Ahead of President Donald Trump’s “liberation day” tariffs on Wednesday, members of Congress offered sharply contrasting views of the benefits and drawbacks of applying tariffs on imported goods.

“Liberation day” was eventful, but not just on Capitol Hill: Israel canceled all tariffs on American products, just a day after Canadian trade representatives indicated no retaliatory tariffs would be issued.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum similarly said no “tit for tat” retaliatory tariffs would be imposed, and Ontario Premier Doug Ford offered to negotiate dropping trade barriers on both sides.

For many Republicans, Trump’s tariffs represent a fulfillment of a policy stance he has held for as long he has been in politics.

“Today is an exciting time for the United States,” Rep. Tim Burchett, R-Tenn., said in a statement.

“I support the president’s agenda to put America first and start on a new path of American prosperity. I hope this brings our trade partners across the world to the table for more fair and equitable treatment........

© The Daily Signal