Democrats criticized the Trump administration Saturday after smartphones, computers, and semiconductor chips were excluded from new global “reciprocal” tariffs, a move that benefits tech giants like Apple.
Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) linked the exemption to Apple CEO Tim Cook’s $1 million donation to Trump’s inaugural fund, calling it a “big return on investment.” She added that Trump’s tariff policy “leaves small businesses, farmers, and families out in the cold” while billionaires secure favorable treatment.
The exemption shields companies like Apple from increased costs, even as a baseline 10% tariff applies broadly to most foreign imports. Critics argue the decision undermines the administration’s pledge to boost American manufacturing and disproportionately favors corporations with political ties.
Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Rep. Greg Casar (D-Texas) also accused Trump of rewarding campaign donors, citing Apple’s planned $500 billion investment in the U.S.
Lawmakers have introduced the bipartisan Trade Review Act of 2025 to rein in presidential tariff authority and reduce economic uncertainty.
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