U.S. tariffs on Canada: (Almost) nobody wants this, except the guy who really does

As Canadians brace themselves for the impact of potentially crippling U.S. tariffs, they can take some comfort in knowing that they are not alone in their opposition to such measures. Recent polls have shown that a mere 29 per cent of Americans support the idea of imposing tariffs on all imports. This sentiment extends beyond just the general population, with key figures within the Republican Party also voicing their concerns.

Even prominent Republicans like Senators Rand Paul and Mitch McConnell have criticized the idea of across-the-board tariffs, warning that they would lead to higher prices for American consumers. Major business groups, including the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, have also come out against tariffs, highlighting the negative impact they would have on manufacturers, farmers, and ranchers in the country.

The retail sector is particularly worried about the potential consequences of broad-based tariffs, as are members of the U.S. oil industry. Despite Trump’s rhetoric about not needing oil and gas imports, the reality is that Canadian producers and U.S. refineries are deeply interconnected. The president of a top petroleum lobby has even called for shielding oil exports from Canada from any trade actions.

The opposition to tariffs is not limited to politicians and business groups. Economists from across the political spectrum have also expressed concerns about the negative effects of tariffs. Experts from renowned think tanks like the Cato Institute and the American Enterprise Institute have warned against the risks associated with imposing high tariffs. Even the conservative economic orthodoxy, which has historically favored free trade, is firmly against the idea of across-the-board tariffs.

Despite the overwhelming consensus among experts, Trump has surrounded himself with individuals who support his protectionist trade policies. His new economic advisors have defended tariffs as a means of boosting the U.S. economy, but have also acknowledged the potential negative consequences of retaliatory measures from other countries.

While a majority of Americans remain opposed to tariffs on Canadian goods, there is a significant divide along party lines. A majority of Democrats and independents are against tariffs, while a significant portion of Republicans support Trump’s trade policies. However, even within his own party, there is a sizable minority that disagrees with the president’s approach.

As the debate over tariffs continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the American public will react to potential price increases and other economic repercussions. Regardless of the outcome, it is clear that the sentiment against large across-the-board tariffs is widespread and bipartisan.