Trump damaged the Obama economy he inherited with his trade war, and now appears poised to repeat that move with the Biden economy.
Summary
President Joe Biden touted his administration’s economic recovery efforts, citing job growth, reduced inflation, and infrastructure investments, as he prepares to hand off a strong economy to Donald Trump.
Biden criticized Trump’s proposed steep tariffs on imports, warning they could harm the economy and reintroduce inflation.
Trump plans tariffs against China, Mexico, and Canada, raising concerns about trade disruptions similar to those seen during his first term.
Economists caution that such policies could quickly reverse recent economic gains and weaken the U.S. economy.
The President cannot direct the Treasury to send money without congressional approval due to the U.S. Constitution's Appropriations Clause, which grants Congress the exclusive power to authorize federal spending[3][4]. While the President has some discretion in spending appropriated funds, any attempt to unilaterally spend or withhold funds without congressional authorization would likely face legal challenges and violate the separation of powers[1][3][4]. The Impoundment Control Act of 1974 further restricts the President from withholding funds appropriated by Congress[1][4].