White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that the era of the US being taken advantage of in trade is ending. Her remarks came ahead of the implementation of reciprocal tariffs on April 2, 2025.
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Unfair trade policies hurt US industries
Leavitt emphasized the significance of this decision, saying, “Looking ahead to tomorrow, April 2, 2025, will go down as one of the most important days in modern American history. Our country has been one of the most open economies in the world, and we have, hands down, the best consumer base. But too many foreign countries have their markets closed to our exports. This is fundamentally unfair.”
She highlighted how the lack of fair trade policies has harmed US industries, stating, “The lack of reciprocity contributes to our large and persistent annual trade deficit that’s gutted our industries and hollowed out key workforces. But those days of America being ripped off are over. American workers and businesses will be put first under President Trump, just as he promised on the campaign trail.”
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President Trump’s economic vision
Leavitt further explained the administration’s economic strategy, adding, “The president’s historic action will improve American competitiveness in every industry, reduce our massive trade deficits, and ultimately protect our economic and national security. President Trump’s economic vision is rooted in common sense. America will offer companies the lowest taxes, energy costs, and regulations if they make their products right here in the United States and hire American workers.”
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Major companies invest billions in the US
The policy has already driven major investment into the US. Japan-based SoftBank, along with OpenAI and Oracle, announced a $500 billion investment in artificial intelligence infrastructure. Apple committed $500 billion to US manufacturing and training. Nvidia pledged hundreds of billions over the next four years, and TSMC announced a $100 billion investment in US-based chip manufacturing.
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America first approach is delivering results
Leavitt concluded by stating that President Trump’s "America First" approach is already yielding positive results.
