White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt defended President Donald Trump's newly imposed reciprocal tariffs on Thursday, describing the move as “a common-sense policy” aimed at restoring fairness in international trade. The policy comes as part of a broader effort by the administration to recalibrate the United States' economic relationships with global trade partners.

Speaking to CNN, Leavitt criticized other nations for taking advantage of the U.S. over the past several decades. “And if these countries wanted to negotiate, if these countries wanted to do what's right, they’ve had 70 years to do it,” she said. “Instead, they have been ripping off American workers. And President Trump has made it very clear that this is a policy he was going to implement.”

Leavitt’s comments underscore the administration’s stance that the new tariffs are not abrupt or reactionary, but a continuation of President Trump’s long-held economic vision. The reciprocal levies target countries that the administration believes have historically benefited from unfair trade practices at the expense of American industry and labor.

Addressing concerns about market volatility and investor confidence following the announcement of the tariffs, Leavitt urged the financial community to trust in Trump’s economic leadership. “This is a president who is doubling down on his proven economic formula from his first term,” she said. That formula, according to the White House, includes strong job growth, tax cuts, and a firm approach to trade negotiations.

The remarks are part of a broader messaging campaign by the administration to frame the tariffs not as protectionist, but as corrective and strategic. Trump’s economic team maintains that the long-term benefits of fairer trade agreements and rebalanced trade flows outweigh the short-term market reactions.

With these new measures, the White House signals a clear intention to continue pressing for major trade reforms. While the administration remains open to negotiations, it is now placing the responsibility on foreign governments to come to the table with proposals that ensure mutual fairness.

As global markets and international leaders assess the impact of Trump’s policies, the administration is preparing for potential pushback. Nonetheless, Leavitt’s statement reinforces that the president remains steadfast in his commitment to American workers and long-term economic sovereignty.