It’s Not About the Economy, Stupid

It’s Not About the Economy, Stupid

by Gene Johns

In May, reporters asked President Donald Trump whether Americans’ financial situation was a factor in his negotiations with Iran. Trump reportedly responded that he was not thinking about Americans’ financial situation “even a little bit” when making decisions regarding the conflict and negotiations. His stated focus was preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons and addressing what he viewed as national security concerns.

Liberals and Democrats quickly criticized President Trump’s statement that he was not concerned about the economy when dealing with Iran. Some interpreted his remarks as meaning that he does not care about Americans. In my view, that interpretation is incorrect.

President Trump was right to say that concerns about the U.S. economy should not dictate his actions toward Iran. Why? Because allowing economic considerations to limit his response could weaken efforts to achieve the primary objective—eliminating the threat posed by a nuclear-armed Iran to the United States and its allies.

Why do many liberals and Democratic leaders criticize President Trump for his remarks? In my opinion, some oppose him regardless of the issue and are unwilling to acknowledge his successes, even when those successes could benefit the American people.