Gerstner frames Trump's 25% tariff threat as negotiating anchor to achieve objectives, not final position.
“He's gonna raise these tariffs in order to achieve national objectives, and then he's gonna be willing to negotiate away from them, but only if he achieves the national objectives.”
Gerstner cites Scott Bessent describing Trump's tariff strategy as loaded gun that will rarely be discharged.
“His nominee to be treasury secretary, Scott Bessent, has said, quote, the tariff gun will be loaded but rarely discharged, end quote.”