Vice President JD Vance visited a manufacturing plant in Berkeley County Thursday to promote the Trump Administration’s actions during its first 100 days. Air Force Two landed at Joint Base Charleston before the vice president traveled to Nucor Steel Berkeley.
The visit focused on the administration’s trade policy, including the reinstatement of Section 232 steel tariffs. These tariffs aim to level the playing field for domestic steel producers against foreign competition.
Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin and South Carolina Lt. Gov. Pamela Evette joined the vice president for the tour of the Nucor Steel facility. U.S. Rep. Nancy Mace also announced plans to attend.
Nucor leadership expressed support for the administration’s trade enforcement measures. The company’s chair, president, and CEO stated that tariffs help them invest in facilities and create American manufacturing jobs. Nucor is undergoing a modernization project at its Berkeley facility.
South Carolina Republican Party Chairman Drew McKissick welcomed the vice president. He mentioned border security, banning DEI policies, protecting women’s sports, and lowering inflation as achievements of the "Promises Made, Promises Kept" agenda.
Berkeley County Supervisor Johnny Cribb highlighted Nucor Steel’s role in the local community and its importance for national security. He noted the benefits of producing American steel instead of relying on other nations for the material.
Some businesses in South Carolina have expressed concerns about the impact of Trump’s tariffs, particularly those relying on imported goods. U.S. Congressman Jim Clyburn, the state's only Democrat in Congress, called the Trump administration’s economic record in its first 100 days a failure. He said the tariffs are increasing costs and putting businesses at risk in a trade-dependent state. Clyburn urged the administration to change its approach.
The vice president's visit to the steel plant aligns with the administration's emphasis on a manufacturing renaissance. This trip marks Vice President JD Vance’s first to South Carolina since taking office. The White House previously announced plans for the visit as part of a focus on the administration's early accomplishments.
“This administration has set a bold new standard for leadership,” SCGOP Chairman Drew McKissick said.
