**Trump Pledges Tough Tariffs on Mexican Goods to Curb Immigration if Elected**

Former President Donald Trump, in a rally held in Raleigh, North Carolina, announced his intention to impose a 25% tariff on all goods from Mexico if the country fails to aid in reducing immigration into the United States. Trump made this declaration as part of his broader strategy to address the immigration issue, emphasizing immediate action if he wins on Election Day.

"I’m going to inform her on day one or sooner that if they don't stop this onslaught of criminals and drugs coming into our country, I’m going to immediately impose a 25% tariff on everything they send into the United States of America," Trump stated, referring to Mexico's president.

He asserted that his proposal has a "100% chance of working," suggesting that if the initial 25% tariff doesn't yield results, he would escalate measures to 50% and then 75% tariffs. Trump believes these actions would compel Mexico to take necessary measures to halt illegal immigration and drug trafficking into the U.S.

In addition to the proposed tariffs on Mexican goods, Trump has outlined a stringent tariff plan affecting other nations. This includes a 60% tariff on Chinese goods, 10% tariffs on goods from various other countries, and a 100% tariff on every car manufactured in Mexico. These tariffs are part of his broader goal to support U.S. manufacturing by making imported goods more expensive.

Economists, however, have cautioned that these tariffs could lead to higher prices for U.S. consumers and potentially slow economic growth. They warn that other countries might retaliate with their own tariffs on U.S. exports, leading to a trade war that could harm both economies.

Moreover, Trump suggested an overhaul of the federal tax system, proposing to replace federal income tax with tariffs. However, the Peterson Institute of International Economics has critiqued this idea, noting that it is unfeasible since the revenue from imported goods, which is about $3.1 trillion annually, falls significantly short of the $20 trillion generated from U.S. incomes. Transitioning to such a system could also shift the tax burden onto lower-income families, as they spend a larger portion of their income on consumables.

Trump framed his tariff plan as a return to the policies of former President William McKinley in the late 1890s. Some historians and economists argue that McKinley's tariffs contributed to a financial deficit and an economic depression starting in 1893. Despite these historical concerns, Trump’s proposal is positioned as a bold move to reassert the U.S. stance on trade and immigration.