Trump Credits Tariffs for Surprisingly Strong Economic Growth

The gross domestic product (GDP) grew in the third quarter by 4.3 percent, outpacing forecasts, according to a Commerce Department estimate.

President Donald Trump delivers remarks on reciprocal tariffs during his "Liberation Day" event in the Rose Garden at the White House on April 2, 2025. Brendan Smialowski/AFP via Getty Images

President Donald Trump on Dec. 23 said that his tariffs led to a significant expansion of the U.S. economy, after a federal agency released its estimates for the third quarter of 2025.

The U.S. gross domestic product (GDP) grew by 4.3 percent with an increase in consumer spending and exports, according to an estimate released by the Department of Commerce on Dec. 23.