Trump tariffs may signal stealthy shift to consumption tax, analysts say

That is an interesting and plausible perspective! A consumption tax comes also closer to a desirable flat rate tax.

A consumption tax is supposedly much easier to administer and to comply with than an income tax. 

Google AI search result: "A consumption tax can have several advantages over an income tax, including higher economic output, more savings, and a more stable revenue stream. However, consumption taxes can also be regressive, meaning they take a larger share of lower incomes."

"U.S. consumers would pay more to fund transition away from income tax"

Trump tariffs may signal stealthy shift to consumption tax, analysts say - Nikkei Asia