“As far as merchandise is concerned, folks will have to buy less, which is better if what they’re buying is made in the USA.”
Thank you for admitting that trade has improved the standard of living and that tariffs will result in lowering that standard.
How did you ever derive that from what I stated? Buying less and making things last longer, not getting goods that are overpriced for endorsements or whatever, and shifting to made-in-USA preferences will cut down on frivolous purchases, but do NOTHING to improve ones standard of living.
Supply and demand will keep the cost of things in line.