U.S. Trade Representative Meets Republicans Amid Canada Trade War

U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer met with House Republicans on Wednesday to address an escalating trade war with Canada. The discussions focused on the administration's plan to import 300,000 metric tons of beef and the fallout from 50% tariffs the U.S. imposed on various Canadian goods in late August, which triggered retaliatory tariffs from Canada.

Republican lawmakers expressed divided views during the meeting. Some voiced concern over the economic impact on cattle ranchers and states along the northern border, while others supported the White House position that Canada must initiate de-escalation. Brian Mast, Chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, asserted that the U.S. provided Canada with the best possible deal and that the opportunity remains for Canada to return to the negotiating table.

Relations between the two nations have soured as officials trade accusations. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick accused Canada of playing politics and using the U.S. for political gain. Conversely, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney attributed the breakdown in trade talks to the conduct of the Trump administration, claiming the White House has been "doing memes" and "throwing shade" against his nation.