### **Record Tariff Revenue Under Trump: Where Does the Money Go?**
President Donald Trump has frequently highlighted the unprecedented tariff revenue the U.S. government has collected since imposing steep taxes on imported goods. In July alone, tariff revenue surged by 242%, reaching nearly $30 billion—part of a $100 billion total collected since April. While Trump has suggested using these funds to pay down the national debt or issue „tariff rebate checks” to Americans, neither has materialized yet. Instead, the revenue flows into the Treasury’s general fund, helping offset the $1.3 trillion budget deficit by reducing the need for additional borrowing. Economists note that while this may ease debt pressures, tariffs still pose economic risks, including potential inflation and slower GDP growth.
### **How Tariff Revenue Impacts the U.S. Economy**
Tariff revenue, like other federal income, is pooled into the Treasury’s general fund, which covers government expenses such as tax refunds. While the influx of tariff money doesn’t eliminate the deficit, it lessens borrowing needs, reducing interest payments on the $36 trillion national debt. However, critics argue that tariffs could backfire by raising consumer prices and stifling job growth. Recent inflation reports show price hikes in appliances, electronics, and other tariff-sensitive goods, with major companies like Walmart warning of further increases. Additionally, economic surveys suggest that tariff uncertainty has led businesses to slow hiring, potentially weakening job market growth.
### **Debate Over Tariff Rebates and Economic Consequences**
Trump’s proposal to send „tariff rebate checks” to Americans—mirroring a bill by Sen. Josh Hawley—could worsen the deficit and fuel inflation, according to economists. While the administration argues that tariffs, combined with tax cuts, will boost the economy, analysts like Ernie Tedeschi of Yale’s Budget Lab estimate that tariffs could reduce U.S. GDP growth by half a percentage point in 2024 and 2025. The long-term economic impact remains uncertain, as businesses grapple with higher costs and consumers face potential price increases. Despite the short-term revenue gains, tariffs may ultimately impose hidden costs on the broader economy.
Ez a cikk a Neural News AI (V1) verziójával készült.
Forrás: https://www.cnn.com/2025/08/06/economy/government-tariff-revenue.