Republican lawmakers are publicly supporting President Donald Trump in his trade dispute with Canada and pointing fingers at Prime Minister Mark Carney’s administration for abandoning negotiations. A group of GOP House members convened on Capitol Hill for a private meeting with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer to discuss tariffs.
While some Republicans are privately worried that escalating tariffs could harm their chances in the upcoming midterms, those who talked to CBC News after the meeting voiced their backing for the president’s trade tactics. Texas Republican August Pfluger commended Trump for bringing back manufacturing jobs and accused Canada of fueling the trade war.
Florida Congressman Brian Mast also criticized Canada for the breakdown in trade discussions, emphasizing that Canada rejected a favorable deal. When Greer exited the meeting, he avoided questions from reporters regarding the status of negotiations with Canada.
At the White House, Trump reiterated his stance that Canada has taken advantage of the U.S. in trade for a long time. He highlighted his concern about restrictions on U.S. bank operations in Canada and emphasized the importance of a fair deal for American banks.
On another note, South Carolina Representative Ralph Norman expressed concerns about the trade war’s impact on voters, particularly on affordability issues. Norman mentioned that Greer showed readiness to address how tariffs are impacting each state, indicating a willingness from the White House to listen to concerns.
Despite polls showing disapproval of Trump’s tariffs, many Congressional Republicans stood by the president’s trade stance with Canada, echoing his arguments. Missouri Congressman Eric Burlison cautioned against Canada imposing counter-tariffs on U.S. exports, stating that Canada relies more on the U.S. economically.
