Fact Check: Trump promised 90 trade deals in 90 days, but only one is done.

Fact Check: "Trump promised 90 trade deals in 90 days, but only one is done."

What We Know

The claim that "Trump promised 90 trade deals in 90 days, but only one is done" refers to statements made by former President Donald Trump during his administration regarding trade agreements. In 2017, Trump did indeed express ambitions to renegotiate or establish numerous trade deals, particularly emphasizing the need to address trade deficits and improve terms for American workers. However, the specific figure of "90 trade deals" is not explicitly documented in a single statement or speech.

During his presidency, the most notable trade agreement was the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which replaced the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). This agreement was signed in November 2018 and implemented on July 1, 2020, indicating that while Trump aimed for significant trade negotiations, the timeline and outcomes were more complex than initially suggested.

Analysis

The assertion that only one trade deal was completed within a 90-day timeframe lacks context and specificity. While it is true that the USMCA was a significant achievement, the claim does not account for the broader context of trade negotiations that were ongoing throughout Trump's presidency. For instance, the administration also engaged in negotiations with China, which culminated in the Phase One trade deal signed in January 2020. This deal was aimed at addressing various trade issues, including tariffs and intellectual property rights.

Furthermore, the claim's reliability hinges on the interpretation of Trump's statements and the expectations set during his campaign. Many of Trump's promises regarding trade were characterized by high ambition but faced challenges in execution due to political, economic, and logistical factors. The complexity of international trade negotiations often means that outcomes are not as straightforward as initially proposed.

The sources of this claim are not provided, which raises questions about its origin and the context in which it was made. Without credible sources to substantiate the claim, it remains ambiguous and potentially misleading.

Conclusion

Needs Research. The claim that Trump promised "90 trade deals in 90 days, but only one is done" is an oversimplification of a complex issue. While there were significant trade negotiations during his presidency, the specific promise and its fulfillment require more nuanced examination. The lack of clear sources and the ambiguity surrounding the claim necessitate further investigation to determine its accuracy and context.