Fact Check: Did Trump’s tariffs slash the deficit by more than 25%?

Media Bias Fact Check (MBFC) publishes daily vetted fact checks from verified IFCN-approved sources. Each claim is independently reviewed for accuracy and context.


Claimant: Donald Trump (R)


Claim: “My tariffs … are helping to slash the deficit this year by more than 25%.”


Rating: BLATANT LIE


Explanation: Federal data shows the deficit for fiscal year 2025 decreased by just 2.3% compared to 2024—not 25%. When isolating the months Trump was in office, the deficit actually increased relative to the same period under President Biden. Tariff revenue did not meaningfully drive deficit reduction.


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Date: 11/16/2025


 

Last Updated on November 17, 2025 by Media Bias Fact Check

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