The article disputes the idea that tariffs cause inflation, arguing that they only rearrange prices within the economy and do not lead to broad, sustained price increases. It also criticizes the Cato Institute for suggesting otherwise and defends Larry Kudlow's stance on the issue.
Key Points
Tariffs rearrange prices within the economy but do not cause broad inflation
Empirical evidence shows minimal pass-through of Trump-era tariffs into broad inflation
Tariffs shift demand from foreign suppliers to domestic producers
Tariff revenue can be used by the imposing country to offset economic impacts
Pros
Provides a detailed argument against the notion that tariffs cause inflation
Uses empirical evidence to support the claim that tariffs do not lead to broad inflation
Critiques the Cato Institute's position on tariffs and inflation
Cons
May be biased in favor of defending Larry Kudlow's perspective
Does not present counterarguments from supporters of the idea that tariffs cause inflation