President Trump delivered a fiery speech at a Republican fundraiser, revealing how foreign leaders are reacting to his tough trade policies. He told the crowd that countries impacted by his tariffs are begging for deals, saying they’re “kissing my a” and “dying to negotiate.” The room erupted in cheers as he mocked foreign pleas, imitating their desperate tones: “Please, sir, make a deal. I’ll do anything.”
Trump defended his tariffs as a win for American workers, claiming they’re forcing other nations to respect U.S. interests. He argued that previous administrations let countries like China take advantage of America, but now the tables have turned. “We’re doing the ripping now,” he said, vowing to make America “stronger than ever.” Despite stock market drops, Trump called the tariffs “legendary” and predicted they’ll secure Republican victories in upcoming elections.
The president also took aim at critics within his own party, dismissing Republicans who want Congress to control trade talks. “You don’t negotiate like I negotiate,” he scoffed, insisting his approach is the only way to get results. He highlighted a record-breaking $35 million fundraising haul for the GOP, calling it proof that voters support his America-first agenda.
In a surprise move, the White House later paused tariffs on most countries for 90 days but hiked taxes on Chinese imports to 125%. Trump framed this as a strategic shift to focus pressure on Beijing, claiming China has exploited America for decades. Markets rallied after the announcement, with conservatives praising the move as a masterstroke in the trade war.
Trump linked his trade policies to border security, comparing illegal immigrants to the fictional killer Hannibal Lecter. “We don’t want Hannibal Lecter in our country,” he said, drawing applause for connecting economic strength to national safety. He promised more tariffs on foreign pharmaceuticals to push companies to make drugs in America.
Democrats and some economists warn the tariffs could worsen inflation, but Trump brushed off concerns. “I know what the hell I’m doing,” he declared, arguing short-term pain will lead to long-term gain. His administration insists the tariffs have already brought countries to the bargaining table, though reports show many nations are still waiting for talks to begin.
The speech reinforced Trump’s image as a fighter unafraid to disrupt global trade norms. Supporters cheered his refusal to back down, calling it a necessary step to rebuild American manufacturing. Critics accuse him of reckless economic gambles, but Trump remains confident voters will reward his boldness at the ballot box.
With midterms approaching, Republicans are betting Trump’s tough stance will energize their base. The president ended his speech by predicting a “monumental victory” for the GOP, saying Americans finally have a leader willing to put them first. “They voted for us because they want strength,” he said. “And that’s what I’m delivering.”
