://www.foxnews.com/category/world
  3. https://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2025/apr/6/kevin-hassett-national-economic-council-chief-downplays-concerns/
  4. https://www.foxnews.com/category/person/donald-trump
  5. https://www.foxnews.com/video/6370952768112