(The Hill) — Rep. Ralph Norman (R-S.C.) conceded that the public is experiencing increased prices due to the tariffs implemented by President Donald Trump, but he insisted that the trade changes are beneficial for the nation.
“Many people are noticing price hikes. Our family works in the construction industry, sourcing a lot of our timber from Canada and other countries. Yes, costs have risen, including steel, but it’s a necessary step for the country’s welfare,” Norman stated during a Saturday appearance on Fox News, in response to a network poll from July indicating that 55 percent of Americans disapproved of the president’s economic approach.
Norman, who is running to become South Carolina’s next governor, told host Jon Scott that “Should we expect high prices for a short time? Yes.”
“Ultimately, we could not continue as before. The problem was allowing other countries to dominate and impose taxes on our goods,” the South Carolina Republican emphasized. “Why should we continually run a monthly deficit? That’s why this President is performing admirably.”
Trump’s recent batch of “reciprocal” tariffs was enacted on Thursday, affecting numerous countries as he seeks to recalibrate global trade relations.
Almost all imports are now subject to a 10 percent tariff. Countries such as Syria face a 41 percent tariff, while nations like South Korea and Japan encounter a 15 percent import tax.
“Poll numbers fluctuate. They rise and fall, but the key takeaway is he’s on the right track, at the right time, and conditions should improve here,” Norman added.
