Press Release

SHELBURNE , VT — U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) today joined Vermont Governor Phil Scott at Shelburne Farms for the 47 th annual meeting of the New England Governors and Eastern Canadian Premiers. Senator Welch delivered remarks underscoring how the White House’s rhetoric against Canada—Vermont’s largest partner in trade—has hurt strained Vermonters’ relationship with their Canadian neighbors and harmed small businesses, farmers, and families across New England and Canada. In his remarks, Senator Welch highlighted that Canada is the largest trading partner for 34 U.S. states, including Vermont. In 2024 alone, trade with Canada accounted for 35% of Vermont’s exports, 67% of imports, and 56% of its total trade. One in four businesses in Vermont relies on trade with Canada. “Vermonters hold our centuries-old relationship with Canadians in high esteem, both emotionally and economically—and that’s true of all states in New England. The White House’s arbitrary tariffs and endless attacks on our northern neighbors have caused undeniable harm not only to our relationship but have been brutal on businesses, no matter where you’re from,” said Senator Welch . “Congress must reassert its constitutional power over trade policy and demand that President Trump answer for the irreparable economic and emotional harm his administration is creating.” View photos from the event below : In a Senate Finance Committee hearing last month, Senator Welch pushed U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer for answers about how President Trump’s new proposed 50% tariffs on Canadian would hurt small businesses in Vermont. The Senator also urged Ambassador Greer, the White House, and Canadian trade officials to come to a swift resolution on unresolved matters and to maintain the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), which was negotiated and signed by President Trump in his first term. Senator Welch is the lead sponsor of the Creating Access to Necessary American-Canadian Duty Adjustments (CANADA) Act , legislation that would exempt United States-owned small businesses from tariffs imposed on Canada. Senator Welch also cosponsors the bipartisan Trade Review Act , which seeks to restore Congress’ constitutional role in trade policy. Learn more about Senator Welch’s work by visiting his website or by following him on social media . ###