Democratic Representative Expresses Hope in Collaborating with Trump on Tariff Legislation

A moderate Democrat has shown a glimmer of optimism towards President Donald Trump’s approach to tariffs, standing in stark contrast to the frustration echoed by many within his party. Representative Jared Golden from Maine highlighted his previous proposal for a 10% blanket tariff on U.S. imports in a statement where he expressed enthusiasm about Trump’s similar stance.

Golden articulated his views in a detailed statement, emphasizing his readiness to collaborate with Trump to establish this tariff in federal law. In a subsequent interview with Fox News Digital, he stated, “What I can say now is I’m pleased the president is building his tariff agenda on the foundation of a universal 10% tariff like the one I proposed in the BUILT USA Act. This initiative to protect the American economy is a good start toward addressing our persistent trade deficits.”

He conveyed a desire to address the deficiencies within the free trade system, which he claims has enriched multinational corporations while devastating manufacturing communities across the country. Golden emphasized that any implementation of tariffs should be accompanied by policies prioritizing the prosperity of American families.

In an important detail, he noted the introduction of several new tariff policies by Trump, alongside the universal 10% tax, indicating that he needed additional time to assess these changes before providing further insight.

Golden stated, “We need to ensure that the new approach benefits working individuals. This includes supporting unions, trade initiatives, and apprenticeship programs, while also reducing regulatory constraints that hinder production. Furthermore, leveraging tariff revenues to foster domestic manufacturers creating well-paid jobs is essential.” He firmly asserted that tariffs represent the initial step in reforming an unfair trade system but cannot be the only solution.

In a brief interview with Fox News Digital, Golden reiterated his openness to working with Trump to legislate the 10% tariffs at the federal level. He indicated his satisfaction with the inclusion of this tariff in Trump’s broader strategy revealed the previous day. Golden mentioned, “On the reciprocal tariffs, I assume he seeks flexibility. He likely prefers to execute that through an executive order. However, I believe the 10% global tariff should form part of a long-term U.S. strategy. I am hopeful that I can aid the president in rallying congressional support for this measure, potentially bringing it to his desk.”

He further stated his belief that while supportive House Republicans hold significant influence, it is feasible to locate like-minded Democrats backing a 10% global tariff.

While Golden’s views do not signify a complete adoption of Trump’s tariff plan, they undoubtedly resonate more positively than the response of many of his Democratic counterparts. By framing tariffs as a strategic tool, Golden opens a path for dialogue that diverges from the typically critical Democratic narrative.

In contrast, Representative Debbie Dingell from Michigan made a point of caution saying, “I have always asserted that when applied strategically, tariffs are an essential instrument. However, the crucial factor remains ‘strategically.’ I am concerned about the chaotic and abrupt implementation of these far-reaching tariffs.”

Moreover, Representative Gregory Meeks, a senior Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, has committed to introducing a privileged resolution aimed at ending what he refers to as the fabricated national emergency Trump cites to justify the blanket tariff.

Meeks stated, “I will soon move to secure a vote on terminating the national emergency Trump relies on to back these taxes. Republicans cannot keep avoiding this issue — it’s time they reveal their stance on the economic distress Trump is imposing on their constituents.”

Golden’s willingness to diverge from party lines is not unprecedented. Representing Maine’s 2nd Congressional District since January 2019, he secured his seat in an area that Trump won by about 10% in the past election.

The essence of Trump’s proposal involves a 10% blanket tariff on all imports into the United States, along with tariffs reaching up to 50% on goods from both adversaries and allied nations. The plan also introduces reciprocal tariffs aimed at countries that impose taxes on U.S. exports, often at lower rates compared to those enforced by foreign governments.

In statements announcing his plan, Trump proclaimed, “April 2, 2025, will be remembered as the day the American industry was revived, the day America reclaimed its destiny, and the day we began to rejuvenate American wealth.” He urges the nation to look toward a new era of economic strategy that focuses on local industry and job creation.

A New Chapter in American Tariff Policy

As the landscape of American trade policy evolves, Golden’s willingness to engage with Trump signifies a potential shift in bipartisan collaboration on tariffs. While skepticism remains, Golden’s proactive approach may pave the way for discussions that prioritize domestic job creation and manufacturing revitalization over traditional partisan divides.

His call for a balanced policy that supports families and the working class could resonate with both sides of the aisle as economic challenges continue to loom large in the wake of global trade disputes.

The upcoming legislative sessions present a critical opportunity for lawmakers to scrutinize the implications of these proposed tariffs while ensuring that the needs of American families, workers, and small businesses remain front and center in economic discussions.