President Donald Trump’s tariff policies have created significant economic chaos and uncertainty in the U.S. One uncertainty index of economic policy, dating back to 1985, has only been higher once in the past 40 years—during the onset of the coronavirus pandemic. However, the current situation is self-inflicted. The unpredictability of Trump’s tariff policies, including their size, nature, timing, and justifications, has left markets and businesses struggling to adapt. This unpredictability affects not only trade relations with major partners like Canada, the European Union, Mexico, and China but also infrastructure projects requiring long-term planning. Small businesses are particularly vulnerable due to their inability to absorb shocks or keep up with daily tariff changes. Additionally, labor markets may be paralyzed by uncertainty, as employers hesitate to hire and employees avoid leaving secure positions. Despite claims of an ‘economic masterplan,’ the lack of consistency in justifications for these tariffs raises skepticism. Ideologues across the political spectrum criticize American voters’ materialism, yet the rapid shift in Republican attitudes towards inflationary effects of tariffs is notable. Ultimately, consumers remain prioritized over political affiliations.