Payam Javan: President Donald Trump announced on May 30, 2025, at a rally in U.S. Steel Corporation’s Irvin Works plant in Pennsylvania, that tariffs on steel and aluminum imports to the United States will double from 25 percent to 50 percent, effective June 4. The announcement, made to thousands of steelworkers, celebrated a new partnership with Japan’s Nippon Steel, which Trump said will secure the U.S. steel industry, create 70,000 jobs, and contribute $14 billion to the economy. The partnership ensures U.S. Steel’s headquarters remain in Pittsburgh, with Nippon Steel’s vice chairman, Takahiro Mori, pledging investments to make U.S. Steel a global leader.

The rally, held in a massive steel mill under looming rain clouds, drew enthusiastic support from workers and local leaders. U.S. Steel employees, many in orange jackets and hard hats, expressed excitement about the partnership’s potential, while union representatives and local congressmen, including Rep. Mike Kelly and Rep. Dan Meuser, hailed the deal as a boost for the industry and community. Attendees, including multi-generational steelworkers and Trump supporters, voiced optimism about the economic impact and the president’s commitment to strengthening American manufacturing.