The U. S. economy was in a tough spot.  President Trump had thrown a wrench into global trade.  He slapped huge tariffs on both friends and foes.  This made for an unusual gathering of former Treasury secretaries.  They usually welcome the new secretary with smiles and light chat.  But this time, the mood was heavy.

Steven T. Mnuchin, a former Treasury Secretary, hosted the dinner.  It was on President Trump's "Liberation Day. "  The new Treasury Secretary, Scott Bessent, was in the hot seat.  He had to defend Trump's tariffs.  Many in the room thought these tariffs were a bad move.  They saw them as economic trouble.

W. Michael Blumenthal was there.  He led the Treasury Department during the Carter administration.  He was 99 years old but sharp as ever.  He described the mood as somber.  The room was filled with tension.  Bessent had to answer tough questions.  He had to explain the plan behind the tariffs.  He had to talk about how they would affect the economy.

At times, Bessent raised his voice.  This happened when his predecessors challenged him.  They questioned Trump's approach.  Bessent had to stand his ground.  He had to defend a policy that many in the room disagreed with.  It was a night of tough conversations and differing views.

Trade wars are never easy.  They bring uncertainty and tension.  This dinner showed the strain.  It showed the divide.  The new Treasury Secretary had a tough job.  He had to navigate these choppy waters.  He had to defend a policy that many saw as risky.  It was a night that highlighted the challenges of leading in uncertain times.

ECONOMIC POLICY DEBATE

Trade Wars and the Treasury Secretary's Tough Night

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