President Donald Trump sparked a wave of ridicule over the weekend after announcing that he would temporarily delay imposing a controversial 50% tariff on European Union goods—a decision that was seen by critics as another instance of erratic policymaking.
Posting on his Truth Social platform, Trump revealed that he had agreed to an extension following a direct request from a key European leader. “I received a call today from Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, requesting an extension on the June 1st deadline on the 50% Tariff with respect to Trade and the European Union,” Trump wrote. “I agreed to the extension — July 9, 2025. It was my privilege to do so.
More: No, Pam Bondi Didn’t Say It’s “Illegal” to Call Yourself ‘The Boss’
More: Trump Appointed Judge Blocks Suspected Assassin’s Attempt to Dismiss Gun Charges
The Commission President said that talks will begin rapidly. Thank you for your attention to this matter!” The announcement marked a sudden reversal from Trump’s hardline trade stance and quickly drew sharp responses from political commentators, economists, and even fellow Republicans. Senator Chris Murphy of Connecticut mocked the inconsistency in a satirical social media post:
“The tariffs are on and it’s a different % per country because of a formula I made up, wait, but now they’re off for everyone but China, oh but now back on! and we are writing letters to tell them the % oh no now it’s 50% on Europe wait now no tariffs on Europe btw,” he wrote. “What a joke.”
Economist Justin Wolfers also joined the chorus of criticism, quipping, “Friday’s EU tariff announcement lasted nearly the whole weekend, or 18% of a Scaramucci.” He added a pointed comparison to his own profession: “One of the things I’ve learned to do as a teacher is to think about realistic deadlines in advance, then put them on the syllabus, and stand by them.
I like to give my students some predictability, and a sense that I take my commitments seriously and expect them to do the same.” Author and commentator James Surowiecki was even more blunt, stating, “Trump backs down from his threat to impose a 50% tariff on the EU.” He then added, “What a clown this guy is.”
A group of Republicans opposed to Trump responded similarly, writing, “Trump backs down from his EU tariff threat. Again.” They added, “What a clown show.” As Trump continues to tease tough trade moves while retreating under pressure, critics argue his approach lacks consistency and credibility, further fueling concerns about the chaos that may accompany a potential second term.
You Might Also Like:
- CDC Issues Travel Warning as Measles Makes a Comeback
- Kate Middleton’s Secretly Prepping for Her Future as Queen
- Kanye West Says He’s Done With His Old Name and Fans Better Catch Up
- 9-Year-Old Tragically Shot by Father in Suspected Murder-Suicide
- Prince Harry reportedly considering changing his surname to ‘Spencer’ amid royal family feud