I've read estimates that the tariffs will cost consumers over $100,000 for every steel job saved
but since that won't be readily apparent to the average person, they won't realize it. All they're likely to see is that some prices are higher without really knowing why.
This appears to be yet another decision where the political calculations are given more weight than the economic ones. I read an article in this morning's local paper (can't find it online yet) that stated some unions are resisting the push to only support Democrats. It wouldn't surprise me in the least that was a big factor in Bush's decision.