In 2025, President Donald Trump’s tariffs on imported goods generated a record revenue of more than $100 billion for the U.S. government. This revenue from tariffs now makes up about 5% of federal income, up from the usual 2% in previous years.
Trump says these tariffs help create jobs in American manufacturing by encouraging companies to make products in the United States instead of importing them.
However, the tariffs have also raised costs for American families. On average, household expenses increased by about $1,200 per year. This rise comes from higher prices on everyday items like electronics and clothing.
Economists warn that while the tariffs boost government income and support some domestic jobs, they also raise prices for consumers and may add to inflation. There is debate about how many new jobs have actually been created, with some experts saying the effect on manufacturing jobs is small or uncertain.
In summary, Trump’s tariffs have brought significant income to the government and helped some American workers but have also made life more expensive for many families.