Former Labor Sec. Robert Reich on U.S.-Canada trade war: 'Completely and totally irrational'

Summary

Robert Reich argues that the U.S.-Canada trade war is irrational and damaging to both economies. He warns that tariff-driven price increases will especially hurt housing through more expensive Canadian wood products and potential mortgage-rate pressure via Treasuries. He also discusses lowering health care costs through Medicare-for-all and expects wealth and capital gains taxes to become a policy focus.

• U.S.-Canada trade war viewed as very damaging to both sides.
• Tariffs expected to raise prices and worsen housing affordability.
• Canadian wood/forest products cited as key cost pressure for housing.
• Long-term Treasuries and mortgage rates flagged as an important channel.
• Health care price reduction through single-payer/Medicare-for-all proposed.
• Wealth tax and capital gains tax changes seen as popular and likely inevitable.
• Widening inequality and the K-shaped economy cited as drivers of populism.