Former President Donald Trump has threatened to impose heavy tariffs on Mexican goods to stop illegal crossings and drug trafficking into the U.S.
During his last campaign rally before Election Day, Trump announced his plans to levy a 25% tariff on all imports from Mexico, escalating up to 100% if the measures fail to curb illegal activities, Fox News reported.
At the J.S. Dorton Arena in Raleigh, North Carolina, Trump expressed his dissatisfaction with Mexico's current efforts to halt the flow of migrants and drugs across the border.
He detailed a scale of punitive tariffs starting at 25%, with subsequent increases to 50%, 75%, and eventually 100% if needed, to pressure Mexico into compliance.
Before a crowd of supporters and key Republican figures, including Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders and Florida Senator Marco Rubio, Trump outlined comprehensive plans that also featured stringent immigration enforcement policies.
His threats are part of a broader electoral strategy as Republicans show strong early voting turnout in North Carolina, highlighting a contentious lead-up to the polls.
Republican attendees cheered as Trump detailed steps to tackle migrant criminal networks using the Alien Enemies Act of 1798. He also proposed harsh penalties for migrants who commit serious crimes in the U.S., intensifying his hardline stance on immigration enforcement.
Donald Trump explained his approach:
I'm going to inform her [Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum] on day one, or sooner, that if they don't stop this onslaught of criminals and drugs coming into our country, I'm going to immediately impose a 25% tariff on everything they send into the United States of America. You're the first ones I've told that to. Congratulations, North Carolina. And it's only got a 100% chance of working because if that doesn't work, I'll make it 50, and if that does work, I'll make it 75 for the tough guys. Then I'll make it 100.
In addition to tariff threats, Trump announced plans to ban all sanctuary cities and impose automatic jail terms and the death penalty for migrants found guilty of killing Americans or law enforcement officers. These comments reflect his continued focus on strict immigration controls, a central theme in his campaign.
During the rally, Trump also criticized Mexico's economic dealings with the U.S., accusing them of exploitation. His remarks align with his longstanding critique of international trade agreements and border security policies.
Data underscored the event's significance, showing a GOP lead in early voting within North Carolina. Over 1.4 million Republican ballots had been cast compared to 1.35 million Democratic ballots, setting the stage for a tightly contested race.
Trump's campaign strategy, fueled by aggressive policy proposals and a focus on national security concerns, was evident throughout his speech. He reiterated his iconic slogan, signaling a continued commitment to the themes that initially brought him into office while promising to tackle new challenges in his potential next term.
In conclusion, Trump's campaign stop in North Carolina was marked by bold declarations and a promise of tough measures against Mexico to address illegal immigration and drug trafficking. His proposals include significant tariffs and stringent domestic policies aimed at securing the U.S. border, reflecting his ongoing commitment to a strict immigration stance.
