Press Releases

Ways and Means Committee Ranking Member Richard E. Neal (D-MA) released the following statement after President Trump levied a 25% tariff hike on Canada and Mexico, and a lower-than-promised 10% tariff hike on China, leaving the American people to pay more on imported goods:  

“Every promise made by the President during the campaign about lowering costs, reducing inflation, and putting the working and middle-class first was a lie. These reckless tariffs take a sledgehammer where a scalpel is necessary, and the American people will pay the price. Experts of every stripe agree: Americans should expect to pay more than $800 on average while the U.S. output shrinks. 

“Not only is this move economically precipitous, but it jeopardizes our country’s national security and does nothing to firm up our fiscal house. Every move made to isolate us from our peaceful allies is a move that strengthens our adversaries and competitors while plummeting revenues and enriching the already rich. Make no mistake: he is doing nothing to protect American industry and everything to raise costs. 

“Tariffs and broader trade policy serve an important purpose. Targeted, thoughtful measures aimed at specific industries can protect American interests and workers, and demonstrate thorough policymaking. That’s not what the President is doing. These broad, blanket tariffs that treat our allies like enemies are irresponsible and will cost us jobs while driving up the cost of everything – from groceries and energy to cars and housing.”

“In fact, Trump is treating China better than our friends. The question is why. His weakness after spending the entire campaign promising a tough-on-China approach wreaks of back-door favors that benefit his billionaire cabinet. 

“Enough with the self-interest and billionaire-enrichment at the expense of the people, Mr. President.”

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