Gillibrand slams Trump’s new Canadian tariffs and warns they will drive up costs for New York families and small businesses

New York – U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand is criticizing the Trump administration’s latest tariffs on Canadian goods, warning that the new trade measures could increase costs for American families and put additional pressure on businesses across New York.

The statement from Gillibrand came as President Donald Trump and his administration launched another round of tariffs targeting Canada. The senator argued that the policy conflicts with promises made by Trump and Republicans to reduce the cost of living for Americans.

“President Trump and Republicans promised to lower costs and make life more affordable, but they’ve used their total power in Washington to make life more expensive than ever.

“They’ve cut Medicare and Medicaid to give tax cuts to billionaires, launched a reckless war in Iran that sent gas prices skyrocketing, and pushed tariffs that are making groceries and essentials more expensive.

“Let’s be clear: these latest tariffs against Canada directly hit Americans. They will only increase costs on New York families and hurt our state’s small businesses. Trump needs to stop the political games, go back to the negotiation table, and get a deal done that lowers costs and strengthens our economy instead of harming it.”

Gillibrand said the impact of the tariffs could be especially significant for New York because of the state’s close economic ties with Canada. Canada is among New York’s largest export markets for goods and services, while New York imports more than $20 billion worth of products from Canada each year.

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That relationship means changes in trade policy can reach far beyond the border. Businesses that rely on Canadian products, suppliers or customers could face higher expenses, while some of those costs may eventually be passed on to consumers.

The senator also pointed to previous criticism and legal challenges involving the Trump administration’s tariff policies. The tariffs have previously been found unconstitutional, according to the information provided in Gillibrand’s statement, while other tariff measures have already contributed to higher costs for New Yorkers.

Gillibrand’s comments also come amid continued public debate over the economic effects of the president’s trade policies. Several polls cited in the statement have shown that a majority of Americans oppose Trump’s tariff increases, particularly as concerns grow about their effect on household budgets and everyday prices.

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For New York, the issue carries particular weight because of the state’s extensive commercial relationship with Canada. Manufacturers, retailers, service providers and other businesses that depend on cross-border trade could all be affected by changes in tariffs.

Gillibrand called on the Trump administration to return to negotiations with Canada rather than continue escalating trade tensions. She argued that an agreement that reduces costs and supports economic growth would be a better outcome for families and businesses in New York and across the country.

The latest dispute adds another chapter to the broader trade tensions between the United States and Canada, with the economic consequences likely to remain a major point of discussion for consumers, businesses and lawmakers.