Shark Tank’s Kevin O’Leary Destroys Anti-Trump Tariff Talking Points Live on CNN [WATCH]

Businessman and investor Kevin O’Leary defended President Donald Trump’s trade policy in a live CNN segment Friday evening, pushing back against criticism of newly implemented reciprocal tariffs and emphasizing their role in restoring fairness to global trade.

O’Leary, known widely for his role on the television show Shark Tank and his blunt business commentary, addressed the ongoing reaction from media and market analysts regarding the Trump administration’s recent tariff expansion, which now includes 60 nations.

Speaking to CNN host Laura Coates, O’Leary downplayed alarm over market volatility and pushed for a broader understanding of the administration’s goals.

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“You know, I try and focus on the signal, not the noise,” O’Leary said.

“Harris is not president. Trump is. And if you didn’t like him 12 years ago and don’t like him now, I get it. But that’s not the issue.”

O’Leary outlined what he views as the actual issue: restoring balance in trade relationships. He cited feedback from multiple nations already reacting to the new tariffs, including Thailand, Cambodia, and members of the European Union.

He also noted U.S. support, pointing out that Sen. John Kennedy of Louisiana has called for zero tariffs between the United States and Canada.

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“Reciprocal tariffs… we’ve got 60 countries on the list,” O’Leary explained. “The whole point is it’s a negotiation.”

He stated that while the tariffs may appear confrontational, the objective is ultimately free trade.

“If you can get the zero tariffs, that’s the best outcome. That’s called free trade. That’s 50% of why these tariffs are put on.”

When challenged by Coates on whether market volatility is harming American consumers, O’Leary acknowledged the fluctuations but urged a long-term view.

“Yeah, I hate volatility,” he said.

“But the market corrects all the time. It generally goes down 15 to 20%. It has proven over a hundred years plus — it’s a great buying opportunity.”

Kevin O’Leary defends President Trump’s reciprocal tariffs with ease on CNN.

“The economy is just fine. Now maybe you don’t like watching sausage being made. Obviously Trump doesn’t care.” pic.twitter.com/CtyLu5eDOP

— Thomas Hern (@ThomasMHern) April 5, 2025

Anthony Scaramucci, former White House communications director and current Trump critic, also joined the CNN segment.

He disputed O’Leary’s assessment, describing the tariff strategy as “arbitrary nonsense” and asserting that it has increased uncertainty in global markets.

“The risk premium in the global markets has now gone up,” Scaramucci said.

“They have no idea what they’re doing.”

O’Leary pushed back, dismissing concerns raised by CEOs who have warned of hiring freezes and potential layoffs due to ongoing uncertainty.

“They shouldn’t be worried. At the end of the day, the opportunity is immense,” O’Leary responded.

He also addressed criticism from Canadian leaders, specifically referencing Mark Carney, the current leader of Canada’s Liberal Party.

“Carney in Canada… is not an elected official. He is a stop-gap measure. He has no mandate from the Canadian people,” O’Leary said.

“His party wiped out the Canadian economy. It’s highly likely he won’t win the election.”

O’Leary suggested that Carney’s public criticism of Trump is intended to distract from domestic political failures.

“Carney is basically saying, ‘I know I wiped out the economy… but don’t worry about that. Let’s just stay focused on the evil Trump south of the border.’”

“Canadians aren’t that stupid,” O’Leary continued.

As debate continues around the Trump administration’s economic strategy, O’Leary emphasized the importance of focusing on long-term results rather than short-term headlines.

The White House has signaled that additional trade negotiations will follow, as impacted nations respond to the evolving tariff framework.

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