Trump's Tariffs: Is Donald Trump Igniting a Trade War or Creating Leverage? with Mark Linscott, Fmr. Assistant U.S. Trade Representative

In this episode, A’ndre speaks with Mark Linscott, former Assistant U.S. Trade Representative and one of Washington’s most experienced trade negotiators, for an in-depth discussion on the logic and implications of President Trump’s "reciprocal" tariffs.

With decades of experience leading U.S. trade policy across multilateral institutions and bilateral platforms, Linscott offers expert analysis on how tariffs are being used as both an economic and geopolitical tool. The conversation covers the legal basis for executive tariff authority, the mechanics behind President Trump's “reciprocal tariffs,” and how Trump administration’s actions will impact the global trade landscape.

Topics covered include:

• The fundamentals of tariff policy and the legal tools used to implement them

• The scope and possible strategy behind Trump’s April 2 “Liberation Day” tariffs

• Escalating U.S.-China trade tensions and the role of 145% tariffs

• Reactions from key partners such as India, and the broader global economic impact

• How tariffs are being increasingly intertwined with national security concerns

Mark Linscott brings a uniquely informed perspective on how current tariff policies may redefine America’s role in global trade — and what to watch as the economic and political consequences unfold.