Some U.S. lawmakers are pushing back against Trump’s tariffs — and they hope Canada notices

The clock is ticking for U.S. President Donald Trump’s next deadline to impose sweeping tariffs on Canadian goods. However, some American lawmakers are urging the president to reconsider and avoid tariffs altogether. Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear expressed his hope for a continued pause on tariffs, emphasizing the negative impact they would have on both American and Canadian consumers.

Beshear, a Democrat, criticized the proposed tariffs, highlighting the strong relationship between the U.S. and Canada. He stressed the importance of reaching a final agreement to avoid any escalation in trade tensions. With Kentucky being a major exporter to Canada, the tariffs would have a significant impact on the state’s economy.

Both of Kentucky’s Republican senators, Mitch McConnell and Rand Paul, have also spoken out against tariffs, demonstrating bipartisan opposition to the proposed measures. Senator Paul emphasized that tariffs are simply taxes that would lead to higher prices and reduced trade.

Illinois Representative Nikki Budzinski echoed concerns about the impact of retaliatory tariffs on farmers, making it harder for them to stay afloat. She emphasized the need to maintain stable relations with Canada and avoid unnecessary trade conflicts.

As part of a last-minute deal to avoid tariffs, Canada agreed to appoint a “fentanyl czar” and take steps to combat organized crime and money laundering. Governor Beshear acknowledged the opioid epidemic in the U.S., but noted that the Canadian border is not a major source of fentanyl entering the country.

There have been speculations that Trump’s tariff threats are linked to a desire to pressure Canada into becoming a U.S. state. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau revealed that Trump had raised the idea of annexing Canada during a meeting, citing the country’s critical minerals as a potential motivation.

Despite these tensions, efforts are being made to strengthen cooperation between the two countries. Canada’s incoming fentanyl czar is expected to play a key role in coordinating efforts to combat the opioid crisis. Law enforcement officials, including RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme, support the appointment of the czar to enhance collaboration with the U.S. and Mexico.

While some premiers have expressed concerns about the delay in appointing the fentanyl czar, there is a collective push to address the issue promptly. Governor Beshear emphasized that the majority of Americans do not share Trump’s views on Canada, and called for a resolution that preserves the strong relationship between the two countries.