Google Searches for ‘Recession’ and ‘Tariff’ Surge Amid U.S. Trade War Concerns

Americans are increasingly searching for economic terms like “recession” and “tariff,” reflecting growing uncertainty over trade policies and financial stability.

Economic worries are surfacing in multiple ways, from Google search trends to stock market losses and concerns among business owners. President Donald Trump’s trade policies have sparked unease, particularly with tariffs on Canadian goods and threats of a deepening trade war.

U.S. Consumers and Businesses Show Growing Concern

An increasing number of Americans are looking up economic recession indicators, which historically align with downturns. Moody’s chief economist, Mark Zandi, warns that the likelihood of a U.S. recession now stands at 35% or higher. He suggests that if tariffs persist or expand, a global recession could follow.

Businesses have also voiced concerns. CNN reports that North Carolina breweries, Washington State apple exporters, and U.S. auto manufacturers fear tariffs will erode profits and raise costs. The S&P 500 has already fallen 10%, officially entering correction territory.

Media and Public Scrutiny on Trade Policy

Trade policy rarely gets mainstream U.S. media attention, but Trump’s escalating trade war with Canada has changed that. News networks now feature stories about rising costs, disrupted supply chains, and economic instability.

• CNN has covered Canadian reactions to U.S. tariffs.
• The National Review criticized Trump’s trade policy, warning it could derail his second term.
• The New York Post acknowledged falling markets but praised job growth from companies reshoring production.

Doug Ford Becomes a Prominent U.S. Political Figure

Ontario Premier Doug Ford has become a widely recognized figure in American media due to his strong stance against tariffs. His temporary tax on electricity exports to the U.S. led to threats of retaliatory tariffs from Trump before both sides dialed back tensions.

However, Trump’s administration remains firm on a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum imports set to begin this week. Industry leaders warn that this could severely impact both U.S. and Canadian manufacturers.

The Debate Over Trump’s Economic Strategy

Economists and political analysts remain divided on Trump’s long-term economic plan. Some believe the tariffs are designed to force companies to shift production back to the U.S. Others speculate that Trump aims to slow the economy intentionally to push for lower interest rates and reduced debt payments.

Economist Marcus Noland of the Peterson Institute for International Economics sees two major risks:

1. The direct cost of tariffs on businesses and consumers.
2. The uncertainty surrounding policy changes, which causes hesitation in investments.

Noland warns that sudden price increases on consumer goods are already happening, and the economic slowdown is becoming more visible.

What This Means for the U.S. Economy

The U.S. economy faces increased uncertainty as consumers, businesses, and financial markets react to shifting trade policies. If tariffs expand or continue indefinitely, a recession may become unavoidable.

For now, analysts urge close monitoring of trade negotiations, market responses, and economic trends in the coming months.

More…

• https://www.cbc.ca/news/world/souring-us-economic-mood-amid-tariffs-1.7480966 
• https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/3/11/why-trumps-tariff-chaos-sparked-stock-market-meltdown-and-recession-fears
• https://www.cbs8.com/article/news/nation-world/what-is-a-recession/507-cc804094-3329-4ef2-b745-0f68ba217b18 
• https://www.overheretoronto.com/ontario-strikes-back-starlink-deal-canceled-u-s-alcohol-banned-energy-surcharge-proposed