Leavitt and Pelosi Clash Over Trump’s China Tariff Policy

Tense Exchange at Press Briefing

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi

clashed during a briefing on President Trump’s “reciprocal” tariffs targeting China.

Leavitt reminded reporters that Pelosi once warned against America’s dependence on Chinese manufacturing — a remark that caught Pelosi off guard.

Pelosi Pushes Back

Pelosi criticized the policy as “economic recklessness,”

arguing that new tariffs could raise costs for families and disrupt global markets.

Leavitt’s Response

Leavitt clarified that her comment wasn’t personal but meant to highlight bipartisan concern over China’s trade practices.

She noted that both parties have supported protective measures in the past.

Broader Debate

The exchange reignited national discussion about balancing economic sovereignty with global stability.

Analysts say Pelosi favors multilateral pressure on China, while Leavitt defends direct tariffs as key to protecting U.S. jobs.