Trump: Farmers hit by tariffs 'can take it'

In Tampa Tuesday evening, President Trump spoke on behalf of the American farmers, declaring that they can handle getting hit by tariffs.

Earlier this month, the U.S. imposed 25 percent tariffs on $34 billion worth of Chinese products, and China retaliated. Trump said China and other countries have "targeted our farmers. Not good. Not nice. And you know what our farmers are saying? 'It's okay. We can take it.'" Farmers, he added, "are true patriots."

Last week, the Trump administration announced a $12 billion farm aid package to offer assistance for farmers hurt by tariffs. This has been met with scorn by some GOP lawmakers and farmers who would rather make their money through trade.

Subscribe to The Week

Escape your echo chamber. Get the facts behind the news, plus analysis from multiple perspectives.

SUBSCRIBE & SAVE

Sign up for The Week's Free Newsletters

From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.

From our morning news briefing to a weekly Good News Newsletter, get the best of The Week delivered directly to your inbox.

Sign up