Turning the Tide in the Polls: Trump Makes a Sharp U-Turn on 50% Steel and Aluminum Tariffs | WPN World People News

U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order in 2025 imposing a 50% tariff on steel and aluminum imports from around the world. The scope was expanded to cover 407 types of steel- and aluminum-derived products, including machinery, auto parts, and electronic equipment. However, according to media reports citing informed sources, Trump is planning to lower tariffs on certain steel and aluminum products in an effort to shore up declining approval ratings amid rising living costs.

A Reuters/Ipsos poll shows that 30% of Americans approve of Trump’s handling of rising living costs, while 60% express dissatisfaction. A survey released this month by the Pew Research Center indicates that about 52% of Americans believe Trump’s policies have worsened the economy. In addition, a report by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York finds that in 2025, approximately 90% of the economic burden caused by tariffs in the United States has been borne by American businesses and consumers.

Officials from the U.S. Department of Commerce and the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative stated that the steel and aluminum tariffs are expected to raise prices for various everyday goods, including baking trays and metal containers such as food cans, thereby harming consumer interests. Authorities are currently reviewing the list of products affected by the tariffs and plan to exempt certain items while postponing the expansion of additional tariff measures. Instead, they will initiate investigations targeting specific products.

Trump recently promoted his economic achievements in Detroit, highlighting his efforts to curb high prices. However, with the U.S. midterm elections approaching in November, concerns over inflation are weighing heavily on voters. As a result, the Trump administration may adjust its policies to win support, responding to mounting living costs and declining approval ratings.