Welch Statement on Trump’s Escalation of Trade War with Canada

BURLINGTON, VT — U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) today released the following reaction to President Trump’s threat to impose a 35% tariff on Canada, beginning August 1, 2025: “The president’s unnecessary trade war with Canada has already hurt Vermont’s businesses, farmers, and manufacturers—this escalation will only throw fuel on the fire. “Canada is Vermont’s top trading partner, and the same is true of 34 states. Canada is our friend and our neighbor. This uncertainty is disruptive and detrimental to our economy. Tourism in Vermont from Canada has dramatically decreased as a result of the president’s careless rhetoric, hurting hotels, restaurants, and downtowns. Manufacturers are cutting their workforce . Farmers are paying more for fertilizer. Tariffs are taxes, and the president is threatening to raise taxes on American consumers.” ###