Trump proposes “freedom cities” and tariffs on imported goods for 2024 run

Donald Trump, a potential candidate for the 2024 presidential election, proposed the construction of up to 10 futuristic “freedom cities” on federal land as part of his plan to revitalize America and restore its boldness.

As part of this vision, Trump also envisioned the use of flying cars for commuting, reminiscent of “The Jetsons” cartoon. While several major companies are working on the development of vertical takeoff and landing vehicles, they are not expected to be available to the public for several years.

In a four-minute video outlining his plan, Trump emphasized the need for America to lead the revolution in air mobility rather than China. He announced his candidacy for the presidency in November.

Donald Trump announced his plan to launch a competition to build up to 10 “freedom cities” on undeveloped federal land, similar in size to Washington, DC.

The proposed “freedom cities” would give families a chance to own a home and pursue the American dream, according to Trump. The cities would also spark imagination and reopen the frontier.

Trump proposes “freedom cities” and other policies for 2024 presidential run

Trump’s announcement coincides with his upcoming speech at the Conservative Political Action Conference and the early stages of the 2024 Republican presidential race.

Donald Trump has recently made several policy proposals, including plans to increase domestic energy production, adopt a more isolationist foreign policy, and remove what he sees as warmongers and globalists from government and military positions. 

He also wants to undo a Biden executive order promoting equity by requiring public plans from government agencies. His latest proposal involves the creation of up to 10 “freedom cities” on federal land.

As part of his “free speech platform” in December, Trump vowed to ban federal funding for labeling speech as misinformation or disinformation and to cut federal funding to universities engaged in censorship activities. He has also announced plans to take on tech companies if he wins the 2024 presidential election, appealing to his conservative base.

On Friday, Trump failed to explain how he would fund his latest proposal or clarify the differences between his plan and similar Democratic proposals, which raises questions about how Republicans in Washington will limit federal spending.

The plan Trump presented, which lacked specifics, includes raising tariffs on imports, providing “baby bonuses” to families to stimulate a new baby boom, and a beautification initiative to eliminate “ugly” buildings and rejuvenate public spaces.

Trump did not specify the amount or eligibility criteria for the “baby bonuses.” It remains unclear how his proposal differs from the expired child tax credit, which was not renewed beyond 2021. In December, a group of Democratic lawmakers and progressive advocates attempted, but failed, to include the proposal in the $1.7 trillion spending package, as it was blocked by Republicans.

Trump’s Proposed Tariffs on Imported Goods and Chinese Trade Battle

On Friday, Trump advocated for universal tariffs and higher taxes on imported goods, particularly targeting China in a trade battle he began during his tenure in the White House. He claimed this move would spur American manufacturing.

President Joe Biden has retained the tariffs imposed by Trump on nearly two-thirds of Chinese goods, amounting to $350 billion worth of imports to the US.

According to experts, the tariffs are increasing the cost of goods for American consumers and adding to inflation.

Last year, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen noted that the tariffs on Chinese goods have had a greater negative impact on American consumers and businesses than on China.

Chris Rupkey, the chief economist at market research firm FwdBonds, commented that Trump’s proposed economic plan is reminiscent of his pre-presidential efforts as a real estate developer.

According to Rupkey, “Builders build and make dreams a reality, but this plan looks like a stretch because the country cannot afford to undertake massive new projects when the national debt is over $31 trillion.” Rupkey further explained in an email that “There are some interesting ideas here, but this is not the right time for bold plans that dream big. There’s no money left in Uncle Sam’s till to pay for big dreams and daring projects.”

Rupkey emphasized that the nation is currently facing a “cost-of-living crisis,” making this proposal too expensive to implement.