Tariff rebate checks are a terrible idea

Tariffs are a terrible idea to begin with. Imposing a massive new tax regime on families is economically illiterate, morally lamentable, and politically insane, but assuming President Donald Trump and his team really are committed to their unfortunate tariff experiment long-term, the least they could do is not make matters worse.

Many Republicans seem determined to do just that. Last month, Sen. Josh Hawley (R-MO) introduced legislation that would distribute tariff revenue to taxpayers in the form of a $600 rebate check.