Part 2/8:
Trump’s assertion is anchored in a historical perspective, noting that the United States functioned without an income tax until 1913. During the years from 1870 to 1913, tariffs served as the primary source of government revenue. According to Trump, this era marked one of the wealthiest periods in American history. He emphasizes that a smaller government is key to achieving economic prosperity, suggesting that efficiency can be realized through programs designed to cut wasteful spending.