Trump Announces New Tariffs Aimed at Semiconductors, Steel, and Pharmaceuticals
During the House Republican retreat, Trump called on GOP members to remain united.
DORAL, Fla.— On January 27, President Donald Trump addressed the House Republican retreat at his Doral golf resort in Florida, outlining his tariff proposals and specifying the industries affected.
“We will soon impose tariffs on the foreign production of computer chips, semiconductors, and pharmaceuticals,” Trump stated.
“I will also introduce tariffs on steel, aluminum, copper, and other materials essential for our military. We must bring production back home.”
Last week, Trump indicated that his administration might begin applying tariffs on goods imported from China starting February 1.
“We’re considering a 10 percent tariff on China because they are sending fentanyl to Mexico and Canada,” the president shared with reporters at the White House. Previously on the campaign trail, Trump had suggested a 60 percent tariff on all Chinese imports.
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At the Trump National Doral Miami golf club, the president reiterated his commitment to reducing corporate tax rates from 21 percent to 15 percent for companies producing goods within the United States.
“We will protect our citizens and businesses, and our country through tariffs,” he declared.
“I am eager to collaborate with Congress on the most substantial tax cuts and reforms package in American history; we need to make that happen,” Trump emphasized. “We should not get bogged down in the budget process… whether it’s one bill or two, it doesn’t matter to me.”
During his approximately hour-long address, the recently inaugurated president celebrated the approval of what he claimed to be 350 executive actions since taking office on January 20.
“There’s nothing we cannot accomplish as long as the Republican Party stays unified. I urge you to remain united,” Trump expressed to GOP lawmakers who are currently hashing out the details of a reconciliation package.
Approximately 170 out of 218 GOP lawmakers are present for this year’s conference, as reported by a spokesperson for House Republican Conference Chair Lisa McClain (D-Mich.). During their three-day planning meeting, House Republicans are set to outline Trump’s ambitious legislative initiatives.
Trump highlighted his executive actions since taking office, which include instituting a federal hiring freeze, halting federal regulations, and suspending foreign aid.
He also praised the Senate’s confirmation of Pete Hegseth as Secretary of Defense, with his speech occurring alongside Treasury Secretary nominee Scott Bessent’s confirmation by a vote of 68 to 29.
Trump dedicated nearly 15 minutes to discussing border security and illegal immigration matters.
He responded to remarks from Colombian President Gustavo Petro, who commented on X that illegal aliens on repatriation flights were “being treated like criminals.”
“These individuals are murderers, drug lords, gang members, the toughest people you’ve ever met,” Trump asserted. “Have you seen the film Con Air?” referencing the 1997 movie featuring Nicolas Cage where prisoners take control of a transport plane.
“You’ve got two pilots up front, and 300 people on board, each one a murderer, drug lord, or mob leader, and you’re in control of that aircraft.”
After a brief exchange over the deportation of illegal immigrants, the Colombian president acquiesced to Trump’s terms, as announced earlier by the White House, which include the unconditional acceptance of all illegal aliens from Colombia without delay.
In a statement on January 26, Colombian Foreign Minister Luis Gilberto Murillo confirmed, “Our government is prepared to arrange the presidential plane for the return of Colombians.”
Trump is also anticipated to sign new executive orders restricting the service of openly transgender individuals in the U.S. military, as well as abolishing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs within the armed forces, the White House announced on January 27. These orders will affect all branches of the U.S. military and the U.S. Coast Guard.
Throughout his address, Trump exhibited confidence and occasionally shared jokes.
He remarked, “I’ve raised a significant amount of money for the upcoming presidential race… which I believe I can’t use for my own benefit, but I’m not completely certain. Am I allowed to run again, Mike?”
Trump also commended Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), labeling him a “high-quality” and “very religious person.”
Before concluding his speech, Trump encouraged Republicans to unite in their efforts to expand their House majority in the 2026 midterm elections.
