Trump Trims Some Canada Tariffs but Adds New Products to the List

The White House says President Trump will drop tariffs on certain Canadian goods while putting duties on other products from the same trading partner. A proclamation signed Friday removes some items from the list hit with 50% tariffs over the summer under a 96 year old trade law, known as Section 338. In their place, a fact sheet names valves, carpets, waste products and others. The changes take effect October 30, four days before the November 3 election. A White House spokesman said the move responds to Canada’s discriminatory treatment and retaliation against American commerce.

Susan Collins Claims Credit for Maine Tariff Exemptions

Senator Susan Collins of Maine said she pushed the administration to exempt nine categories of products important to her state’s agriculture and industry. These include corrugated paper, plastic boxes and packing bags, refrigeration equipment, several types of machinery, and seaweed and algae products. Her announcement came less than an hour before the White House revealed the new tariffs, and it did not mention them. Her spokeswoman said she requested exemptions for products that matter to Maine and will keep doing so. Maine imports far more from Canada than from any other country, and many of these tariffs have strained its businesses.

Troy Jackson Hits Back in Tight Maine Senate Race

Collins’ Democratic opponent, logger Troy Jackson, says she enabled Trump’s trade war and now wants credit for bringing a cup of water to a fire. Tariffs have been a top issue in the race, and voters have already started casting ballots. At an October 6 debate, Collins took credit for removing items like road salt, and Jackson replied that nobody can eat road salt. Collins says she will keep seeking more relief and a broader trade deal with Canada.