Rep. Greg Murphy (R‑N.C.) acknowledged Tuesday that tariffs are placing increasing pressure on small businesses within his district, but defended them as a necessary policy.

Speaking on NewsNation Tuesday, the North Carolina Republican likened the economic pain to “tough love,” insisting such measures are essential for long-term gains in trade and national resilience.

He admitted that tariffs are hurting small businesses in his district, but said, "This is parenting in a way," adding, "We have to take some really tough medicine."

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In February, Small Business Majority’s research found that 53% of small business owners feared tariffs would harm their own operations, while 77% worried they would have a negative impact on the U.S. economy overall.

Meanwhile, Murphy's Tuesday remarks were sharply criticized on social media.

Journalist Jeff Charles reacted to a clip from Murphy's interview and wrote on the social platform X: "When they admit that government wants to be our daddy..."

"Belittling your constituents is a sure-fire way to not get reelected," wrote a user.

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"Must be nice that Mr. Murphy’s family doesn’t have to rely on a small business for income," wrote the account "WarMonitor" on X.

"Murphy, yes, tariffs are hurting the people in my district, but you know I get paid even if the people in my district can’t eat any longer, so I don’t really think about that kind of stuff," wrote a user, mocking the lawmaker's comments.

"I genuinely feel for small business owners. Tariffs, taxes, and endless regulation are making it nearly impossible for them to survive," wrote a user.

Watch the clip below, or by clicking this link.

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