These should focus primarily on Trump’s tariffs, as follows:
- Does Trump intend to impose universal tariffs?
- What authority will he rely on for that purpose? Does he plan to seek legislative authority, or go it alone?
- For what purpose will the universal tariffs be imposed? Will they be a temporary measure to reduce trade barriers in the rest of the world, or a permanent attempt to create an economy based on import substitution and the recreation of fading industries?
- How will the administration respond when our trading partners retaliate?
- Where will the money come from to provide compensation to the victims of retaliation?
- What standards will be established to provide exemptions for the tariffs? Who will be responsible for administering them?
- Will the tariffs be applied to goods that are not, and cannot be, produced in our country?
- Do you believe, as Trump apparently does, that foreigners will pay all of the tariffs, and there will be no resulting inflation? What historical experience do you rely on for that opinion?
- You and Trump have indicated that America can produce even more energy than it does today, thereby lowering consumer prices. Lower prices will reduce the incentives to drill. How do you plan to overcome the market on this issue?
- How is reducing public investment in renewable energy consistent with your plan to make America an energy powerhouse?