EP 137: Keith Rabois and Zach Weinberg Debate: Are Tariffs a Smart Economic Weapon?

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Debate between Keith Rabois and Zach Weinberg on what tariffs are actually trying to accomplish. One core theme: Tariffs aren’t fully about “bringing back factories,” but rather a negotiation tool to eliminate foreign trade barriers - ultimately aiming to increase free trade, not restrict it. We also got into: - What each of them would do if they were in charge - Whether the trade deficit is a meaningful metric or just a misunderstood talking point - If tariffs could be part of an initiative to replace income tax — shifting toward a more consumption-based tax system - If tariffs could successfully be used as a non-military tool to reduce drug supply to the US - If there’s a major disconnect…