“Farmers will be helped greatly": Trump says tariffs will benefit U.S. producers

The 25 percent tariff on steel and aluminum is officially in place. President Trump signed the official proclamation last night.

The move includes a 25 percent tariff on steel and aluminum from all countries. Tariffs had already been in place, but there had been exceptions. The move is supported by steel manufacturers in the United States, who have long asked for protections from cheaper foreign imports.

President Trump called the move a big deal and said it is time for great industries to come back to America. The President also talked about concerns that recent tariff action would hurt farmers and ranchers.

“The farmers are going to be helped greatly because they’re not going to be dumping everything into our country. This would be a great bill for farmers. In terms of retaliation, if they retaliate, it’s reciprocal. So, if they raise it a little bit, then we raise it immediately. So, I don’t think it helps for them to retaliate.”

Tariffs have been a big topic out of Washington since Trump took office. There is still a pause on 25 percent blanket tariffs on Canada and Mexico while discussions continue.

Related Stories
Kentucky Firefighters Jonathan and Lonny Epley and Extension Agent Leann Martin tell us about a new portable grain bin rescue tool, and its potential to enhance safety for farmers and first responders nationwide.
Tennessee Ag in focus: Commissioner Holt shares his farm economy outlook, the TNFB honors a cotton legacy, and TN 4-H and FFA leaders discuss support for the next generation of agriculture in Tennessee.
F-10 Wound Spray can now be used for livestock and other animals as officials monitor the ongoing New World Screwworm outbreak in Mexico.
Severe drought in South Texas is forcing ranchers to consider cattle sell-offs as feed and water supplies dwindle, threatening herd health and livestock operations.
Farm Bureau economist Dr. Faith Parum explains how geopolitical dynamics in the Middle East could further tighten fertilizer movement, increase fuel costs, and complicate planting decisions for U.S. farmers this spring.
Missouri Farm Bureau President Garrett Hawkins discusses the potential impact of data center growth on farmland, the Landowner Fairness Act, and key priorities for Missouri farmers heading into planting season.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

Auction manager and West Texas A&M University student Presley Graves joined us to discuss the growth of StockShowAuctions.com and its impact on youth in agriculture.
Texas Farm Bureau President Russell Boening joined us with the latest update on storm conditions and impacts across the state.
Mike Knotts with the Tennessee Electric Cooperative Association joined us with the latest on storm impacts, power restoration, and safety considerations following the ice storm.
Brooks York with AgriSompo joined us with his outlook on crop insurance and risk management following the recent winter storm that tore through most of the United States, including the Midwest.
Placements and marketings beat expectations, but declining on-feed totals and feeder constraints keep the supply story supportive for cattle prices into 2026. Dr. Derrell Peel, with Oklahoma State University, joined us to break down cattle-on-feed numbers and provide his broader market outlook.
USDA Rural Development Director for Kentucky, Travis Burton, joined us to discuss the Princeton facility (formerly Porter Road Meats), now backed by the USDA, and its role in expanding domestic meat processing capacity.