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The implementation of 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum imports through President Donald Trump’s executive order is essential for counterbalancing tariffs imposed on American products, according to Rep. Greg Murphy, R-N.C., who spoke to Newsmax on Tuesday.
“President Trump understands this,” Murphy said on Newsmax’s “Wake Up America.” “He’s a businessman … he understands that trade needs to be balanced, and the only way to balance [how] we’re affected by tariffs in other countries is to reciprocate them.”
International opposition has emerged in response to Trump’s tariff directive. Canadian steel producers have expressed concerns about significant market disruptions, while European Commission officials have pledged protective measures for their industry stakeholders.
President Trump signs a 25% tariff on steel producers UNLESS they make their product in the United States.
"It's time for our great industries to come back to America."
Promises made. Promises kept. pic.twitter.com/d1yzKwTNza
— Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) February 10, 2025
Despite acknowledging potential initial challenges, Murphy expressed confidence that the tariffs would revitalize dormant sectors of American manufacturing. He emphasized the measure’s importance in strengthening domestic economic growth.
The congressman distinguished these metal tariffs from Trump’s previous threats against Mexico and Canada regarding border security and fentanyl trafficking, characterizing the current measures as economically motivated rather than punitive.
Murphy highlighted the national security implications of domestic metal production, drawing from lessons learned during the pandemic about supply chain vulnerabilities.
🔥 White House Senior Counselor for Trade and Manufacturing, Peter Navarro, praises President Trump's robust steel and aluminum tariffs:
"It protects our national security, it protects American workers and American manufacturing, and generates a lot of revenues…" pic.twitter.com/kweKLT6MEp
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) February 11, 2025
The conversation then shifted to the upcoming confirmation vote for Health and Human Services nominee Robert F. Kennedy Jr. Murphy, who co-chairs the House GOP Doctors Conference, welcomed the potential for constructive disruption in healthcare policy.
“I think disruption is OK, especially given the monolithic thought of medicine during the pandemic,” said Murphy, who is a medical doctor. “I think as long as it’s healthy disruption, and I look forward for us to have conversations with him about what’s best for the health of the nation; I’m 100% on board.”
Citing concerns about chronic diseases and childhood obesity, Murphy endorsed the concept of positive disruption in healthcare. While acknowledging potential disagreements on medical approaches, he expressed optimism about future collaborative discussions with Kennedy.
