On May 1, 2025, Vice President J.D. Vance visited the Nucor Steel Berkeley plant in South Carolina’s Berkeley County to spotlight what he called America’s “manufacturing renaissance.” Joined by EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin, Vance toured the mill’s coil and structural steel production lines, praising the role of American-made steel in powering the economy and improving livelihoods.

Speaking before plant workers, Vance credited the administration’s 25% tariffs on imported steel and aluminum with revitalizing domestic production and creating new opportunities for U.S. manufacturers. Administrator Zeldin underscored that economic growth and environmental protection need not be at odds, lauding recent EPA initiatives aimed at supporting clean industrial expansion.

Nucor CEO Leon Topalian highlighted that, thanks to tariff measures, the Berkeley facility has seen a 25% increase in orders year-over-year and is undertaking a $625 million upgrade to enhance capacity. While some economists warn that higher input costs could ripple through other sectors, both the company and the administration remain optimistic about the long-term benefits of on-shore steel production.

Viewers can watch the Vice President’s tour and remarks live on Nucor Steel Berkeley’s YouTube channel or through local broadcasts on WACH, News3, and WCIV.

Sources:

• AP News, “Vance heralds 'industrial renaissance' in his visit to a South Carolina steel plant”

• WCIV/ABC3340, coverage of VP Vance and EPA Administrator Zeldin’s visit to Nucor Steel Berkeley

• Spectrum Local News, “As economy wavers, Vance boasts of Trump's 'golden age' of U.S. manufacturing”

• Axios, “Bret Baier to interview JD Vance at South Carolina steel plant”