August 27, 2025
U.S. Customs Revenue on Track to Top $500B plus Cracker Barrel Backtracks After Branding Blunder
The Ben Ferguson PodcastAbout this episode
1. U.S. Tariffs and Trump’s Economic Policy It frames Donald Trump’s tariffs as highly successful, claiming they could generate over $500 billion annually , possibly trending toward $1 trillion in revenue. Treasury Secretary Scott “Bis(s)ent” is quoted emphasizing month-to-month increases in customs duty revenues, suggesting tariffs could reduce the federal deficit by as much as $4 trillion over the next decade . The narrative positions tariffs not only as a financial benefit but also as a strategic tool for reshoring industries such as semiconductors, steel, and pharmaceuticals, reducing U.S. dependence on China and Taiwan. The text stresses that Trump’s administration sees economic independence as a national security priority , tying lessons from COVID-19 supply chain issues to the need for domestic production. 2. Cracker Barrel Branding Controversy The second half shifts focus to Cracker Barrel’s 2023–2025 rebrand , where the company modernized its logo, décor, and dropped its “Old Country Store” image. The commentary portrays this as a “woke” misstep , accusing the company of alienating its loyal, traditional customer base. Financial consequences are highlighted: a 10–17% stock drop and a $100 million loss in market value . After backlash and Trump’s public criticism, Cracker Barrel reverted to its original branding with “Uncle Herschel” and its traditional country store style. The text credits Trump with pressuring the company to reverse course, framing him as defending cultural tradition and consumer values. Please Hit Subscribe to this podcast Right Now. Also Please Subscribe to the The Ben Ferguson Show Podcast and Verdict with Ted Cruz Wherever You get You're Podcasts. And don't forget to follow the show on Social Media so you never miss a moment! Thanks for Listening X: https://x.com/benfergusonshow #CrackerBarrel #woke #UncleHerschel #DonaldTrump #Tariffs #TreasurySecretaryScottBissent See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.