Trump's Tariff War Sparks Elite Backlash

As markets dip, inflation fears rise, and global partners bristle, a deeper issue is emerging: a civil war within the Republican donor class.

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A revolt is brewing within Donald Trump's own financial base. The former allies who once bankrolled his political rise are now publicly denouncing his aggressive new tariff policy for 2025. With tariffs soaring up to 54% on Chinese goods—and affecting strategic partners like India, Brazil, and Vietnam—America's ultra-wealthy elite is up in arms.

This isn't just about money. Elon Musk, Jamie Dimon, Bill Ackman, and other top business moguls who helped fund Trump's 2024 comeback are loudly rejecting his trade strategy. As markets dip, inflation fears rise, and global partners bristle, a deeper issue is emerging: a civil war within the Republican donor class, challenging the future direction of the party.

GOP ELITE TURNS AGAINST TRUMP Unlike past disputes over tariffs, this moment is marked by who's doing the criticizing. Prominent Republican megadonors and business titans are challenging Trump's worldview. From Silicon Valley to Wall Street, their objections go beyond profit margins—they're questioning Trump's economic grasp.

These figures aren't just wealthy—many are influential architects of GOP ideology and strategy. Their dissent threatens to fracture Republican unity just as Trump gears up for a possible third term. The rift is no longer about policy alone; it's about control over the party's identity.

ELON MUSK Elon Musk, long seen as one of Trump's closest business allies, is no longer standing by him. Musk has taken to social media, advocating for a zero-tariff world and sharing a video of economist Milton Friedman promoting free trade. He openly mocked Trump's top trade adviser Peter Navarro, saying Navarro had "ain't built shit."