House Democrat says own party moving in ‘wrong direction’ on trade
Rep. Jared Golden, a moderate Democrat from Maine, is raising concerns within his party about their approach to trade. He has expressed some optimism about President Donald Trump’s support for tariffs, particularly Trump’s decision to implement a 10% baseline duty on all U.S. imports.
In a recent interview with Fox News Digital, Golden revealed that he had previously proposed legislation for a 10% universal tariff earlier in the year and in the previous Congress. He noted that his stance on tariffs has not been well-received by his fellow House Democrats, stating, “I think that they are moving in the wrong direction when it comes to trade.”
Golden believes that the Democratic Party has taken a “knee-jerk reaction” to the president’s trade policies and has shifted away from their traditional stance on trade issues. He emphasized the importance of looking beyond partisan lines and considering what would be beneficial for rural communities, working-class individuals, and cities like Detroit that have been negatively impacted by the current trade system.
Despite his willingness to work with President Trump on tariffs, Golden stressed the need for policies that prioritize the prosperity of American families. He highlighted the importance of supporting unions, trade programs, cutting regulations hindering production, promoting American energy, and using tariff revenue to bolster domestic manufacturers and create good-paying jobs.
While Golden is supportive of the idea of tariffs as a means to address the flaws in the current trade system, he emphasized that tariffs alone are not enough. He believes that a comprehensive approach is necessary to rewrite the trade system and ensure that it benefits working people.
As a representative who has shown a willingness to break from his party on various issues, including trade, border security, and student loan relief, Golden’s perspective adds a valuable voice to the ongoing debate on trade policy. His nuanced approach seeks to find a balance between protecting American interests and fostering economic growth.
In conclusion, Rep. Jared Golden’s warnings to his party about their approach to trade reflect a broader conversation within the Democratic Party about the direction of their trade policies. As discussions on trade continue, Golden’s insights offer a thoughtful and pragmatic perspective on how to navigate the complexities of international trade relations for the benefit of American workers and communities.
