Most U.S. presidents have treated tariffs as a bargaining chip – a way to get other countries to the negotiating table. But for President Trump, they’re more than just a tactic. He sees tariffs as a direct way to fill the nation’s coffers and bring industries back home.

In his recent moves against Mexico, Canada, and China, Trump hasn’t shown much interest in striking deals. Instead, he’s focused on using tariffs as a steady source of income. This approach is part of his larger vision to strengthen the economy and counter China’s growing influence.

During his Inaugural Address, he made this clear: “Instead of taxing our citizens to enrich other countries, we will tariff and tax foreign countries to enrich our citizens.” He even floated the idea of an “External Revenue Service” and hinted that tariffs could one day replace income taxes as a primary funding source for the federal budget.

But not everyone’s convinced. Many economists are skeptical about whether tariffs can really bring in enough money or revive domestic industries that have struggled in the global market. Still, Trump’s strategy marks a sharp break from past presidents, who typically used tariffs as a temporary measure to force negotiations.

For Trump, tariffs aren’t just a means to an end – they’re the endgame. Whether this approach will work or backfire is still up for debate.