If there’s one thing Americans love, it’s a good success story. And there are few better rags-to-riches tales than that of MrBeast, the YouTube sensation turned entrepreneur. But recently, this self-made millionaire has found himself at odds with a foundational policy of American economic strength — the Trump administration’s tariffs on imported goods. By dismissing these tariffs as a “nail in the coffin” for small businesses, MrBeast — born Jimmy Donaldson — misses the bigger picture of strategic economic resilience and protecting American workers.
Here’s the heart of the matter: President Trump’s tariffs are not a callous burden on small businesses but rather a decisive strategy to correct years of economic imbalance that have put American jobs at risk. Through these tariffs, the administration aims to level the playing field, restore American manufacturing, and safeguard our economic independence from foreign manipulation. Indeed, this is about fortifying America’s future in the global economy.
Ironically because of all the new tariffs it is now way cheaper to make our chocolate bars we sell globally NOT in America because other countries don’t have a 20%+ tariff on our cogs ?
— MrBeast (@MrBeast) April 8, 2025
Ironically because of all the new tariffs it is now way cheaper to make our chocolate bars we sell globally NOT in America because other countries don’t have a 20%+ tariff on our cogs ?
— MrBeast (@MrBeast) April 8, 2025
America was built on the strength of its resolve — the tenacity of its people and the fairness of its systems. While Jimmy Donaldson’s concern for small businesses is understandable from an emotive standpoint, let’s not forget the toll taken on U.S. industries by decades of unfair foreign competition. For instance, the U.S. domestic shrimp industry has been decimated by cheaper, unfairly traded imports, which is why businesses like Bosarge Boats have hailed the tariffs as a “lifeline” thrown out to them in tumultuous seas.
Similarly, take the tech industry. For years, Silicon Valley has been undermined by intellectual property theft and illegal trade practices from overseas. With Trump’s policies, we’re seeing a resurgence in domestic tech investment and innovation, which spells long-term growth and sustainability for American businesses and provides new opportunities to countless hardworking Americans.
But why, you might ask, does all of this matter? Well, if we are to remain the world’s leading economy — a beacon of freedom and opportunity — we need to defend against those who would profit from our downfall. Tariffs are one tool in that fight, ensuring that American goods and services can compete fairly in the marketplace. When MrBeast argues that tariffs place small businesses in peril, what he overlooks is the broader peril of a country that doesn’t produce its essential goods and is perpetually reliant on the whims and goodwill of foreign powers.
In the current landscape, small businesses do face undeniable challenges, but these are also opportunities to innovate and adapt. By recalibrating supply chains, sourcing locally, and embracing new technology, small businesses can not only survive but thrive. Elsewhere, seafood harvesters are finding their footing again, and American manufacturers are bringing jobs back home, all thanks to policies that demand fair trade.
Furthermore, the current tariffs send a potent message: America won’t stand idly by while foreign regimes and corporations undermine our economy. When China’s Xi Jinping imposed retaliatory tariffs, he underestimated the resolve of the American people and their President. This administration’s response — a tough, 104 percent tariff on Chinese imports — is crucial to holding adversaries accountable while ensuring Americans are not shortchanged in the global marketplace.
So, while it may be tempting for influencers like MrBeast to view these tariffs through the lens of short-term inconvenience, it is imperative that we appreciate the far-reaching implications of these policies. This isn’t just about chocolate bars; it’s about our national sovereignty and economic security. By looking beyond the immediate impact and considering the long game, we can ensure that America remains a bastion of innovation, opportunity, and prosperity.
Bro, why are you manufacturing the entire thing in another country? The farming makes obvious sense. The entire point of the tariffs is you
— Erroneous Input (@I_Like_Buttes) April 8, 2025
Aren’t you the same guy that brags and boasts that you took a heavy money loss in the beginning so that you can make the big money later? That is literally the exact same concept. Don’t be a hypocrite, move on, and stop talking politics.
— Ghost (@ghostsystemss) April 8, 2025
MrBeast’s concerns are noted, but let’s focus on the larger objective: strengthening America’s position as a global economic leader, because history has shown us that when America leads, the world follows. It’s time to rally behind policies that empower us, not weaken our resolve.
