Trump Doubles Steel and Aluminum Tariffs to Protect American Industry

President Donald Trump has once again proven he’s serious about putting America First this time with a decisive move to double tariffs on steel and aluminum imports to 50%, effective immediately.

The hike, announced in an executive order signed Tuesday, comes as Trump’s Wednesday deadline for global trading partners to submit counterproposals to his “Liberation Day” trade strategy passed without sufficient progress.

“Our steel and aluminum industries are coming back like never before,” Trump said in a Truth Social post. “This will be yet another BIG jolt of great news for our wonderful steel and aluminum workers.”

Here’s what you need to know:

• Tariffs on foreign steel and aluminum imports are now up to 50%, aimed at crushing cheap foreign dumping and boosting U.S. competitiveness.

• The order cited national security as a justification, noting the strategic importance of maintaining strong domestic production capabilities.

• The decision follows Trump’s April tariffs, part of his broader effort to reset global trade terms in favor of American workers.

“The increased tariffs will more effectively counter foreign countries that continue to offload low-priced, excess steel and aluminum in the United States market,” Trump wrote in the executive order. “I have determined that increasing the tariffs will provide greater support to these industries and reduce the national security threat posed by imports.”

While Democrats and globalist pundits scream “protectionism,” Trump is standing up for U.S. manufacturers, especially after decades of disastrous trade deals that gutted American industry and sent jobs overseas.

This isn’t theoretical. Just last month, Trump announced a massive revival plan involving U.S. Steel partnering with Japan’s Nippon Steel a deal that ensures the company remains headquartered in Pittsburgh and is expected to create 70,000 new jobs. It’s a far cry from the Biden administration, which tried to kill the partnership outright.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt reminded foreign governments last week that the clock was ticking: “The president expects good deals,” she said, adding that talks with many countries remain ongoing. Some reciprocal tariffs have been paused until July 8 to allow for negotiations but time is running out.

One major deal has already been inked with the United Kingdom, but talks with China remain tense. Despite initial cooperation, Trump said this week that China violated earlier terms, and he’s not letting it slide.

“I like President XI of China, always have, and always will,” Trump posted. “But he is VERY TOUGH, AND EXTREMELY HARD TO MAKE A DEAL WITH!!!”

But that’s the Trump difference he won’t bow to Beijing, Brussels, or anyone else. He understands that strong nations don’t beg for fair trade they demand it.

With America’s manufacturing sector on life support after years of bipartisan neglect, this tariff move is a shot of adrenaline. It’s bold, it’s unapologetic, and it’s exactly what voters sent Trump to do.

If you stand with American workers, share this article and subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed as real leadership returns to Washington.