President Donald Trump defended his latest tariffs in a speech to Congress, vowing stronger trade policies. He claimed the U.S. had endured unfair treatment from global partners for decades.
“For years, other nations have taxed our goods. Now, we’re standing up for America,” Trump said in his first address since starting his second term.
His statement followed a major tariff increase on Tuesday. The U.S. imposed a 25% tax on Canadian and Mexican exports while raising Chinese import tariffs from 10% to 20%. China remains America’s third-largest trading partner.
The stock market dropped sharply after the announcement. Canada, Mexico, and China threatened retaliation, sparking fears of a global trade war.
Trump revealed plans for new “reciprocal tariffs” on all U.S. trade partners starting April 2. He also confirmed a 25% tariff on steel, aluminum, copper, and other foreign materials.
Major Policy Changes in Trump’s Second Term
Trump’s second term began with swift policy shifts, global tensions, and federal government reforms.
Vice President JD Vance and House Speaker Mike Johnson sat behind him as he opened with a bold statement.
“America is back,” Trump declared, prompting loud applause from Republican lawmakers.
“Six weeks ago, I stood here and announced a new golden era,” he said. “Since then, we have taken historic action to rebuild America’s strength.”
Trump claimed his administration had accomplished more in 43 days than most do in four years. He highlighted his 76 executive orders, many now facing legal challenges.
Key orders included a national emergency at the U.S.-Mexico border. This action allowed military deployment to stop what he called an “invasion.”
Trump also enforced a federal hiring freeze and cut foreign aid. He argued these decisions would reduce waste and protect taxpayers.
The president reaffirmed his withdrawal from global agreements. He called the Paris Climate Accord unfair, labeled the World Health Organization corrupt, and criticized the U.N. Human Rights Council as anti-American.
Trump Calls for an End to Ukraine War At Congress
Trump promised to end the war in Ukraine, which has lasted over three years.
“It’s time to stop the violence,” he said. “We must end this war now.”
His remarks followed the U.S. decision to cut military aid to Ukraine. Days earlier, he met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in the Oval Office but reached no deal.
Trump shared that Zelensky had sent him a letter expressing a willingness to negotiate.
“I appreciate his willingness to come to the table,” Trump said.
Democrats Respond with Criticism
Senator Elisa Slotkin delivered the Democratic response, accusing Trump of favoring billionaires over working families.
“He’s rewarding the wealthy while everyday Americans struggle,” Slotkin said.
She also criticized mass layoffs in federal agencies. Many workers lost jobs, only to be rehired after realizing their roles were essential.
“No CEO could get away with this,” she said. “Meanwhile, food and housing prices keep rising, and there’s no real plan to fix it.”
Trump’s Speech Breaks Records
Trump’s speech lasted one hour and 40 minutes, setting a record for the longest address to Congress. The previous record, held by Bill Clinton, was one hour and 28 minutes.
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