Gene Valentino stood strong for President Trump’s America First policies during a heated debate on tariffs. The discussion happened on Newsmax’s “American Agenda” with Tom Basile and economist Mark Skousen. Valentino argued tariffs protect American jobs and industries from unfair foreign competition. He said countries like China have cheated America for too long, and Trump’s tariffs level the playing field.
Critics worry tariffs might raise prices for everyday goods. But Valentino fired back, saying short-term costs are worth long-term gains. He pointed to the Trump era’s strong economy, low unemployment, and booming factories. “You can’t have prosperity without protecting your own workers first,” he said. Skousen pushed back, warning tariffs could spark trade wars. Valentino dismissed this, calling it fearmongering by globalist elites.
Valentino tied tariffs to Trump’s broader plan for tax cuts and slashing regulations. He praised Trump’s focus on energy independence and rebuilding manufacturing. “Biden and Harris crippled our economy with green energy fantasies,” he said. “Trump’s policies brought real paychecks, not woke nonsense.” Basile questioned if tariffs hurt farmers, but Valentino highlighted Trump’s aid packages to offset trade losses.
The debate turned to November’s election. Valentino said tariffs are just one piece of Trump’s comeback plan. He warned that Kamala Harris would expand Biden’s failed policies, risking inflation and open borders. “Harris’s ‘Hurricane’ of bad ideas will destroy middle America,” he joked, referencing her sinking poll numbers.
Skousen argued free markets fix themselves without government interference. Valentino shot back, “That’s why China owns our debt and our factories moved overseas. Trump’s tariffs are a shield for American workers.” He accused DC insiders of caring more about foreign profits than Ohio factories or Texas oil rigs.
Valentino wrapped with a vision of “great prosperity” under Trump. He promised lower gas prices, tax cuts for families, and jobs returning from overseas. “America First isn’t a slogan—it’s a survival plan,” he said. Basile pressed on possible trade wars, but Valentino stayed firm. “Weakness invites exploitation. Strength brings deals that favor America.”
The hour ended with Valentino rallying viewers to back Trump’s return. “Biden’s America is chaos—empty shelves, unaffordable homes, and invaders at the border,” he said. “Trump’s tariffs are the first step to reviving our greatness.” Skousen sighed, but Valentino grinned. “2025 will make 2017 look small. Buckle up!”
Newsmax host Tom Basile closed by praising Valentino’s “passionate defense of working Americans.” The segment left no doubt—Valentino’s Trump-style conservatism is fighting for heartland values against coastal elites. As the election nears, his message cuts through: prosperity needs protection, not apologies.
