White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt forcefully rejected claims that President Trump’s proposed tariffs amount to a hidden tax increase during a tense press briefing. Responding to an AP reporter, she said the tariffs target foreign governments, not Americans, and are meant to rebalance trade, protect U.S. jobs, and strengthen domestic industries. Leavitt acknowledged possible short-term costs but argued the long-term benefits—stronger supply chains, higher wages, and reduced reliance on foreign economies—would ultimately help American workers.
