GOP Senators Join Democrats to Oppose Canadian Tariffs, Citing Economic Risks

Republican senators have crossed party lines to support Democratic legislation blocking proposed 35% tariffs on Canadian imports. The CANADA Act, introduced by Vermont Senator Peter Welch, would exempt small businesses from the WHITE House's planned August 1 trade measures.

Canada remains the largest export market for 30 U.S. states, making the tariffs particularly contentious. "Imposing tariffs on Canada, Maine's closest trading partner, threatens jobs, drives up costs, and hurts small businesses," warned Senator Susan Collins (R-ME), highlighting the bipartisan concern over economic fallout.

Alaska's Lisa Murkowski emphasized the operational challenges: "Tariffs are forcing prices to rise and making it difficult to plan long-term." The bill gained immediate traction with five Democratic cosponsors, including Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer.