“It’s Going to Be a Wild Ride”: Fox Host Warns of Higher Prices Under Trump’s Tariff Threats

Fox News host Julie Banderas cautioned viewers on Thursday about the potential economic impact of President-elect Donald Trump’s proposed tariffs on Canada, Mexico, and China, suggesting that consumers should brace for rising prices if his policies go into effect.

Speaking with small business expert Gene Marks, Banderas highlighted Trump’s pledge to impose tariffs that are “so high, so horrible, so obnoxious” to incentivize businesses to relocate their operations to the United States.

“Oh, it’s going to be a wild ride,” Banderas remarked, setting the tone for a discussion on the practical consequences of such policies. “Let’s be realistic. I mean, a lot of American companies do not buy American. They do rely on a lot of merchandise that is purchased from other countries.”

Banderas pressed Marks on whether these tariffs would lead to increased costs for everyday Americans. “Oh, yeah. It could,” Marks acknowledged. “It just depends on how the businesses decide to absorb those price increases.”

Banderas expanded on this point, explaining the likely ripple effect on the economy. “I think if American companies are forced to buy American, it is going to cost more ultimately,” she said. “And then who’s going to pay for that? We are.”

She added, “We are going to be buying the merchandise that they are going to have to raise the costs on because they’re not going to be buying from foreign countries. So ultimately, it does come down to the taxpayer dollar.”

Trump’s tariff threats have sparked significant debate among economists and business leaders. Proponents argue that such measures could revitalize domestic manufacturing and reduce dependency on foreign goods, while critics warn of potential price hikes and strained international trade relations.

Banderas’s comments echo concerns from those who fear the burden of tariffs will fall disproportionately on consumers, as businesses pass on increased costs through higher prices. The discussion underscores the complexity of Trump’s “America First” economic agenda and its potential consequences for American households and small businesses.

As the country prepares for Trump’s second term, the looming tariff policy represents just one of many economic issues that could reshape the financial landscape for consumers and businesses alike. For now, Banderas advises viewers to stay prepared for potential price increases on everyday goods.