The Megyn Kelly Show: Trump’s Tariff Shake-Up, Newsom’s Surprising Pivot, Censure Fallout Escalates

Release Date: March 7, 2025

Introduction

In this episode of The Megyn Kelly Show, host Megyn Kelly delves into a range of pressing political and economic issues shaping the current landscape. The discussion centers on President Trump's recent tariff adjustments, California Governor Gavin Newsom's unexpected stance on transgender athletes in sports, and the escalating fallout from the censure of Texas Congressman Al Green. Through insightful commentary and expert opinions, Kelly provides a comprehensive AM update on these significant developments.

Trump’s Tariff Shake-Up

President Trump has recently made strategic moves concerning tariffs, temporarily pausing some on Mexican goods until April 2. This decision affects products under the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Trade Agreement (USMCA), a replacement for NAFTA initiated during Trump's first administration. Trump justified the pause as an "accommodation and out of respect for President Sheinbaum," emphasizing ongoing efforts to address border security and fentanyl trafficking.

Economic Reactions and Market Impact

The market has reacted negatively to Trump's fluctuating tariff policies, leading to a noticeable slide. As Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick voiced on CNBC, there appears to be confusion regarding the administration's tariff strategy:

• Howard Lutnick [04:13]: “You’ve got to be kidding me. The President knows exactly what he wants. We know exactly what he wants, and our job is to try to execute exactly what he wants.”

Despite Lutnick's assertions, the inconsistency in tariff implementation has raised concerns among economists and the public alike. A YouGov poll highlighted a stark partisan divide, with 68% of Republicans supporting a 25% tariff on Mexico compared to only 11% of Democrats.

Impact on American Consumers

Critics argue that Trump's tariffs are counterproductive, increasing costs for American consumers and businesses. Economist Vance Ginn noted in the Courier Journal:

• Vance Ginn: “A trade deficit is not a sign of economic weakness. It reflects strong capital inflows and consumer purchasing power. Trying to fix it with tariffs only distorts markets and raises costs.”

Scott Bessant, Treasury Secretary, outlined the administration's rationale, emphasizing the need to protect American industries and leverage the country's significant purchasing power to negotiate better trade terms:

• Scott Bessant [04:54]: “President Trump believes three things. One, it is a good source of revenues. Two, it protects our important industries and the employees. And three, he uses it for negotiating.”

Bessant further elaborated on the strategic importance of reducing dependency on China for mineral processing:

• Scott Bessant [05:51]: “China still processes 85%... Every time a plant... tries to stand up a processing facility outside of China, China drops their prices and puts them out of business. That’s unacceptable.”

Despite public bravado from Chinese officials threatening retaliation, behind-the-scenes analyses suggest that China fears the long-term economic repercussions of a trade war, which could severely destabilize its economy reliant on U.S. demand.

Governor Gavin Newsom’s Surprising Pivot

In a notable departure from his party, California Governor Gavin Newsom has publicly stated that allowing biological males to compete in girls' sports is unfair. This stance was articulated during his appearance alongside conservative commentator Charlie Kirk on Kirk's new podcast.

• Howard Lutnick [10:08]: “I completely agree with you on that. So that's easy to call out the unfairness of that.”

Newsom’s position has ignited significant backlash within the Democratic Party. A joint statement from the California Assembly and State Senate LGBTQ Caucus expressed deep frustration and disappointment:

• California Assembly and State Senate LGBTQ Caucus: “We woke up profoundly sickened and frustrated by these remarks.”

This marks a continued trend of Newsom distancing himself from traditionally left-leaning policies. Earlier in the year, he vetoed a bill banning California prisons from cooperating with ICE, raising speculation about his broader political ambitions and potential bids for higher office in 2028.

Censure Fallout: Congressman Al Green

The episode also covers the contentious censure of Texas Congressman Al Green following his outburst during President Trump's joint address. The House of Representatives moved forward with the censure resolution, supported by only 10 Democrats alongside Republicans, passing with a vote of 224 to 198. This move signifies a rare bipartisan reprimand and has set off a chain reaction within Congress.

Consequences and Further Actions

Republican Congressman Andy Ogles from Tennessee has initiated resolutions to remove the participating Democrats from their committee assignments, citing unprofessional behavior:

• Andy Ogles: “If you want to act like a child in the halls of Congress, you will be treated like a child.”

The House Freedom Caucus has also filed a similar resolution against Congressman Green, with votes expected in the following week. Meanwhile, cultural repercussions are unfolding as Lin-Manuel Miranda has pulled Hamilton from its upcoming run at the Kennedy Center. This decision is a direct response to President Trump's appointment of Rick Grinnell as the interim executive director, aiming to align the center's values with the "America First" agenda.

• Jeffrey Seller: “It became untenable for us to participate in an organization that had become so deeply politicized.”

Rick Grinnell has dismissed Miranda’s actions as a "publicity stunt" unlikely to sway Republican attendance:

• Rick Grinnell: “Americans See you Lin.”

Conclusion

In this episode, Megyn Kelly effectively navigates through complex political developments, providing insightful analysis and highlighting the implications of Trump's tariff policies, Newsom's political maneuvers, and the significant repercussions of Congressman Green's censure. The episode underscores the deepening partisan divides and the intricate interplay between political decisions and their broader societal impacts.

Notable Quotes

• Donald Trump [00:09]: “We just weren't treated right. We were ripped off as a country. I've been saying it for a long time.”

• Howard Lutnick [04:13]: “You've got to be kidding me. The President knows exactly what he wants.”

• Vance Ginn [05:11]: “A trade deficit is not a sign of economic weakness. It reflects strong capital inflows and consumer purchasing power.”

• Scott Bessant [05:51]: “China still processes 85%... That’s unacceptable.”

• Howard Lutnick [10:08]: “I completely agree with you on that.”

• Andy Ogles [N/A]: “If you want to act like a child in the halls of Congress, you will be treated like a child.”

For more insights and updates, tune into The Megyn Kelly Show live on SiriusXM Triumph Channel 111 or stream on YouTube and all major podcast platforms.