Trump Eases 50% Tariffs on Some Canadian Goods Ahead of Midterms

President Donald Trump on Friday eased 50% tariffs on selected Canadian imports, a move that could help Maine businesses before the midterm elections. The White House said an order from Trump exempts certain plywood sheets, paper products, machinery, refrigeration equipment, packing materials and fresh and dried seaweed. The exemptions take effect Oct. 30, four days before the Nov. 3 elections. The order also placed additional Canadian goods under the 50% tariff, including carpets, paints, shampoos, cocoa powder, wooden coffins, air conditioners, chest freezers, archery equipment and canoes. Republican Senator Susan Collins is in a closely contested reelection race. Reuters reported that Collins welcomed the exemptions and said the relief would help blueberry, potato, apple and seaweed industries in Maine. Collins said many farmers and growers depend on specialized equipment, packaging materials and other Canadian products, and that substitutes might be unavailable or substantially more costly. Democrat Troy Jackson, who is challenging Collins, criticized the administration over trade policy and criticized Collins for supporting the Trump agenda. Jackson said Friday that trade wars under Trump had increased costs and hardship for Maine residents. Jackson accused Collins of claiming credit for fixing problems that her party helped create. Reuters reported that Senator Ron Wyden of Oregon, the top Democrat on the Senate Finance Committee, called the changes a desperate, last-minute effort to save the political career of Collins. Trump imposed 50% tariffs on $20 billion of Canadian imports in August after trade talks broke down. Canada responded in September with tariffs of 15% to 50% on $20 billion of U.S. goods. White House spokesperson Matthew Middleton said the latest adjustments refine existing tariffs while addressing how Canada treats U.S. commerce. Canadian Trade Minister Dominic LeBlanc said Ottawa was evaluating the changes and remained willing to pursue constructive negotiations. The White House did not immediately answer a request for comment. The trade dispute also creates political difficulties for Republicans in Michigan and other states that rely on trade with Canada. Trump abandoned a threatened ban on Canadian aircraft manufacturer Bombardier Inc. this week after Kansas lawmakers applied pressure. Those lawmakers included Republican Senator Roger Marshall, who faces a difficult reelection contest.