DeLauro Statement on President Trump Trade War

Today, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) released the following statement: 

“I oppose President Trump launching a trade war with Canada and Mexico, who are already retaliating. It will be a blow to the middle class, working people, and the vulnerable.

“President Trump’s trade war on Canada and Mexico, which are part of the USMCA trade agreement, driven by his 25% tariff on nearly all imports from those countries, will drive up prices on all Americans. All three countries in the USMCA have, until now, acted based on the rules and norms set up by that agreement. It was President Trump who initially proposed the renegotiation of NAFTA into the USMCA, and I was among the Democrats who helped negotiate the agreement and secure wins on labor and other key provisions. The USMCA passed Congress with bipartisan support.

“I condemn President Trump launching a trade war that absolutely guarantees price increases on key products as well as retaliatory tariffs that will affect exporters across many states. We should expect price increases on a wide array of products, including gas, groceries, home construction materials, household appliances, and automobiles. These price increases are unacceptable at a time when Americans are already struggling with the high cost of living.

“I support the tariffs on China that serve America’s interests.”