“Thousands of factories have been stolen from our country,” said President Donald Trump, upon signing two executive orders pertaining to international trade. “But these voiceless Americans now have a voice in the White House. Under my administration, the theft of American prosperity will end. We’re going to defend our industry and create a level playing field for the American worker–finally.”

Here is how the president described the two executive orders. “First, I’m signing an executive order to ensure that we fully collect all duties imposed on foreign importers that cheat. They’re cheaters. From now on, those who break the rules will face the consequences–and they’ll be very severe consequences.

“Second, I am ordering the first-ever comprehensive review of America’s trade deficits and all violations of trade rules that harm the United States and the workers of the United States, just as I promised during my campaign….

“We’re going to investigate all trade abuses, and, based on those findings, we will take necessary and lawful action to end those many abuses.”