ROME, Georgia – President Trump declared "America's Golden Age has arrived" during his visit to North Georgia, where he highlighted the impact of the 50% steel tariff policy, announced $18 trillion in investment commitments, and officially endorsed the Republican candidate in Georgia's 14th District special election.
50% Tariffs and the Turnaround at Kusa Steel
Speaking to workers at Kusa Steel in Rome, President Trump called "tariff" his "favorite word in the dictionary." He argued that the 50% tariff imposed on imported steel saved American businesses from the risk of bankruptcy due to subsidized foreign products flooding the market.
Kusa Steel President, Andrew Seville, stated that the plant currently operates two shifts, six days a week, and is preparing to open a third shift. He mentioned that the company secured its first major contract in 10 years in October 2025.
President Trump asserted that his administration had secured $18 trillion in investment commitments within 11 months, compared to under $1 trillion under the previous administration.
Promoting Tax Reform and Trump Accounts
President Trump promoted the Working Families Tax Cut with its "100% expensing" mechanism and bonus depreciation, allowing businesses to reinvest in equipment. Business owner Kirkland Cowan of GMC Value Mart said the policy helped keep prices stable.
He also mentioned "Trump Accounts" – tax-free investment accounts for children – and announced that Michael and Susan Dell had contributed $6.25 billion to support 25 million children.
Election Remarks at The Varsity
During a stop at The Varsity in Rome, President Trump said there was a need to "clean up" the election system, calling for mandatory voter ID and the elimination of most mail-in ballots.
These remarks came after the FBI conducted a search of the Fulton County election headquarters to investigate irregularities related to the 2020 election.
Endorsing Clayton Fuller, Criticizing Opponents
President Trump officially endorsed Clayton Fuller – a former prosecutor and Air Force veteran – for the federal congressional seat left vacant after Marjorie Taylor Greene resigned.
He criticized Senator Jon Ossoff and stated that Democratic lawmakers voted against tax cuts.
The special election for Georgia's 14th District is scheduled for March 10, and if no candidate wins a majority, a runoff will be held on April 7.
Political Context
The visit took place at a sensitive time, with Democrats hoping for an opportunity to contest this seat due to the large number of Republican candidates and the President's approval ratings being closely watched ahead of the midterm elections.
In his speech, President Trump said: "We will restore Georgia values."
The trip combined economic messaging, political endorsement, and calls for election reform — keeping Georgia at the forefront of national politics.
