President Trump’s tariff policies are influencing key races for control of Congress this fall. Congressional correspondent Lisa Desjardins discussed the impact on the midterm elections.
In Michigan, a significant battleground state, there are critical races in both the House and Senate. Four House races are particularly important, with one bordering Canada. The state also features a key Senate race between Republican Mike Rogers and Democrat Abdul El-Sayed. Recently, Mike Rogers launched an ad campaign stating his commitment to manufacturing in Michigan. However, since Trump announced global tariffs last year, Michigan has lost 8,300 manufacturing jobs, facing the third largest tariff cost of any state, approximately $15 billion for the auto industry alone. Republicans are optimistic about their candidates in Michigan, but the economic effects of tariffs are becoming increasingly apparent to voters. A Republican national campaign source indicated that Michigan could be the state where tariffs most significantly impact the election.
In Pennsylvania, another state affected by Canadian tariffs, there are several important House races. One notable race is in Pennsylvania's 10th Congressional District, which includes the Harley-Davidson assembly plant in York County. Canada recently imposed a 50 percent tariff on American-made motorcycles, including Harley-Davidsons. Harley-Davidson had previously announced plans to expand but is now facing challenges due to these tariffs. Congressman Scott Perry, who represents the district, expressed that these tariffs are disappointing and detrimental, making him more vulnerable in his close race. Harley-Davidson declined to comment on the situation.
Additionally, in Kansas, a Senate race that was previously considered a long shot for Democrats is gaining attention. President Trump made a statement regarding Bombardier, a Canadian company with a U.S. headquarters in Wichita, Kansas, employing around 1,200 Americans. This situation could pose a problem for incumbent Republican Senator Roger Marshall, who is facing Democratic Pastor Adam Hamilton. Although Marshall is a well-known incumbent, he is becoming increasingly vulnerable as job loss headlines connect Trump to the issue. Marshall stated that he has reached out to Trump to advocate for jobs.
Overall, the impact of President Trump's trade policies on these midterm races is significant. Several Republican Senate seats are in play, particularly in states like Alaska, Maine, and Texas, which have strong trade ties with Canada. Additionally, farmers are facing challenges due to tariff policies affecting beef. Current trends suggest a shift toward Democratic support, with some Republicans believing that Trump's tariff policy could be beneficial for them.
Lisa Desjardins is a correspondent for PBS NewsHour, covering news from the U.S. Capitol and reporting on how Washington decisions affect local communities.