Tariffs not to blame for jobs number, says U.S. Commerce Sec. Lutnick

Economic Data & Analysis - The US Commerce Secretary suggests that the Democratic shutdown, rather than tariffs, negatively impacted private sector job numbers and small businesses [3] - Deportation policies are also cited as a factor suppressing private job numbers, with an expectation of rebalancing and regrowth [4] - The US Commerce Secretary anticipates a superb GDP growth exceeding 4% next year, driven by construction projects [4] - The US Commerce Secretary claims prices remain stable unless tariffs exceed 15%, with suppliers and distributors absorbing the costs [6] - Inflation is reported to be below 3% [6] Trade & Tariffs - The report suggests tariffs are not the primary cause of economic concerns [3][6][7] - Some businesses are struggling with tariffs, higher costs, and uncertainty [5] - Factory activity shrank in November, with tariffs cited as a reason in a manufacturing report [5] Future Outlook - The US Commerce Secretary predicts significant growth in factory construction and AI building next year [7] - Plans to reduce the price of power in America are expected to further stimulate the economy [8]