Trump’s Week 11 in Office: A Surge of Tariffs and National Security Changes

Trump’s Week 11 in Office: A Surge of Tariffs and National Security Changes

During the 11th week of his presidency, President Donald Trump initiated a series of significant tariffs on imports to the United States. These measures align with his long-standing belief that foreign nations have exploited the American economy through unfair trade practices.

In a notable ceremony at the White House’s Rose Garden, Trump unveiled the historic tariffs as part of an event titled “Make America Wealthy Again.” He expressed confidence that these new tariffs would create jobs for American workers.

Trump stated, “For nations that treat us badly, we will calculate the combined rate of all their tariffs, nonmonetary barriers, and other forms of cheating.” He clarified that the tariffs would not be fully reciprocal. Instead, he explained that this approach aims to ease the burden on certain foreign nations while still addressing the challenges of unfair trading practices.

The tariff plan imposes a baseline tax of 10% on all imports to the United States, with adjusted tariffs for countries that impose higher duties on American products. These baseline tariffs are set to take effect on Saturday, while other targeted tariffs will begin on Wednesday.

Impact of the New Tariffs

This new policy builds on the Trump administration’s previous tariffs, including a 25% levy on imported vehicles and up to 25% on various items from Mexico and Canada, alongside a 20% tariff on goods from China. While the existing tariffs on Canada and Mexico will remain unchanged, these new tariffs on China will apply in addition to the current duties.

The reaction to the tariff announcement has been mixed, with opposition from both Republican and Democratic lawmakers. In response, a bipartisan group of senators introduced the Trade Review Act of 2025, which would require the executive branch to notify Congress 48 hours before imposing any new tariffs. Under this proposed legislation, tariffs would expire after 60 days unless Congress approved a resolution to continue them.

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent cautioned foreign nations against retaliating against the U.S. following the tariff changes. In an interview, he advised, “Do not retaliate. If you retaliate, there will be escalation.”

National Security Council Changes

In addition to the tariff announcement, this week saw significant personnel changes within the National Security Council. Trump confirmed that several National Security Council members, led by National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, were dismissed. The president described the firings as affecting a small number of staffers, maintaining that he still has confidence in his national security team.

While discussing the firings, Trump remarked, “Always, we’re going to let go of people we don’t like or those who may have loyalties to someone else.” This statement came on Air Force One as he answered questions regarding recent media coverage of the firings.

These dismissals occurred amid scrutiny surrounding Waltz’s management, particularly after it was revealed that he utilized a Signal group chat to discuss military operations. This chat included prominent White House officials, raising questions when a journalist was accidentally added. The White House has claimed that no classified information was shared; however, The Atlantic published messages from the chat detailing sensitive details of military strikes.

Support for Waltz

Despite the controversy, the White House has defended Waltz, indicating that their internal review of the incident has concluded. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt expressed that Waltz remains a crucial member of Trump’s national security team, assuring reporters that the situation is under control.

Elon Musk’s Future with the Administration

This week also featured news regarding Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX and Tesla, regarding his role as spearhead of the Department of Government Efficiency, known as DOGE. Reports surfaced indicating that he would soon step down. However, the White House clarified that Musk’s departure would occur only once he successfully completes his project.

Leavitt labeled rumors regarding Musk’s imminent exit as unfounded, stating, “Elon Musk and President Trump have both publicly stated that Elon will depart from public service as a special government employee when his incredible work at DOGE is complete.” This role allows for temporary project-based appointments, which for Musk will conclude by the end of May.

Both Trump and Musk have previously expressed optimism that the necessary work for DOGE would be completed by the end of this designated time frame. As events unfold, observing how these policies and personnel changes will impact the administration moving forward will continue to be essential.

Reporting contributed by Fox News’ Emma Colton.