Rep. Jimmy Panetta’s Statement on President Trump’s Sweeping Tariffs

Washington, DC – United States Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), a Member of the House Subcommittee on Trade, released the following statement in response to President Trump’s announcement of expansive new tariffs on more than 100 trading partners, including key U.S. allies:

“President Trump’s tariffs will hurt hard-working Americans and abdicate the long-time role of America as the leader of the global trade system.  By imposing these broad tariffs, the highest rates since World War II, President Trump is ignoring the potential economic consequences of shrinking our international trade and slowing growth for domestic businesses, workers, and consumers.  Instead of creating jobs and strengthening our industries, President Trump’s tariffs will most likely raise prices, disrupt supply chains, and invite costly retaliation from our allies and trading partners. 

“The impact of President Trump’s tariffs will be felt locally as our agriculture, technology, manufacturing, and small businesses rely on stable trade relationships and foreign markets.  President Trump’s tariffs will not only shrink those markets but also will invite retaliation and reduce our competitiveness.  As America retreats from global trade relationships, other countries, including China, will happily step forward and fill the void with more bilateral trade deals and regional agreements to suit their own ends, potentially leading to an entirely new global trade structure without the United States. 

“Despite the economic harm caused domestically and the abrogation of the United States leadership on trade internationally, Congress must continue to reclaim our authority over trade as mandated under the U.S. Constitution.  Although it will be difficult with the Trump Administration and obsequiousness of Speaker Johnson’s majority, Congress must continue its fight for responsible trade policies that support working families, stimulate our economy, and bolster the credibility and leadership of our country.”

This week, Rep. Panetta introduced legislation that would modernize outdated trade authorities and ensure that Congress, not the Administration, has the final say when it comes to imposing broad tariffs. 

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