Senator Ted Cruz (R-TX) has expressed strong support for President Donald Trump’s recent imposition of 25% tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico, viewing them as a strategic move to enhance border security and combat the influx of illegal drugs into the United States. In a recent episode of his “Verdict” podcast, Cruz emphasized that the effectiveness of these tariffs hinges on the subsequent actions of Canada and Mexico. He stated that if these nations respond by bolstering their efforts to secure the border and curb the flow of fentanyl, it would represent a “huge victory” for U.S. policy.
Cruz highlighted the broader implications of the tariffs, suggesting that they serve as a clear signal to other countries about the United States’ commitment to enforcing its trade and security policies. He noted that the announcement of the tariffs coincided with Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s visit to Panama, indicating a coordinated strategy to convey the administration’s resolve on these issues.
The senator also differentiated between the tariffs imposed on Canada and Mexico and those on China, expressing his expectation that the latter would remain in place throughout President Trump’s term to address distinct trade challenges.
In summary, Cruz views the tariffs as a potent tool to induce meaningful changes in international behavior, particularly concerning border security and drug trafficking, and underscores the administration’s readiness to take decisive action to protect national interests.
President Trump’s tariff threat with Mexico and Canada has put the world on notice that the United States will be taken seriously again.
President Trump is a strong leader, and he will not tolerate America being taken advantage of.https://t.co/ncWQ4IJfSo pic.twitter.com/NLk7F92GUS
— Ted Cruz (@tedcruz) February 3, 2025