At a recent press conference, Donald Trump called a reporter’s inquiry “the best question I’ve ever been asked” after being asked about economist Torsten Sløk’s surprising reversal on Trump’s tariff policies. Sløk, who once warned Trump’s tariffs could spark a recession, now says they may have been a smart, long-term strategy to reshape global trade—suggesting the U.S. could benefit from $400 billion in annual revenue.

Trump, clearly vindicated, touted increased tax revenue, strong markets, and “no inflation,” and said critics should “go back to business school.”

While many economists dispute some of his claims, Sløk’s shift has reignited debate over whether Trump’s protectionist trade moves were more strategic than initially believed.

The moment served as a political boost for Trump, reinforcing his image as a disruptor willing to defy experts in pursuit of American strength.