The President’s tariff plan is a jarring consequence stemming from the belief that America is being left behind by the current economic world order. That is hard to believe when our economy is the largest and healthiest in the world with an annual GDP over $30 trillion. As recently as October 2024 The Economist described our economy as “the envy of the world” which had “left other rich countries in the dust.”

The power to tariff ultimately rests with our Congress, and they need to reassert themselves before we slide into a recession or worse.

This week Congressman Blake Moore replied to my concerns over Congress’ inaction over the executive branch’s overreach. His response was clear, succinct, and laudable, but in no way reflects the reality of what is actually happening in our nation’s capital.

Congressman Moore wrote, “The American people elected President Trump to bring change to the government. While it is expected that the President acts to align the administration with his priorities, Congress must always retain its oversight power. One of the fundamental responsibilities of Congress is to provide checks and balances on the other branches of government, and I am committed to exercising this constitutional duty regardless of who the president is. One of my priorities in Congress is to roll back the powers that Congress has unnecessarily ceded to the executive branch. I firmly believe that Congress should be the body debating and making policies impacting the lives of millions of Americans.”

That’s a wonderful response – now it’s time for Congress to actually do it!

Chris Morgan

Lt. Colonel, USAF (retired)

Ogden