Republicans balk at cost-raising potential of new tariffs on Canada

Republicans aren’t eager to throw their weight behind Trump’s new tariffs on Canada, with some saying it’s a classic Trumpian negotiating tactic — but still worrying the proposed import taxes could bring everyday costs up at a politically crucial time. 

President Trump on Monday announced new 50% tariffs of on Canadian imports in an effort to squeeze the U.S.’s northern neighbor amid negotiations over a long-term trade framework. The items subject to the tariffs include alcohol, dairy, and motor vehicles, as well as a score of other goods and materials.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) suggested to reporters Tuesday that he wanted more information about the grounds for pursuing the new tariffs. 

“I’m not a huge fan of tariffs as a general rule, unless there’s a specific purpose behind it, in most cases, creating a more level playing field for America’s businesses and our economy,” Thune said. “But I don’t, I haven’t heard the rationale for this one just yet.”

Sen. Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) also said he had yet to get a full picture of where the administration was drawing the authority to do tariffs and how they would measure success. 

“My initial concern on it was what the purpose of it was, what the expectation is for, you know, considering a result a success,” Rounds said. “What is the goal of the tariffs? And I haven’t seen which provision within the law he’s utilizing.”

The tariffs, which the administration is justifying as a response to “discrimination” from Canada in trade, come after the Supreme........

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