US Trade Policies Questioned: Kennedy Grills Lutnick on Vietnam Tariffs

Washington, D.C. - June 4, 2025. A recent Newsweek video captures a heated exchange between Senator John Kennedy (R-LA) and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick during a Senate hearing. The focus was on the Trump administration's tariffs and their impact on trade with Vietnam. Senator Kennedy challenged Secretary Lutnick, stating, "If Vietnam came tomorrow and said, 'Okay, Mr. Secretary, you win, we're going to remove all tariffs and trade barriers,' would the United States do the same?" Lutnick responded, "Absolutely not. That would be the silliest thing we could do." The exchange highlights the complexities of trade negotiations and the challenges of achieving reciprocity. Lutnick emphasized Vietnam's substantial exports to the U.S. and the role of China in the supply chain. The discussion underscores the need for a more nuanced approach to trade policy, considering the interconnected nature of global markets. The debate continues on whether the current trade policies are effective in achieving fair and balanced outcomes.