In a recent campaign rally held on August 20, 2023, in Michigan, former President Donald Trump criticized Mexico’s handling of various issues concerning migration, tariffs, and trade relations. He contended that Mexico is exploiting the situation to its advantage, particularly in the context of a migration crisis that he believes is being neglected by the Mexican government.
Mr. Trump alleged that Mexico aims to export electric vehicles to the United States without facing any tariffs, stating, “Mexico is taking advantage of our country. They want $200 billion just to discuss matters. They would not make such demands with me. I believe they wanted $2 billion merely to have a conversation. Will we engage in talks? We require $2 billion before we even commence discussions. That would not be permissible under my administration; I would assert, ‘Oh, really? This relationship with Mexico is over.’”
Furthermore, Mr. Trump directed blame toward Vice President Kamala Harris, claiming she facilitated significant investments in Mexico for electric vehicle manufacturing, specifically referencing the Tesla plants announced by CEO Elon Musk in Nuevo León. He indicated that upon returning to the presidency, he would consider imposing tariffs as high as 200%.
He continued with a strong admonition against agreements with Mexico, stating, “They should be informed that refusal to engage will result in barring their vehicles from American markets, as they have appropriated approximately 32 percent of our automotive industry over the years.”
Mr. Trump elaborated on the ongoing construction of expansive automotive plants in Mexico, asserting that under his leadership, such developments would not occur without ramifications. He elaborated, “These entities believe they can manufacture vehicles and export them to the United States tariff-free; this will not transpire. We will impose tariffs ranging from 100% to 200%.”
Reflecting on his previous tenure, Mr. Trump recalled the construction of the U.S.-Mexico border wall between 2017 and 2021, during which he alleged to have successfully pressured former Mexican President Enrique Peña Nieto to deploy military support for border protection.
He recounted, “I urged the Mexican government to position 28,000 soldiers for the border protection during the wall’s construction; otherwise, they would face tariffs of up to 100% on all vehicles crossing into the United States.” He praised President Peña Nieto, stating, “He was a great guy, still is, although he is no longer in office. We had affirmative discussions about the support from Mexico, and in return, we received favorable terms during those negotiations.”
In conclusion, Mr. Trump’s statements illustrate a harsh stance on U.S.-Mexico relations, asserting a need to reevaluate and potentially redefine the terms of trade and cooperation should he regain office. His remarks underscore a broader campaign message focusing on economic nationalism and a hardline approach to foreign relations, particularly concerning trade agreements.
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