Warren Criticizes Bezos Over Tariff Transparency Concerns
Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren sharply criticized Amazon founder Jeff Bezos on Wednesday following the company’s denial of reports regarding a plan to disclose tariff costs alongside item prices on its marketplace. Warren accused Bezos of retracting the initiative after discussions with President Donald Trump, suggesting it exemplified a trend of Big Tech colluding with Trump for special favors.
According to Punchbowl News, Amazon had intended to inform consumers about the impact of tariffs on product prices. Warren argued that this transparency could have provided Americans with a clearer understanding of the economic effects stemming from Trump’s tariff policies. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt labeled the proposed plan as a "hostile and political act" by Amazon.
During a press conference, Trump commented positively on his interaction with Bezos, describing it as prompt and effective in resolving the issue. This endorsement raised eyebrows amid Warren’s allegations of quid pro quo between Big Tech and the Trump administration.
Amazon responded to the reports by clarifying that the initiative to reveal import costs was merely considered for its “ultra low cost Amazon Haul store” and had never received approval. Consequently, the company confirmed it would not move forward with the plan.
Warren expressed disappointment in her letter to Bezos, emphasizing that disclosing tariff costs could help consumers understand the implications of the high tariffs, some reaching as much as 145% on products from China. The senator’s criticism ties into broader concerns about the rising prices of goods due to these tariffs, a phenomenon the Federal Reserve has warned may occur as a result of Trump’s trade policies.
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