In a shocking revelation that has sent ripples through political circles, former President Donald Trump announced today that a baseline 10% tariff on all countries will remain in effect, even after trade deals are finalized. Speaking to a packed room of reporters, Trump emphasized that while some countries may offer zero tariffs, they will not receive reciprocity, hinting at possible tariffs as high as 60% on nations that have historically taken advantage of the U.S. trade system.

The former president didn’t stop there; he also stirred controversy by suggesting that he would consider tax increases on wealthier Americans. “I would love to do it, frankly,” Trump stated, framing the potential tax hikes as a means of redistributing wealth to benefit middle and lower-income families. “It’s really a redistribution,” he asserted, challenging conservative Republicans who argue that such measures would hurt small business owners.

Trump’s remarks come amid ongoing discussions about the SALT tax credits, where he acknowledged the complexities of the issue, particularly regarding states like New York and California. “Bad management” in these states, he claimed, has exacerbated their tax burdens. He promised that solutions are being sought, but the path forward remains uncertain.

As the political landscape braces for the fallout from these statements, Trump’s willingness to entertain tax increases for the wealthy could redefine his strategy ahead of upcoming elections. With trade negotiations heating up and tax policies under scrutiny, all eyes will be on how these developments unfold in the coming weeks. The stakes have never been higher, and Trump’s bold declarations are sure to ignite fierce debates across the nation.