Senators from Oregon and Washington have strongly criticized the Trump administration’s trade policies, focusing on the harmful effects of tariffs on their states’ export-driven economies. During a recent Senate Finance Committee hearing, lawmakers grilled U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer over the administration’s sweeping tariff measures.
Senator Maria Cantwell of Washington condemned the approach as a “tariff tantrum,” warning that tariffs distort markets and raise costs for families while threatening jobs. She pointed to Washington’s agriculture sector—particularly apple exports—that has suffered from retaliatory tariffs imposed by countries like India. Cantwell called for more collaboration and innovation, rather than punitive trade measures.
Senator Ron Wyden of Oregon echoed the concerns, accusing the administration of lacking a strategic vision. He described the trade actions as impulsive and counterproductive, claiming they’ve alienated both U.S. allies and trade partners like China, while creating economic instability.
In response, Trade Rep. Greer defended the tariff approach, saying it’s part of a long-term plan to correct trade imbalances. He admitted the process won’t deliver results overnight but argued the U.S. economy is strong enough to manage the short-term disruptions.
The exchange highlighted the growing divide between the White House’s hardline trade tactics and lawmakers representing regions that depend heavily on stable international markets.
