Part 13/15:
Bessent’s nomination signals strong support for Trump’s protectionist economic policies and his emphasis on tariffs as strategic negotiation tools. In recent interviews, Bessent has expressed admiration for Trump’s economic acumen compared to Vice President Kamala Harris, whom he criticized as "economic illiterate." He advocates for aggressive trade reforms, including the use of tariffs to bolster Treasury revenue, strengthen trade negotiations, and promote fair competition.