Scott Bessent FIRES BACK as reporter presses whether tariffs are taxes

Why are the president's tariffs not taxes on imported goods?

That's easy because tariffs are a surcharge, not a tax. They could be paid by the exporter. They could be paid by the country. When you go and get your driver's license, you pay a fee. Is that a tax?

Is it a tax?

I'm asking you a question, sir.

And I just appreciate the answer to it.

Thank you. Thank you.

Well, I'm giving you an answer that maybe you don't like.