Trump Is Kicking the Economy While It’s Down

Trump Is Kicking the Economy While It’s Down

March 19, 2026 · 29 min · Episode 175

About this episode

The episode discusses the impact of Iran blocking oil tankers on the global economy and the potential for a recession in the United States.

Iran is blocking oil tankers from passing through the Strait of Hormuz. Consumers around the world are already seeing higher gas prices as a result, but the global oil supply affects so much more than just prices at the pump. Soon, shoppers could see higher prices on food, clothes, e-commerce, and everything in between. The Atlantic staff writer Rogé Karma explains that a healthy economy could probably weather an oil shock like this. A weaker economy, however, such as the one the United States has now, could slip into a recession. Get more from your favorite Atlantic voices when you subscribe. You’ll enjoy unlimited access to Pulitzer-winning journalism, from clear-eyed analysis and insight on breaking news to fascinating explorations of our world. Atlantic subscribers also get access to exclusive subscriber audio in Apple Podcasts. Subscribe today at TheAtlantic.com/Listener. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

People in this episode

Guest: Rogé Karma

Topics covered

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Iran, The Atlantic

Places: Strait of Hormuz, United States

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