President Donald Trump shook things up on Friday with a major announcement that he’s doubling the tariffs on steel imports into the U.S.
Speaking at the Irvin Works steel plant just outside Pittsburgh in West Mifflin, Trump revealed plans to raise steel tariffs from 25 percent all the way up to 50 percent.
Surrounded by a crowd of proud U.S. Steel workers clad in bright orange jackets, the president made it clear he’s doubling down on protecting American steelmakers.
Partnership Between U.S. Steel and Japan’s Nippon Highlighted
This announcement came as part of a celebration of a new partnership between U.S. Steel and Japan’s Nippon Steel, which Trump has been backing since last week.
The deal promises to boost the steel industry in Pittsburgh and beyond, with Trump calling it a step toward revitalizing the Rust Belt.
U.S. Steel’s president, David Burritt, and Nippon’s executive vice president, Takahiro Mori, both appeared on stage to praise the deal and thanked Trump for his support.
A New ‘Golden Age’ for American Steel
David Burritt described the partnership as ushering in a “golden age” for American steel.
He emphasized that, thanks to the president’s efforts, U.S. Steel would continue to be “mined, melted, and made in America.”
Mori echoed this sentiment, affirming the commitment to keeping steel production American and supporting U.S. workers.
Local Workers Feel Hopeful About the Future
Among the crowd was John Bielich, a 68-year-old who has been with U.S. Steel or as a contractor for nearly 47 years.
When the deal was first announced, Bielich admits he was wary about a Japanese company’s involvement.
But after learning more, he felt reassured that the partnership could secure jobs and strengthen the local steel industry for years to come.
“It’s a great deal for the workers and the communities,” he told reporters.
Younger Generation Optimistic About Job Security and Investment
Chris J., a 22-year-old recent college graduate returning to the Pittsburgh area, came to hear Trump’s speech because his father worked in the steel industry.
He’s hopeful the deal will bring the kind of job security and investment that the city hasn’t seen in a long time.
“People are keeping their jobs, and our city is getting an influx of investment,” he said, clearly excited about the future.
Trump’s Vision for the Rust Belt and Defense Initiatives
During his speech, Trump painted a big-picture vision of turning the traditional Rust Belt into a “Golden Belt.”
He also mentioned his plans for a “Golden Dome” missile defense system, aiming to protect American industries and communities alike.
To win over the crowd even more, several Pittsburgh Steelers players gave Trump a custom “Trump 47” jersey, officially dubbing him a “Steeler for the day.”
The Setting: A Historic Steel Plant in West Mifflin
The event took place inside the active Irvin Works steel plant, located along the Monongahela River just outside Pittsburgh.
Despite the large crowd, the stage took up less than a quarter of the sprawling old warehouse.
Outside, vendors sold special “Terrible Towels” with the slogan “President Trump … Make USS Great Again, The Birthplace of Steel,” blending local sports culture with the day’s message.
Mixed Reactions from Unions and Politicians
While many workers cheered the partnership and tariff hike, not everyone was on board.
The International Steelworkers Union, based in Pittsburgh, remained skeptical about the deal.
Meanwhile, prominent Democrats in Pennsylvania stayed away from the event, highlighting the political divisions surrounding Trump’s policies.