Tariffs or Taxes? Leavitt Defends Trump’s Trade Policy

At a tense White House press briefing, Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt rejected claims that President Trump’s tariff plan amounted to a tax hike. She insisted tariffs were tools to protect U.S. industries and bring fairness to global trade—not tax increases.

Responding to a reporter’s question about the shift from tax cuts to tariffs, Leavitt emphasized that tariffs target foreign countries exploiting U.S. trade deals. “Tariffs are not a tax on Americans,” she said, calling them a path to higher wages and stronger domestic industries.

Though critics argue tariffs could raise consumer prices, Leavitt maintained that long-term benefits like economic growth and job protection outweigh short-term costs. She defended the administration’s economic approach, stressing its focus on American workers and fairness in global trade.

Leavitt’s fiery tone underscored the administration’s commitment to its “America First” agenda, with tariffs playing a central role in reshaping the U.S. economy. While debate continues, the White House remains firm in its stance.