The Globe and Mail reports in its Saturday edition that it's unclear why President Donald Trump has imposed his latest tariffs. The Globe's John Rapley says it is uncertain if Mr. Trump is employing a bargaining tactic, a trade strategy or something else. From Washington's perspective, the target list is crafted to limit economic harm, affecting only 5 per cent of imports and avoiding widespread effects, like those in the energy sector. Other countries affected by Mr. Trump's tariff tantrums, like Brazil, reveal an administration operating from a position of weakness, aware of its own vulnerabilities. The midterm elections are approaching, and tariffs are unpopular, with 70 per cent of Americans reporting higher prices due to them. Inflation and the cost of living remain top voter concerns. While inflation eased slightly last month, the renewed conflict in the Middle East and rising gasoline prices above $4 (U.S.) a gallon have heightened fears. The benefits to American producers from these tariffs have been slow to materialize. Manufacturing jobs have declined since Mr. Trump's return. Tariffs have primarily raised consumer prices and lowered profits in sectors like automobiles due to increased costs of inputs.