In response to President Trump’s newly announced 50 percent tariff on imported copper, Cato Institute technology policy expert Matt Mittelsteadt issued the following statement:

“This is a terrible idea and will have a significant impact on the tech sector. Fundamentally, digital technology and AI rely on data centers — and data centers depend on copper. By raising copper prices 50%, we will massively strain the infrastructure that powers innovation.”

For media inquiries or to speak with Mittelsteadt, please feel free to contact Emily Salamon at esalamon@​cato.​org.