On February 1, 2025, President Trump signed executive orders imposing 25% tariffs on imports from Mexico and Canada and a 10% additional tariff on imports from China.  

Tariffs are taxes placed on imported goods and services and have been used to raise government revenue, conduct foreign policy, and engage in trade negotiations since 1789. Some believe tariffs are justified to protect U.S. industries and American jobs. However, others argue tariffs will do more damage than good to the American people. 

Proponents of imposing tariffs on other nations argue tariffs can support U.S. industries by shielding them from foreign competition, protecting them from unfair trade practices or preserving American jobs. They argue that by making imported goods more expensive, consumers are encouraged to buy domestically produced products and support U.S. industries—which, proponents argue, can lead to increased jobs in U.S. manufacturing and promote economic growth.  

Opponents of imposing tariffs on nations often argue that tariffs can create tension and therefore compromise diplomatic relations with other nations. They also argue that these nations can respond with retaliatory tariffs, hurting U.S. exports and industries and generally American economic growth. Additionally, they may argue that tariffs in general raise prices on foreign items, which harms American consumers and prevents them from getting the best goods at the best prices. 

So, what do you think? Is imposing tariffs on other nations justified to protect U.S. industries? Students can answer, “Yes, it is;” “No, it is not;” or a nuanced answer in between! Be sure to submit your responses by March 13 to be considered for this week’s contest. 

 

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Note: Ideal Think the Vote responses include the following:      

• Address the question asked in a thoughtful and meaningful manner     
• Use cited facts and constitutional arguments when appropriate to support their answers      
• Are expressed in cohesive sentences and are free of distracting spelling, punctuation, and grammatical errors      
• They address counterarguments and opposing concerns in a respectful manner      
• They organize their answer in a manner that flows logically and reads clearly   

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JOIN THE DEBATE BELOW FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A $1,000 CASH SCHOLARSHIP! 

For this question, BRI will be giving away two $25 gift cards, one to each person providing the best defense of each side of the debate. Both students will also win BRI swag. Each student winner will also be entered for a chance to win a grand prize of a $1,000 cash scholarship. Additionally, the referring teachers for both students will each win a $25 gift card and BRI swag. 

This question will run from 2/27/25 to 3/13/25, so be sure to submit your answers in time to be considered for our prizes!