Trump Vows to Reverse Pollution Rules and Block Steel Merger
ICARO Media Group
In a campaign stop in Pennsylvania, Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump made some bold promises to his supporters. Trump pledged to rescind a Biden administration rule that limits power plant pollution and reiterated his commitment to blocking the planned purchase of U.S. Steel by Nippon Steel. These remarks mark Trump's most detailed economic stance during his campaign so far.
Speaking to a crowd of supporters in York, Pennsylvania, Trump also emphasized his plan to limit foreign access to domestic markets, asserting that he would ensure the supply chain for essential goods would be 100% American if elected on November 5th. However, he did not offer specific details on how he plans to achieve this goal, apart from suggesting the imposition of tariffs on other nations.
While addressing the audience, Trump refrained from launching personal attacks on his Democratic rival, Vice President Kamala Harris, as some of his advisers had urged. Instead, he focused primarily on policy issues, labeling Harris as a "communist" and criticizing her policy stances, though several of his claims were misleading.
Trump's opposition to the planned merger between Nippon Steel and U.S. Steel has raised concerns among unionized workers in crucial swing states like Pennsylvania. Firmly opposing the deal, Trump stated, "I will stop Japan from buying United States Steel. They shouldn't be allowed to buy it." U.S. Steel responded to Trump's remarks, affirming their commitment to the transaction, claiming it to be the best deal for their employees, shareholders, communities, and customers. The company argued that the partnership with Nippon Steel, a long-standing investor from Japan, would strengthen the American steel industry's competitiveness and resilience against China.
Following his stance on the merger, Trump also pledged to eliminate environmental regulations put forth by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Specifically, he vowed to overturn rules published in April that aim to reduce air and water pollution from power plants, a move that could potentially hinder efforts to cut over 1 billion metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions by 2047. Trump declared, "Instead of shutting down power plants, we will open dozens and dozens more, and they'll happen fast."
In addition to his stance on pollution rules, Trump's economic plan includes increasing the use of "advanced small, modular nuclear reactors" and invoking the Defense Production Act to boost essential product manufacturing. He also promised tax cuts for families, businesses, Social Security disbursements, and tips. However, concerns have been raised by experts about Trump's ability to simultaneously slash the deficit, casting doubt on his claim.
In a short interview with Reuters, Trump expressed openness to rescinding the $7,500 tax credit for electric vehicle purchases. Furthermore, he mentioned the possibility of involving J.D. Vance, a Republican senator and his running mate, in his administration. Interestingly, Trump disclosed that he would consider bringing Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and a vocal supporter of his, into his administration if given the opportunity.
As Pennsylvania emerges as a crucial battleground state in the upcoming election, the race between Harris and Trump remains extremely tight, according to most opinion polls. Both candidates have strategically campaigned in different regions of the state in an attempt to gain an edge. Trump's running mate, Senator J.D. Vance, recently addressed supporters in Philadelphia, highlighting the importance of securing votes in this highly contested state.