In the coming weeks, President Trump is expected to revisit tariffs on steel and aluminum imports after setting them at an historic 50 percent earlier this summer — a significantly higher rate than he placed on other countries and goods. Just last week the tariffs were expanded to include a number of goods derived from steel and aluminum products and chemicals.

While the president hashed out trade agreements with the European Union, Japan, and others over the past two months, the steel and aluminum tariffs have remained untouched. Coupled with his approval of the Nippon Steel acquisition of U.S. Steel, the tariffs are Trump’s attempt to shore up the domestic supply chain for manufacturing. Supporters argue they are vital for national security and the long-term strength of American industry.

But markets are growing impatient. These tariffs threaten to drive up costs for essential domestic projects — the very manufacturing work and defense and infrastructure investments the president has been championing.

While Trump has relented on tariff rates before, he shows no sign of letting up on steel and aluminum, and this is consistent with his ambitious goal of bringing manufacturing back to the U.S. Nevertheless, he should consider strategic carve-outs for trade with key allies and for purchases tied to critical defense and infrastructure. Doing so would allow the administration to preserve the tariffs’ core intent while minimizing their unintended harm, balancing Trump’s pro-tariff stance with economic realities.

For example, as the White House continues tariff negotiations with countries across the globe, they might consider pausing the 50 percent rate imposed on steel and aluminum for top allies we import these products from, like Canada or Brazil. Industry-specific exemptions for defense production and private sector infrastructure development, two areas where the Trump administration wants to keep winning, should also be on the table.

Various companies that use domestic steel and aluminum resources are already seeing the effects of the tariffs in the form of higher prices. This expense has hit as far as auto manufacturers, the aerospace industry, and processing plants. Yet, domestic steel and aluminum producers themselves remain supportive of the tariffs as they seek out an edge over foreign competitors.

Building military equipment and airplanes is a critical priority of America’s defense strategy in combating China. Deregulating construction and manufacturing will only go so far if resources are too costly for the taxpayers to foot. Bringing down the cost of goods like steel or aluminum can supercharge the Trump agenda. The existing high tariff rates jeopardize Trump’s goal of securing a strong America.

Republicans cannot let the benefits of infrastructure and manufacturing growth be claimed as an issue by “abundance” Democrats. It is the smaller government approach of the GOP that leads to low prices and a booming economy. Policies put in place by Republicans are doing the heavy lifting for rapid development in places like Florida and Texas. Tariffing steel and aluminum without a second thought could undo these great achievements and give the left an opportunity to run away with this issue.

Strong policies endure when they are flexible enough to meet reality as conditions change. If tariffs are to keep serving their purpose, they must not become a burden heavier than the problem they were meant to solve. The administration has an opportunity to show that strength lies not only in setting bold measures, but in knowing when and where to revise them.

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Sam Raus is the David Boaz Resident Writing Fellow at Young Voices, a political analyst and public relations professional. Follow him on X: @SamRaus1.