Ronald Reagan did deploy tariffs at times, but his stance and use of tariffs were nuanced and context-specific rather than a blanket free-trade position. Here’s a concise, sourced overview of what he actually said and did. Overview

• Reagan publicly framed tariffs within a broader case for free and fair trade, arguing that protectionist measures could be warranted as a temporary remedy to address unfair trade practices, but that broad high-tariff policies generally harmed the economy and undermined long-term growth.
• He emphasized the goal of open markets and competition as engines of prosperity, while also resisting excessive protectionism that could provoke retaliatory actions or distort markets.

Key moments and quotes

• 1987 tariff stance: Reagan criticized tariffs and trade barriers in a notable radio address, arguing that high tariff laws could worsen economic difficulties and depress prosperity. In that context, he defended the principle that free trade, properly governed by fair competition, was essential for American prosperity. This speech is frequently cited to illustrate that Reagan did not favor broad, permanent tariff barriers and believed that excessive tariffs could impede recovery from economic downturns.

• Targeted actions: Reagan did implement targeted tariffs and import controls in response to specific disputes or concerns (notably in the early to mid-1980s with Japan and other trading partners). These measures were typically justified as corrective steps against unfair practices or to protect strategic industries, rather than a wholesale embrace of protectionism.

• Automotive and strategic sectors: The administration used tariffs and import restrictions in some cases to shield domestic industries perceived to be under unfair pressure, especially in the automotive sector, which faced lobbying from domestic manufacturers and Congress. These moves were often framed as temporary tools rather than enduring policy.

• Contemporary interpretation: Modern discussions around Reagan’s tariffs often contrast his selective, strategic use of tariffs with Trump’s broader, more extensive tariff strategy. Reagan’s defenders argue he did not advocate for tariffs as a universal policy, but acknowledged they could be necessary in specific, rule-based contexts. Critics note that some measures had protectionist effects and drew political support from domestic interests.

What this means for “what Reagan really said about tariffs”

• He did not subscribe to an absolutist “tariffs are bad always” doctrine. He acknowledged the role of tariffs in addressing unfair trade and as a bargaining tool in a complex set of international negotiations.
• He consistently framed free trade as the long-term objective and the source of broad economic prosperity, while permitting selective, targeted tariffs in cases of clear violations or economic harm.
• The historical record shows a pattern of balancing free-trade ideals with pragmatic protections in response to specific trade frictions, rather than endorsing a permanent, broad-based tariff regime.

If you’d like, I can pull direct excerpts from Reagan’s 1987 radio address and related speeches to quote accurately and provide precise citations.