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Greg Kelly’s recent commentary on Newsmax’s Greg Kelly Reports emphasized President Donald Trump’s assertive trade policies toward China, contrasting them with what he portrayed as Joe Biden’s weaker stance. Kelly argued that Trump’s 2025 tariff strategy—including a 125% levy on Chinese imports and reciprocal tariffs on 57 countries—demonstrates a commitment to protecting American workers and industries from unfair competition.
– : A 10% baseline tariff applies to all imports, with higher rates (11–50%) for countries with large U.S. trade deficits. China faces a 34% reciprocal tariff on top of existing Section 301 duties, totaling 125% for non-exempt goods.
– : Books and religious materials are exempt due to “informational materials” protections, though existing 7.5% tariffs on some Chinese books remain.
– : Canada and China imposed retaliatory tariffs (25% and 34%, respectively) on U.S. exports, including books, potentially raising costs for American businesses.
Kelly framed Trump’s approach as a long-term, uncompromising strategy to reset global trade dynamics. He highlighted Trump’s decades-long focus on reversing offshoring and protecting domestic manufacturing, contrasting it with what he characterized as Biden’s reluctance to confront China. Vietnam’s recent pledge to negotiate zero tariffs with the U.S. was cited as evidence that Trump’s policies are forcing trading partners to the table.
– : While critics warned of trade war risks, Kelly noted optimistic market responses, including a 3,000-point Dow surge, as proof of confidence in Trump’s “brinksmanship”.
– : Kelly dismissed elite “globalist” rhetoric favoring free trade, arguing Trump’s tariffs expose how past policies sacrificed U.S. jobs for cheap imports. He praised Trump’s “plainspoken” tactics—like threatening auto tariffs—as disrupting bureaucratic inertia.
Kelly repeatedly contrasted Trump’s agenda with Biden’s, accusing the latter of being “owned by China” due to perceived leniency. This narrative aligns with conservative media critiques of Biden’s handling of trade deficits and intellectual property disputes.
For conservative audiences, Kelly’s analysis reinforces Trump’s image as a disruptor willing to prioritize American interests over diplomatic niceties. His coverage downplays concerns about consumer costs, instead framing tariffs as a necessary corrective to decades of globalization.
