Trumps Tariffs Get Unexpected Boost From Centrist Democrat Golden

As President-elect Donald Trump prepares to impose tariffs on goods from Mexico, Canada, and China, a surprising voice of support has emerged from within the Democratic ranks. Rep. Jared Golden, a centrist Democrat from Maine, praised Trump’s approach as “off to a good start,” despite his party’s long-standing opposition to tariffs.

Golden’s endorsement is noteworthy, given that many Democrats have criticized Trump’s tariff plans as a burdensome tax on consumers. However, the congressman has taken a more nuanced view, embracing tariffs as a way to spur growth in domestic industries. In September, Golden introduced the “Balance Unequal International Labor and Trade for the United States of America” (BUILT USA) Act, which mirrors Trump’s proposal for a 10% tariff on all foreign imports.

The bill would increase the tariff by 5% for every year that the US maintains a trade deficit. While other Democrats have taken a more skeptical approach, citing economists who warn that tariffs would be passed on to regular consumers, Golden believes that tariffs can be part of a broader strategy to boost domestic industries. He points out that both parties have embraced tariffs in recent years, citing President Joe Biden’s decision to maintain tariffs that Trump had instituted during his first term.

The president-elect’s latest tariff proposal includes a 25% tax on imports from Mexico and Canada. Golden sees this move as an opportunity to address the trade deficit and boost domestic industries. He suggests that Trump’s tariffs should be coupled with other policies, such as investments in domestic manufacturing and subsidized American-made goods, to offset potential retaliatory tariffs from other countries.

While some Democrats may view Trump’s tariff plans as a step backward, Golden argues that they can be part of a broader strategy to revitalize the US economy. “Tariffs alone are not necessarily good or bad,” he said. “They’ve got their positives and negatives.” By combining tariffs with other policies, Golden believes it is possible to create economic policy that works in tandem to boost growth and prosperity.

The BUILT USA Act has garnered attention from lawmakers and economists alike, who see it as a potential model for bipartisanship on trade policy. With Golden’s endorsement, the bill now has a higher profile, and its prospects of becoming law have improved. As the US navigates complex trade relationships with its allies and partners, Golden’s pragmatic approach may hold the key to finding common ground with Trump’s administration.

The impact of tariffs on the economy is complex and multifaceted, with both positive and negative effects depending on the specific circumstances. While some argue that tariffs would boost domestic industries, others claim that they would increase prices for consumers. Golden’s endorsement suggests that there may be a middle path, one that balances protectionist trade policies with a commitment to economic growth.

As Trump prepares to take office, the fate of his tariff plans hangs in the balance. With Golden’s support, there is now a possibility that some Democrats may be willing to work with him on trade policy. The potential for bipartisanship on trade policy has been fueled by the recent economic downturn, which has highlighted the need for bold action to boost growth and create jobs.

The future of US trade relations will depend on whether this new bipartisan approach can gain traction and lead to meaningful reforms.