Trump’s Tariffs Are Adding Steel Mill Jobs, and Crushing American Factories

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by Peter S. Goodman

February 24, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

President Trump’s tariffs on steel and aluminum have had a mixed impact on the U.S. economy, with some industries benefiting while others face significant challenges. The tariffs were intended to reduce foreign imports and revive domestic manufacturing by making it more expensive for companies to rely on cheaper imported materials. This strategy has led to a resurgence in certain sectors, such as the steel industry, where companies like Granite City Steel have been able to rehire workers laid off during previous downturns. For example, U.S. Steel announced plans to hire approximately 400 additional union workers at its Illinois facility, which was seen as evidence that Trump’s trade policies were working. However, the tariffs have also created significant challenges for other industries, particularly those reliant on steel and aluminum for their products. In St. Paul, Minnesota, Eric Hawkins of Park Tool, a family-owned business that manufactures bicycle repair tools, has seen his costs rise due to higher material prices caused by the tariffs. This increase has forced him to raise product prices by 10%, leading to flat sales growth and financial strain. Hawkins criticized Trump’s approach, arguing that while the tariffs may have helped some industries, they have hurt others without achieving the broader economic revival he expected. The situation took a new turn with the Supreme Court’s ruling in February 2026, which found that Trump’s reciprocal tariffs exceeded his authority. This decision has added further uncertainty to an already complex trade environment. The outcome highlights the ongoing debate over the effectiveness and legality of protectionist policies like tariffs. For industries directly impacted by these measures, such as steel mills and manufacturers, the future remains uncertain. While some companies may continue

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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/24/2026