Trump tariffs gut manufacturing as jobs shrink for 9 months straight

Published: Tuesday, December 2, 2025 at 1:01 am

Manufacturing Sector Shrinks Under Trump, Reversing Biden-Era Gains

A recent survey from the Institute for Supply Management reveals a concerning trend in the manufacturing sector: job losses for the ninth consecutive month. This downturn marks a significant reversal of the growth experienced during the previous administration. Experts are pointing to the re-implementation of tariffs as a primary driver of this contraction.

Economists like Carl Weinberg of High Frequency Economics have described the sector as "sick," highlighting the severity of the situation. This decline echoes a pattern observed during Trump's first term, where the country experienced a net job loss, a first in the history of job statistics. The manufacturing sector saw a loss of approximately 178,000 jobs during that period.

In contrast, the previous administration oversaw a resurgence in manufacturing, restoring the sector to pre-pandemic levels. The current situation is attributed to the uncertainty created by tariffs, which are discouraging investment and reducing consumer spending. Companies are hesitant to commit to long-term projects when faced with unpredictable trade policies.

Furthermore, the current administration's actions have also impacted the manufacturing sector. The elimination of green energy programs, which had been areas of growth, has contributed to the downturn. The previous administration's Inflation Reduction Act, which funded clean energy projects, fostered job growth in the sector.

The Democratic Party has criticized the current administration's handling of manufacturing jobs, accusing it of prioritizing the interests of the wealthy over working families. The economic challenges have already had political consequences, with Democratic candidates capitalizing on affordability concerns in recent elections.

BNN's Perspective: The data paints a clear picture of a struggling manufacturing sector. While tariffs may be intended to protect domestic industries, their impact on investment and consumer spending appears to be detrimental. A balanced approach that considers both trade protection and economic stability is crucial for ensuring long-term growth and job creation in this vital sector.

Keywords: manufacturing jobs, tariffs, economic downturn, job losses, President Trump, President Biden, trade policy, economic growth, clean energy, Inflation Reduction Act

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