Seth Meyers Takes on Trump’s Latest Tariff Proposals and Plummeting Approval Ratings

Ben Thompson, Culture Editor
5 Min Read
⏱️ 4 min read

In a sharp and humorous critique, Seth Meyers addressed Donald Trump’s recent claims regarding the 2020 election and his controversial tariff plans on Canadian goods during last night’s episode of *Late Night with Seth Meyers*. The host’s commentary underscored Trump’s dwindling approval ratings, which have reportedly sunk lower than those of any other modern president, including George W. Bush during the Iraq War.

Trump’s Approval Ratings Hit Rock Bottom

Meyers opened the segment by discussing a recent Washington Post poll that revealed Trump’s approval ratings have reached an all-time low for a 21st-century president. “Trump is doing worse than Bush during the Iraq war – and remember, Bush had a pair of shoes thrown at him,” Meyers pointed out, adding a touch of humour to an otherwise serious topic. He likened Trump’s lack of political agility to someone who wouldn’t know how to evade a shoe aimed at them, suggesting that the former president’s popularity is notably waning among independents and those without party allegiance.

The host quipped about the “troubling” nature of Trump’s ratings, jokingly stating, “That’s a real understatement,” and comparing the situation to a doctor’s grim diagnosis. “If your doctor came in with an X-ray and said, ‘You have 27 Matchbox cars lodged in your rectum,’ that’s quite a bit more serious than just ‘troubling’. You’re in dire straits!”

Accusations of Election Interference

Turning to Trump’s allegations that China manipulated the 2020 election by illegally acquiring voter files, Meyers couldn’t resist mocking the former president’s logic. “This happened in 2020, you say?” he asked incredulously. “Man, whoever was president back then must feel like an idiot right now.” He further questioned Trump’s mental state, suggesting he sounded intoxicated while making such claims, likening him to “10 beers deep at a frat party”.

Meyers also clarified that much of the voter data Trump claims was stolen is publicly accessible or can be legally purchased, dismissing the former president’s assertions. “You can buy anything online,” he said, emphasising that even Trump’s own team had acknowledged the lack of evidence for widespread election fraud.

Tariffs on Canadian Imports: A Bold Move

The late-night host then pivoted to Trump’s recently announced tariff plans, which include hefty fees of up to 50% on various Canadian imports, notably hockey sticks. Meyers reacted with disbelief, exclaiming, “Hockey sticks? So you’re just a total dick. You might as well slap a tariff on Molson, maple syrup, and the concept of apologising.” His biting humour struck a chord, highlighting the absurdity of such tariffs and their implications for US-Canada relations.

Meyers elaborated on the potential ramifications of these tariffs, suggesting that it would be akin to Canada imposing levies on quintessentially American products. “It’s like imposing tariffs on something as American as gambling on crypto while sitting on the toilet,” he quipped, painting a vivid picture of the ridiculousness of the situation.

Voter Restrictions and Their Consequences

Meyers also addressed Trump’s push for stringent voter ID laws that would require individuals to present passports or birth certificates at polling stations. “Who the hell knows where their birth certificate is?” he asked, revealing the impracticality of such a demand. “I’m guessing mine’s in a manila folder somewhere between takeout menus and photos of my brother.”

This commentary highlights the potential disenfranchisement of millions who may struggle to produce the required documentation, raising concerns about the accessibility of voting in America.

Why it Matters

Meyers’ take on Trump’s latest antics serves as a reminder of the current political climate, characterised by deepening divisions and controversial policies that could have lasting impacts on both domestic and international fronts. As the former president’s popularity falters, the implications of his proposed tariffs and voting restrictions will reverberate beyond the political realm, affecting everyday lives and the fabric of American democracy. The late-night host’s incisive humour not only entertains but also provokes critical thought about these pressing issues.

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Ben Thompson is a cultural commentator and arts journalist who has written extensively on film, television, music, and the creative industries. With a background in film studies from Bristol University, he spent five years as a culture writer at The Guardian before joining The Update Desk. He hosts a popular podcast exploring the intersection of art and society.
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