US President Donald Trump signed proclamations on Wednesday to restore a 25% tariff on steel and raise the tariff on aluminium to 25%, aiming to protect US industries from unfair competition. The White House Press Secretary, Karoline Leavitt, emphasized that these actions are part of Trump’s ongoing efforts to safeguard American workers and industries.
Closing Loopholes to Protect US Industries
Leavitt noted that these tariffs would close existing loopholes and exemptions that had undermined the effectiveness of the previous tariffs. The White House views these measures as vital to ensuring national security by strengthening critical industries like steel and aluminium in the US.
“President Trump continues to take bold action to protect America’s critical steel and aluminium industries, much like he did during his first term,” Leavitt said. “These tariffs will put American workers first and ensure that US industries are protected from foreign competition.”
Tulsi Gabbard Confirmed as Director of National Intelligence
In the same briefing, Leavitt announced the confirmation of Tulsi Gabbard as Director of National Intelligence. Gabbard, a former Democratic Representative from Hawaii, faced a contentious confirmation process, but was confirmed by the US Senate with a 52-48 vote.
Her confirmation was a significant move for the Trump administration, despite concerns from some Republican senators over her past stances on issues like Ukraine, surveillance, and meetings with foreign leaders. Gabbard’s confirmation marked a turnaround for a nomination that had been controversial from the beginning.
