Golden statement on President Trump’s new tariffs

WASHINGTON — Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) released the following statement regarding President Trump’s imposition of new tariffs on Canada, Mexico and China: 

“President Trump campaigned on tariffs as a tool to level the playing field between American workers and industries and our foreign competitors,” Golden said. “I don’t agree with Trump on everything, but he’s right that the old deal stinks, and we need a new one.” 

“Tariffs push back against decades of free trade and globalization that prioritized low prices above all else. It was a race to the bottom that left America deep in trade debt and dependent on foreign nations and gutted our manufacturing sector, domestic supply chains, and entire middle-class communities. 

“By privileging our own production and industries — something other countries already do — tariffs can help us rewire our economy for production, not just consumption. We can incentivize job creation and manufacturing while leveling the playing field and rebalancing our trade. These tariffs are also a leveraging tool to help crack down on the deadly flow of fentanyl into our country. 

“Reversing the damage of decades of globalization will take time. In the meanwhile, every dollar raised in tariff revenue should be used to offset costs for Americans or invest in and protect American jobs and industries. Paired with increased energy production, support for unions, regulatory reform, and infrastructure investment, tariffs are one piece of the puzzle for building a strong, production-based economy that works for working families.”

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