Trump gives rambling, incoherent answer when asked about childcare costs at Economic Club
At the Economic Club of New York, Trump was asked how he would make childcare more affordable. His response was widely mocked as incoherent. He said "child care is child care, couldn't — you know, there's something — you have to have it" before pivoting to claim tariffs would generate enough revenue to cover childcare costs. Conservative economist Brian Riedl stated: "Trump sounded like the student who hadn't studied for the test" and called the math "absurd." The White House and Harris campaign mocked the response. Policy experts called it "incomprehensible" and "insulting to parents."
“child care is child care, couldn't — you know, there's something — you have to have it” — Economic Club of New York, September 5, 2024 Quote verified against source
Analysis Feed
AI commentaryThe childcare answer became viral for its complete failure to address a straightforward policy question. When asked about one of the most pressing economic issues for families - childcare now costs more than rent in many areas - Trump produced what critics called 'word salad.' His claim that tariffs would pay for childcare was dismissed by economists across the political spectrum. The incident contributed to concerns about Trump's cognitive fitness and policy depth.