The current trade/tariff war has put the U.S. economy at a crossroads as analysts fear an economic “correction” while administration officials predict growth for years to come. Continued trade protectionism keeps prices high for millions of American consumers while inviting other countries to keep American goods off their own markets. Fortunately, a trade opportunity sitting at the administration’s doorstep would be a boon to American commerce and even pave the way for 5G wireless deployment. Negotiating and implementing a free-trade agreement (FTA) with Taiwan would boost American credibility in Asia, signaling to countries across the region that the U.S. is once again open for business.

If lawmakers have been keeping up with their Taxpayers Protection Alliance Summer Readings this August recess, they’ve picked up vital information on key issues ranging from harm reduction, 5G deployment, and beach umbrellas. These issues are of course very different, but products associated with these issue areas (vaping devices, cell phones, and beach umbrellas) have all experienced price increases due to the Trump administration’s misguided tariff policies. Thanks to an endless trade war with China and other countries, prices on…pretty much everything are far higher than they need to be. Members of Congress must press the Trump administration to reach a deal with China ASAP, or at least before they head to the (shopping) mall for their fall wardrobe (at taxpayers’ expense).