WASHINGTON, D.C. — President Donald Trump said Wednesday that Democratic leaders Nancy Pelosi and Chuck Schumer had previously supported the use of tariffs, as he defended his administration’s trade policies and hinted at possible exemptions for American companies.
He referred to Pelosi as “Crazy Nancy” during the brief media engagement.
Key Points
- Trump said tariffs were originally “Crazy Nancy” and Schumer’s idea
- Hinted that some U.S. firms could be exempt during 90-day tariff pause
- Applauded GOP leaders and praised El Salvador over deportation cooperation
Speaking on the South Lawn, Trump told reporters that he might consider exempting some U.S. companies from the newly announced tariffs during a planned 90-day pause.
“That would be made instinctively,” he said, suggesting decisions would be made on a case-by-case basis.
Trump also responded to questions about past Democratic support for tariffs, laughing before saying, “Interestingly Chuck Schumer and Crazy Nancy wanted to do this for years.”
Comments on markets and deportation efforts
Addressing market reactions, Trump said he noticed “people were getting a little queasy” but downplayed financial jitters, saying the current policy shift was “a transition to greatness” and Americans “are going to do better than ever before.”
He also praised the President of El Salvador for cooperating with the administration’s mass deportation efforts, without detailing specific actions.
GOP leaders, budget, and racing team visit
The president commended Republican congressional leaders John Thune, John Barrasso, and Ron Johnson, predicting the House would pass a GOP budget resolution later in the day.
Trump noted he had watched JPMorgan CEO Jamie Dimon on television discussing the economic impact of the tariffs. The press pool was escorted from the South Lawn at 3:19 p.m., where Trump was taking photos with three racing teams.