President Donald Trump is set to implement new tariffs Saturday on Mexico, China, and Canada, citing concerns over illegal fentanyl, trade imbalances, and national security. The move, however, has drawn criticism over potential price hikes for American consumers, with opponents warning that tariffs could lead to increased costs at the gas pump and grocery store.
Despite concerns that tariffs could exacerbate inflation, Trump’s administration dismissed these warnings, pointing to his first-term economic record.
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“I think Americans who are concerned about increased prices should look at what President Trump did in his first term,” Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated Friday. “He effectively implemented tariffs, and the average inflation rate during the first Trump Administration was 1.9 percent. In fact, when President Trump left office, it was 1.4 percent.”
Leavitt emphasized that Trump’s broader economic strategy—which includes tax cuts, energy independence, and pro-growth policies—would result in an economic boom similar to his first term.
“The president is committed to cutting inflation and reducing costs for the American people, despite what the media wants to focus on,” Leavitt added.
Among the most controversial measures is the incoming tariff on Canadian imports, which is scheduled to take effect tomorrow.
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When asked whether the U.S. was on the brink of a trade war with Canada, Leavitt downplayed concerns, saying the tariffs were a necessary response to illegal fentanyl smuggling and immigration failures by both Canada and Mexico.
“Canada and Mexico have allowed an unprecedented invasion of illegal fentanyl that is killing American citizens and also illegal immigrants into our country,” Leavitt stated.
However, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau vowed to retaliate, saying he “will not relent” until the tariffs are removed.
“President Trump will implement a 10 percent tariff on imports from Canada, Mexico, and China,” Leavitt confirmed. “Trudeau would be wise to speak with the president directly rather than making outlandish comments to the media.”
Trump’s tariff package extends to China, marking a renewed escalation in U.S.-China trade tensions. The 10 percent tariff on Chinese imports is expected to impact billions of dollars in goods, with administration officials citing China’s role in illicit drug trafficking and unfair trade practices as justification.
“The amount of fentanyl that has been seized at the southern border in the last two years alone has the potential to kill tens of millions of Americans,” Leavitt said. “The president is intent on taking strong action to protect American lives.”
With tariffs set to take effect, the U.S. could face retaliation from key trading partners, raising concerns over a global economic slowdown. Whether Trump’s strategy will strengthen the U.S. economy or lead to a costly trade war remains to be seen.
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