Or you can use tariffs in a highly targeted way to try defend certain domestic industries from foreign competition. But as is common with this administration, they're doing everything in the dumbest and least productive way possible.
You misunderstand. Tariffs have always been in place like this. They are just expanded now. Enacted in 1988 via the Omnibus Trade and Competitiveness Act, the HTS replaced the older Tariff Schedules of the United States and took effect January 1, 1989. It aligns with the World Customs Organization's HS, adopted globally by over 200 countries. https://hts.usitc.gov/
Yep you're right, that would be another possible legitimate (sort of) use of tariffs. Make the case that (for example) steel production is a vital national interest which must be defended even if it results in higher steel prices.
Of course it will result in higher prices, that's the point, but also the part politicians aren't too keen to spell out
