Kevin Rudd faces first Trump 2.0 test as US places tariffs on steel, aluminium
Australia secured an exemption from similar tariffs in 2018. Can its current ambassador to the US do the same — or will businesses face a costly “slap in the face”?
Kevin Rudd is facing his biggest test yet as Australia’s ambassador to the US, as he seeks an exemption from Donald Trump’s new 25% tariffs on aluminium and steel.
Securing a carve-out would be difficult under any circumstances, but Rudd’s past criticism of Trump may make the task even more challenging.
The Coalition has wasted no time framing Australia’s ability to avoid the tariffs as a referendum on Rudd’s performance, highlighting its own success in securing an exemption during Trump’s previous administration.
Coalition figures have regularly questioned whether Rudd’s past remarks — including calling Trump a “traitor to the West” on social media — will undermine his ability to work with the president. Trump’s announcement on Monday of sweeping new tariffs has increased pressure on Rudd, raising questions about both his future in the role and the potential economic impact on Australian businesses.
