“President Trump is doing what he does best,” Oregon Gov. Kotek responds after President Trump imposed tariffs she says hurt Oregon families and businesses

Oregon – “President Trump is doing what he does best: driving up costs for families and hurting Oregon businesses that rely on trade,” Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek said as she criticized new tariffs announced by the Trump administration, arguing the policies create uncertainty for workers, farmers, manufacturers, and small businesses.

In a July 21 statement, Kotek said Oregon residents and businesses need economic stability rather than what she described as additional disruption caused by trade disputes.

“Oregon workers, farmers, manufacturers, and small businesses deserve economic stability, not more chaos that makes it harder to compete,” Kotek wrote.

Her comments came after President Donald Trump announced new 50% tariffs on a range of Canadian goods, escalating trade tensions between the United States and one of its largest trading partners. The White House said the tariffs were intended to address what it called unfair treatment of American products, including automobiles, alcohol, and dairy goods, according to The White House.

The new tariffs affect a wide range of Canadian imports, including products such as wine, cement, and other goods, according to federal officials. The administration said the measures were taken under Section 338 of the Tariff Act of 1930 and were designed to respond to trade barriers affecting U.S. businesses.

Kotek argued the policy could have negative effects on Oregon’s economy, particularly for industries that depend on international trade. Oregon has a significant agricultural and manufacturing sector, with businesses that rely on stable supply chains and access to foreign markets.

Supporters of the tariffs have argued they are intended to protect American workers and companies by creating more favorable trade conditions. The Trump administration said the tariffs would help secure better outcomes for U.S. workers, farmers, and businesses while addressing what it described as unfair practices by Canada.

The announcement has drawn criticism from some lawmakers and business groups who warn that tariffs can increase costs for companies importing goods and may eventually affect consumers through higher prices. Kotek echoed those concerns, saying Oregon families and businesses should not face additional economic pressure.

The tariff announcement also intensified disagreements between the United States and Canada. Canadian officials criticized the move, arguing that the tariffs could harm businesses and workers on both sides of the border, AP reported.

The dispute comes as both countries remain closely connected economically, with Canada serving as a major trading partner for the United States. Businesses in sectors ranging from agriculture to manufacturing have been watching the developments closely due to concerns about costs, supply chains, and market access.

Kotek’s remarks reflect broader opposition from some Democratic leaders who have argued that tariffs create economic uncertainty and risk increasing costs for consumers. She said Oregon businesses need predictable economic conditions to remain competitive.

The governor did not announce any specific state actions in response to the tariffs but emphasized the impact she believes trade policies can have on local communities.

As the trade dispute continues, businesses and policymakers across Oregon and the country are monitoring whether the tariffs lead to further negotiations, additional trade measures, or changes in prices for consumers and companies.