Jared Golden backs Trump's tariffs, calls for worker-focused policies
- House Democrat Jared Golden supports Trump's proposed 10% blanket tariffs, similar to his own earlier proposal.
- Golden emphasizes the need for tariffs to be paired with policies benefiting American workers and families.
- His stance represents a notable departure from most Democratic opposition, indicating potential bipartisan support.
In an unusual display of bipartisanship, Representative Jared Golden, a Democrat from Maine, expressed cautious support for President Donald Trump's proposal of a 10% blanket tariff on U.S. imports. This announcement came on April 2, 2025, a significant day in the political landscape, as Golden pointed out that he had previously advocated for a similar tariff policy earlier in the year. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that the proposed tariffs are implemented in a way that prioritizes the prosperity of American families and workers. Golden has been known to diverge from the party line, making this support noteworthy, especially in the context of the generally negative reception from fellow Democrats. Moreover, Golden stated that while he agrees with the 10% tariff proposal, he needed more time to assess the broader package of tariffs introduced by Trump. His focus is on ensuring that tariffs are used strategically to combat what he described as a 'rigged trade system.' He encouraged the need for supporting unions, apprenticeship programs, and using the revenue generated from the tariffs to bolster domestic manufacturing, which in turn could help provide better-paying jobs for American workers. He noted these tariffs should not represent the final step but rather a first step towards broader reforms in trade policy. In light of the sentiment surrounding this issue, other Democratic lawmakers have reacted with trepidation. For example, Representative Debbie Dingell expressed concerns regarding the immediate and chaotic implementation of these tariffs. While acknowledging that tariffs can have strategic benefits, she remains wary of their consequences. Additionally, Representative Gregory Meeks articulated plans to challenge the national emergency declaration that Trump invoked to justify the tariffs, highlighting a divide within the party regarding how best to address the complexities of tariffs and international trade issues. Golden's position stems from his understanding of his constituents in Maine's 2nd Congressional District, where Trump previously held a significant victory in the 2024 election. His willingness to support Trump's tariff proposal may relate to his desire to appeal to those voters, balancing party loyalty with the need to address local economic concerns. Overall, Golden's cautious optimism about Trump's tariff policy indicates a rare moment of cooperation between a Democratic figure and the Trump administration. Still, it also underscores the complexities involved in discussions of trade policy, where differing opinions exist within party lines. Further negotiations and refinements will be necessary to ensure that any tariff policies are beneficial to American families and the economy at large.