Rep. Jared Golden, D-Maine, whose sprawling congressional district runs along the Canadian border, is backing President Donald Trump in his escalating tariff fight with Ottawa, warning that any retaliation could ultimately hurt Canada.
''If Canada thinks they’re better off without our goods, I wish them good luck,'' Golden told the Portland Press Herald. ''I suspect in the long run, it won’t go well for them.''
For Golden, who represents constituents with longstanding economic and personal ties across the border, the trade dispute has particular significance.
Golden, 44, was first elected to Congress in 2018 and is not seeking reelection in 2026. He has cited threats against his family in explaining his decision to leave Congress, according to the Portland Press Herald.
His support for Trump’s tariff strategy comes as tensions between Washington and Ottawa have intensified following the breakdown of trade talks.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has vowed to respond to Trump’s 50% tariffs with matching measures, according to Mediaite. The U.S. tariffs took effect Aug. 22.
Trump has also stepped up his criticism of Ottawa, writing Tuesday on Truth Social that Canada has been ''Ripping Off the U.S.A. for decades'' and accusing the country of imposing tariffs of 400% or more on American farmers.
''I deal with many countries, and Canada is easily the most difficult and unreasonable,'' Trump wrote. ''They feel entitled, but they are not a State, and will be entitled no longer!''
Golden’s position puts him at odds with many Democrats who have criticized Trump’s tariff policies, but it is consistent with his history of breaking with his party on some major issues.
His district includes communities across northern and central Maine, stretching from the Canadian border south to areas around Lewiston and encompassing cities including Bangor and Presque Isle.
You need to be a member of Citizens' Task Force on Wind Power - Maine to add comments!
Join Citizens' Task Force on Wind Power - Maine