At a May 28 press conference in the White House Rose Garden, President Donald Trump announced new tariff hikes targeting trade partners like China and the European Union. The tariffs, starting at a 10% baseline, include increases of 34% on Chinese imports and 20% on EU goods. Trump was visibly annoyed when a reporter asked about the “TACO Trade” term — “Trump Always Chickens Out” — suggesting markets assumed he’d retreat from tariff threats. Denying the label, Trump said prior tariffs had successfully pressured foreign governments into negotiations. “Does that sound like backing down?” he asked.

He defended the tariffs as necessary to protect U.S. industries, claiming past administrations allowed the country to be “looted.” He promised the policy would generate billions and revive manufacturing. However, critics like Walmart’s CEO warned of rising consumer prices due to cost increases.

Trump also faced criticism over the deportation of Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a Salvadoran man removed despite court protections. In a heated interview, ABC’s Terry Moran challenged Trump’s justification, noting the evidence linking Garcia to MS-13 was likely doctored. Trump deflected, insisting Garcia was dangerous and accusing Moran of being unfair, further heightening tensions with the press.