Episode description

In the latest episode of “Talking Trade,” Michael Best Strategies Partner Sarah Helton discusses the impact new tariffs may have domestically and on major U.S. trading partners. 

Helton, the firm’s practice group chair for government procurement and trade, says President Trump’s newly enacted tariffs on steel and aluminum and other goods have created a “period of uncertainty” for the international trade landscape. 

“There hasn’t been much time for anyone to take a breath, so everyone is trying to understand exactly what is included in all these actions, what this means, what the implications are,” Helton said during the interview, which was recorded Feb. 13. 

The conversation touches on the possibility for exclusions and exemptions under the tariffs, retaliatory actions by other nations, the political conversation surrounding Trump’s trade moves and more. 

Helton weighs in on possible strategic goals underpinning the tariffs, noting Trump’s approach may be “his mechanism to be able to bring China to the table” in trade negotiations. 

“They understand the pain points related to, you know, controls on critical minerals and what that means for the necessity for production of defense materials here in the United States,” she said, adding “it’s a signal to each, right, of flexing muscles, but also too of understanding the best way forward would be through cooperation.” 

Helton shares her thoughts on questions around the legality of the tariffs, noting she expects some to be challenged in court. Earlier challenges to certain tariffs “were largely unsuccessful,” she said, noting courts have been reluctant to take action when national security is involved. 

She also touches on the role of Congress in the tariff discussion, saying she “would be highly surprised” if lawmakers were to move forward with legislation related to tariffs. 

“I think they’ll have to keep their constituents in mind,” she said. “There’s a lot of their constituents that are highly impacted by these tariffs, and not necessarily in positive ways.” 

The podcast is hosted by Wasylik, head of E.M Wasylik Associates, and M.E. Dey & Co. President and Managing Director Sandi Siegel.