Trump’s Canada Trade War, GOP Loyalty Tests & Economic War on Iran

Mike and Jay open with a discussion of what President Trump hopes to gain from 50% tariffs on America’s second-largest trading partner, whether Trump fundamentally misunderstands the value of allies, and how his approach could strengthen China rather than contain it.

Then they turn to Republican politics after Trump-backed candidates win closely watched races in South Carolina and Oklahoma. How much does Trump’s primary endorsement record really tell us about his hold over the GOP? The discussion expands to political dynasties, inexperienced senators, the decline of the Senate’s old “apprenticeship” norm, and the tradeoff between political experience and entrenched party machines.

Finally, six months into the Iran war, the Trump administration launches “Operation Economic Outcast,” threatening banks and companies that continue doing business with Tehran. Mike and Jay debate whether Trump is really prepared to impose serious costs on China, how long Iran can survive economically, and whether staying the course could eventually force Tehran to accept a deal—or simply deepen an already costly strategic mistake.

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