In what some are calling “the most Trumpian economic policy to date,” former President Donald Trump has proposed a “reverse tariff” on McDonald’s Big Macs. Under the plan, the U.S. government would actually pay to import the iconic fast food sandwich, a move Trump claims will “supercharge the economy and make America delicious again.”
“Big Macs are the backbone of this country,” Trump declared during a rally outside a McDonald’s in rural Ohio, where he was seen waving a paper bag triumphantly. “I’m proposing we reward companies for bringing in Big Macs. It’s not just a burger, folks — it’s a symbol of prosperity. The more we import, the better we’ll all feel. I promise.”
The reverse tariff would allocate federal funds to subsidize the import of Big Macs, which Trump insists will lower prices for consumers while “making America number one in fast food dominance.” Experts were quick to point out that McDonald’s already produces Big Macs domestically, but Trump brushed aside concerns. “It’s the principle,” he said. “We need more Big Macs from everywhere. Let the burgers flow.”
Economists have described the proposal as “economically nonsensical but on-brand,” with one analyst adding, “It’s like paying someone to break into your own house so you can pay them to put your furniture back.” Meanwhile, public health experts are less enthusiastic, warning that flooding the market with subsidized fast food could spark a public health crisis.
Despite criticism, Trump supporters cheered the plan, with one rally-goer declaring, “Finally, a government program I can really sink my teeth into.” Rumors are swirling that the reverse tariff could be followed by a “bonus fry subsidy” and a “free soda for every citizen” initiative.
At press time, Trump was reportedly drafting a memo proposing a rebranding of the Big Mac as the “Big MAGA,” complete with limited-edition wrappers and a special sauce described as “100% made in America.”
