President Trump's administration removed tariffs on Canadian goods ahead of midterm elections, aiming to support Senator Susan Collins in Maine, a key race for congressional control. The move targets products vital to Maine's agriculture and manufacturing, including blueberries, potatoes, and specialized equipment.
The White House confirmed exemptions for nine agricultural products and processing materials, which Collins secured through lobbying. The decision follows weeks of tension between the U.S. and Canada over trade policies, with Canada imposing retaliatory tariffs on American goods worth $20 billion.
The trade war has hit Maine hard, with Canadian exports to the U.S. falling by over 20% and Canadian economic growth stalling. Collins, a long-serving Republican, faces a tough re-election battle against Democrat Troy Jackson, who has criticized her stance on Trump's trade policies.
Canada's trade minister noted the U.S. measures but emphasized readiness for continued cooperation. The move comes as both nations assess the impact of tariffs on their economies and the political implications for the upcoming midterms.